Recognize recurring markets
Create a distinct farmers-market category for organized, recurring outdoor or semi-indoor marketplaces built around producer-direct agricultural products, locally produced foods, plants and regional handcrafted goods.
A MESSAGE FROM NONA
This is personal. It affects my family, my business and our community.
My name is Nona Phelps. I own Eat My Feelings, organize the Surf City Farmers Market, and am a wife and mom of four. I started this market because local small businesses need real opportunities to meet their neighbors, and because Surf City deserves a welcoming Friday-evening gathering.
Depending on the week, approximately 20 to 50 local businesses participate or are represented. Some vendors travel more than 50 miles, bringing their own customers into town to visit other businesses and the brewery.
On September 17, my husband Andrew spoke during public comment while I was working at the Hampstead Farmers Market. The Town's approved minutes record his account of the immediate impact on our family, the participating vendors, our charitable work and the petition. The minutes say the Town Manager asked the Community Development Director to get Andrew information for follow-up.
I attended a September 22 follow-up with Community Development Director Jeremy Smith expecting a conversation about the rules and alternatives. Instead, I was directed to file the proposed change in the Town's system. I did so that day and paid the required filing fee. No interim exception was offered to keep the market running during the review.
At the October 15 work session, Andrew thanked Councilman Andy Pleil for helping bring the issue before Council, but asked again for a temporary path to operate and a meaningful opportunity to address the Town's concerns while the amendment is reviewed.
I appreciate Council considering the issue publicly. What we need next is a workable result that treats community markets consistently and transparently.
From my perspective, approaching the venue and property owner without first speaking with me felt unfair. Because the Town also operates a farmers market, I have concerns about how the rules have been applied. These are my concerns, not proven legal conclusions. I am preparing a public-records request to clarify who was involved, what was discussed and whether alternatives were considered.
— Nona
