Community allotment gardens a go

Coun. Norm Arsenault was hoping for one of the garden plots Monday night, if the town approved a community allotment garden, as requested by resident Julian Trachsel.

Councillors gave their approval for the project, but it has turned out to be such a popular idea, Arsenault discovered, there are no plots left to be had — they’ve all been reserved.

Town staff have reduced the number of plots Trachsel was hoping to rent out, to just 32, with two larger, raised plots. 

If it goes well there could be a second phase next year with an increase in the number of allotments. And Trachsel has already allocated plots, mostly to people who have supported him and donated funds for the project, he told councillors. He expects to have a waiting list, which is not at all unusual for community gardens, he added.

When Trachsel spoke to councillors in August, he asked for a location on town property, with access to water and a faucet.

He was pleased with the location the town is providing, in Newark Park, with an entrance from Niven Road, but was surprised to hear the recommendation in the staff report that “all costs be the responsibility of the garden group, through the garden coordinator,” who is Trechsel.

That would include $5,500 for the water and faucet installation. He asked for “a 50-50 split if not 100 per cent” be paid by the town, otherwise, “I’d have no cushion for unexpected operating costs” throughout the season.

He has a list of rules and regulations for a consistent garden appearance, to be monitored by volunteers, Trachsel told councillors, including a three-foot wire mesh border to keep the bunnies out — no other size or design will be accepted.

As for deer, he is keeping his fingers crossed and hoping for the best that they don’t get into the allotments — a chain link fence around the area is too expensive, he said, and he has no other solution.

He has pledges of $20,200 to cover the start-up costs, he told councillors, and he has looked for grants that might be applicable, but has had no luck so far.

He has several reasons for wanting the project to proceed, including that it will further public engagement, will encourage people to spend more time outside, staying fit and having fun, and it “converts part of a little-used green space to be more creatively used, and more environmentally friendly.”

He is also hoping it will encourage children to learn about food sources.

The town property that is being provided will allow for 32 10’ by10’ plots, plus two 5’x10’ raised beds for those with mobility issues. He had originally hoped for 70 plots, but is now hoping for a sustainable project that can grow.

Although the staff report said there is no funding available for the community allotments, Arsenault made a motion that the town cover the $5,500 for water and faucets from the capital reserves, which was unanimously approved.

However, Trachsel warned, some of those who contributed to the $20,200 in pledges have said their donation depends on the garden being ready for this year’s planting season, and although parks and recreation director Kevin Turcotte said he couldn’t guarantee that, he would do his best to make it happen.

For more information, Trachsel can be reached at [email protected]