To those speaking out against a downtown farmers market location, I’d like them to consider the following:

As residents of an island, we have few buttons to push to encourage economic start-ups here. The existing farmers’ market has been just such a small business engine. Several successful town businesses began at our Saturday Markets – e.g.: Market Chef, Café Demeter, Bakery San Juan and now Pablito’s Taqueria.

A market and events facility on Nichols Street will also benefit surrounding businesses and help our downtown thrive.

Here is an opportunity to come together in support of strengthening our local economy – let’s not waste it on petty bickering. The farmers have agreed that the Nichols Street location is the best. I say let’s join them in their efforts.

Lee Sturdivant
Friday Harbor