Ms. Zimmerman provided a presentation on the Urban Agriculture Strategy and spoke to the rationale, strategy approach, benefits, community engagement, and action pathways.
Melanie Kramer, Citizen Member inquired about the funding. Ms. Zimmerman responded that funding is provided through a multi-year grant with Ecosource and through the regular budget process and currently seeking other grant opportunities for future growth.
Alice Casselman, Community Group Representative suggested educational programs regarding food from the garden and the exploration of extending the initiative to schools. Arielle Navarro, Ecosource Representative responded to Ms. Casselman's suggestion and spoke to the free workshops that Ecosource offers through field to table programs and will share future opportunities with the Committee. Ms. Zimmerman also responded to Ms. Casselman and spoke to the educational programs and workshops that are offered.
Councillor Mahoney spoke to a food bank in his Ward called Eden for Change and the programs they offer.
Councillor Dasko suggested expanding community gardens to include hydro fields. Ms. Zimmerman responded to Councillor Dasko's suggestion and spoke to future expansions. Ms. Navarro also responded to Councillor Dasko's inquiry and spoke to Ecosource current endeavours and suggested continuing the conversation offline. Alice Casselman, Community Group Representative suggested including gardens on dead end streets.