A Galesburg nonprofit organization is seeking a city-sponsored Urban Agriculture Grant to establish a community garden farm on far East Main Street.
The Galesburg City Council on Monday will be asked to approve The Lipanda Foundation’s application for Urban Agriculture Grant in the amount of $25,000.
The Lipanda Foundation will lease a vacant lot formerly known as 2325 E. Main St. from the city for $1 per year if the agreement is approved. Two high tunnel structures would be erected on the site, after proper construction drawings are approved and permits are issued.
The site of the project is located east of the Galesburg Tourism and Visitors Bureau near the I-74 and East Main Street interchange.
Members of the community would be able to rent plots for $20 per month. There will be educational workshops, seasonal seedling sales, and a farm to table market to sell excess produce.
The grant funds will be utilized for startup costs such as installing a water service, crops, and equipment.
City administration recommends approval of the grant which would be paid from the Planning Fund.
The grant request was made by Goretta Kupa with the Galesburg-based Lipanda Foundation.
According the the business plan submitted by Kupa, creating a community-focused garden farm would provide a space for individuals and families to grow their own produce.
The garden farm would offer designated plots where members of the community could cultivate vegetables, fruits and herbs. Additionally, the farm would provide educational workshops, tools and resources for gardening enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.
Galesburg Mayor Peter Schwartzman tells WGIL, “A community garden in the city limits, that is accessible, affordable, and well-managed will enhance our city in many ways. Primarily, it will give an outlet for people to learn how to grow food, provide a place to do it, and improve relations among community members.
“Having traveled across many parts of the Midwest and South visiting community gardens and urban farms, I have witnessed the positive value these entities bring to their neighborhoods and communities. I am excited about the prospects that this project brings to Galesburg.”
Community Garden Farm by WGIL Radio on Scribd
