Vendors at the Vernon Farmer’s Market (VFM) are feeling the pressure as fees continue to soar. They’ve expressed deep concern over recent price hikes, which many believe is unfair.
Robyn Danielsson, a local advocate, has voiced strong feelings about this situation. She thinks the city council should be embarrassed by how much they’ve increased rates for vendors. “Families in our community worry about how to afford healthy food while trying to support local businesses,” she stated. The ongoing U.S.-Canada tariff conflicts only add to these fears.
Statistics show that vendor fees at the market have skyrocketed. For instance, in 2022, the annual lease for a parking spot was around $3,829. In 2023, it jumped to about $11,166—a whopping increase of almost 200%. Costs are set to rise even more, reaching over $33,000 by 2033. This trajectory isn’t just a local problem; it mirrors a broader trend as many local markets across North America deal with rising operational costs.
The VFM operates twice a week from April to October, located in the Kal Tire Place parking lot, which is city-owned. Vendors rent stalls on a yearly or multi-year basis, and recently, the city has pushed for a 10-year lease starting in 2024. This long-term commitment comes with concerns about increased fees and sustainability for many small businesses.
Rachelle Zelaney, president of the VFM and owner of Zelaney Farms, emphasized the market’s non-profit status. “We don’t feel valued by the city,” she said. This sentiment highlights a disconnect between municipal policies and community needs.
Danielsson pointed out that a year ago, the average family might not have thought much about these price increases since they could turn to U.S. produce. But with rising costs and tariffs, the landscape has shifted. “What seemed manageable before is now daunting,” she noted.
Experts in local economies warn that such steep increases can drive customers away and hurt local agriculture. Supporting local farmers not only helps the community but contributes to a more sustainable food system. According to a recent survey by the National Farmers Market Coalition, 70% of consumers prefer to buy from local markets when prices are reasonable.
Understanding these dynamics is crucial. As prices continue to fluctuate, it’s essential to consider how local decisions impact the health and vitality of the community. For ongoing updates about food pricing and local market conditions, check resources like the Canadian Agricultural Economics Society or recent community surveys on consumer preferences.
Check out this related article: Kelowna-Lake Country-Coldstream MLA Responds to Growing Demand for By-Election: What You Need to Know
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