The pizza vendor sold out. Both pie vendors sold out. The egg lady sold out of 25 dozen eggs. The cookie vendors sold out. Every vendor was happy, the customers were happy. It couldn't have been better. (Well maybe it could have, if it were less damp, but it never really rained between 5:00 and 7:00)
People came early and stayed late. It was an event. I watched our neighbors stop and visit with each other. I couldn't have been prouder. The tables and chairs were always full with people eating and talking. Young and old listened to live music. Kudos to Mayor Louise From for her tireless organizational efforts. Additional kudos to Pastor Matt Paul and the St. Andrew Session for agreeing to let the city host the market on their property.
I saw people enjoying themselves tonight who have been opposed to re-developing the St. Andrew Church site. Much of their opposition has been to a mixed use commercial and residential development. Maybe tonight was a gentle persuader of what could happen for our town if we had a small commercial center...
St; Andrew was not the first choice for the market location. Since the University Club is closed Mondays, Mayor From went to the University of Iowa first to ask if the market could be there. The University politely declined, citing liability risks that they didn't want to incur. I hope that people consider this as we move forward in looking at this property. If it is developed privately we will control how it develops, AND the city would reap the tax benefits of private property. If the University ends up owning the parcel we lose all control and potential revenue.
NEXT MARKET JULY 2nd! Come be a part of great event!
Sorry we couldn't make the market, but we are out of town. It sounds like a great success. We are excited to see such community spirit being built, and hope we can do more of these kinds of things. A Community Center will certainly help in that endeavor.
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