Okaloosa County BOCC — January 20, 2015 — Information regarding the Farmer's Market Site — agenda request

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AGENDA REQUEST DATE: January 20, 2015 TO: Honorable Chairman and Members of the Board FROM: Jason Autrey SUBJECT: Information regarding the Farmer's Market Site DEPARTMENT: Public Works BCC DISTRICT: 3 STATEMENT OF ISSUE: Staff was asked to look at options for expansion of the farmer's market in Ft. Walton Beach (adjacent to the fairgrounds). A sketch of an option is included herein and staff requests direction from the Board of County Commissioners regarding any further action. BACKGROUND: Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel asked staff to investigate options for expanding the existing farmer's market. A survey of the existing location and the surrounding property was performed; this included the location of existing features (gazebo, power poles, driveway and trees). A possible location for an expanded market area was developed on the surveyed area with some assumed display table areas. In an effort to mitigate extreme heat, the proposed market location was set within the existing tree canopy, west of the access point to Lewis Turner Blvd. An expanded slab, 30' x 45', would more than double the amount of area available for use. Though plans have not been developed, the concept for an open air pole barn has been considered to provide shelter from direct sun and rain. Preliminary estimates to construct the slab and pole barn (utilizing strictly county staff) total up to approximately $20,000. This value assumes that all layout, design, material purchases and labor would be done with County personnel. Coordination with the City of Ft. Walton Beach would be required as part of this process; this may include structure permitting. Preliminary discussions with City staff have found the City is receptive to the concept of the expansion and relocation. OPTIONS: Staff is seeking direction from the Board of County Commissioners regarding the status of the Farmer's Market. Should the consensus of the Board desire, development of further plans and programming of the construction of the relocated Farmer's Market can be performed. RECOMMENDATIONS: No formal action is required by the Board of County Commissioners at this time. Staff is only seeking the desired direction of the Board. RECOMMENDED BY: APPROVED BY: John Hofstad, County Administrator