Banff council has vowed to support the creation of Town’s second community greenhouse, which will be located on parking spaces not available to staff or the public on Cascade Plaza’s rooftop parkade.
Councillors unanimously passed a motion on Monday (Feb. 11) to offer staff support to the Banff Greenhouse Gardening Society (BGGS) regarding funding and permit applications, as well as logistical support for construction of the new greenhouse.
The Town’s environment co-ordinator, Chad Townsend, made a presentation to council before the decision and pointed out this would be a great opportunity for some Cascade Plaza residents to participate in.
According to the agenda report given to council, the first community greenhouse, located at the Recreation Grounds, was built to “re-establish the fading connection between people and the food they eat by providing an opportunity to grow and harvest affordable, organic produce.”
Back in May 2012, council heard from the gardening society regarding the success of the greenhouse and directed administration to explore ways of helping build a second greenhouse within town.
In October, administration was in discussions with Cascade Plaza managers Matrix Real Estate Services about a potential site for the community greenhouse. Last month, Matrix confirmed a $25,000 contribution to the gardening society as well as agreement that a small portion of the rooftop parkade could be used as the site.
Due to this contribution and another $10,000 Thrive on Wellness grant from Alberta Health Services, administration determined the society to be well positioned to purchase a greenhouse kit, which is estimated at $35,000.
The agenda also noted there might be some interest from other local businesses to help with funding towards the construction of the facility and gardening beds.
Councillor Chip Olver indicated she was very pleased to make the motion to approve the Town’s assistance with this project.
“With this location it couldn’t be better,” said Coun. Leslie Taylor.
“I want to thank Cascade Plaza,” added Mayor Karen Sorensen, who also praised the benefits of private and public partnerships working together.
Coun. Paul Baxter was the only member not present for the meeting.
Like the first community greenhouse, the new facility will function at least six months of the year without heat and electricity to minimize operating costs.
While still in the planning stages, the gardening society could not confirm at this time whether the new facility will be constructed this year, but are confident it will help satisfy a need and encourage others to take part.
“This project has the potential to further enhance the opportunities for growing organic local produce, strengthen interaction amongst community members and increase knowledge around food security and gardening,” the report stated.
