Public comment on the record
Andrew explained the impact on our family, participating vendors, charities and other Surf City businesses, and asked the Town to identify a lawful path forward.
Why this still matters
This is personal. It affects my family, my business and my community.
My name is Nona Phelps. I am the owner of Eat My Feelings and the organizer of the Surf City Farmers Market. I am also a wife and a mom of four.
Last night, my husband Andrew spoke during public comment while I was working at the Hampstead Farmers Market. I had to be there because these markets are part of how I help support our family and our four children. Andrew went to the Council meeting so our concerns and the impact on other vendors could still be put on the public record.
I did not start this market as a political project. I started it because small businesses need places to meet customers, and because I believed Surf City could have a Friday-evening market that felt like a community gathering instead of just another transaction.
Depending on the week, roughly 20 to 50 local businesses participate or are represented. Some vendors travel more than 50 miles to participate and promote the market to their own customers, helping bring additional visitors into Surf City and the surrounding area.
I am encouraged that the Town has now agreed to sit down with me. That is the kind of direct conversation I had hoped would happen from the beginning. I appreciate Mayor Batts asking staff to meet, and I intend to approach Tuesday's meeting in good faith while continuing to document what happens next.
— Nona
