Tuscaloosa County Commission Moves Forward On New Fosters Farmers Market

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Tuscaloosa County Commission on Wednesday began conversations regarding the construction of a new farmers market in the Fosters community.

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The measure was raised by District 4 Commissioner Reginald Murray and did not see his initial motion for funding make it to a vote, due to lingering questions from the commission.

The Commission did, however, unanimously approved a measure for County Attorney Robert Spence to proceed with seeking a legal opinion relating to bid law, along with approving a request for quote to begin the bid process.

The initial motion that was withdrawn also called for the county's Public Works to construct a slab to facilitate construction in Braughton Park, which would save the county approximately $40,000, according to County Engineer Scott Anders.

Fosters resident Heather Miller, one of the organizers advocating for the new farmers market, told the Commission that a business plan has already been drafted, along with the selection of a board of directors.

"We desire to support each other in our endeavors and make money to support our own families," she said.

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However, Tuscaloosa County Probate Judge Rob Robertson raised questions about the entity classification of the group that would be managing the farmers market, which has yet to officially secure nonprofit status, along with what agreements would need to be worked out with Tuscaloosa County Park & Recreation Authority and insurance for the proposed facility.

While the funding was not approved, the Commissioners did appear to voice support for the overall concept.

"I think y'all have a really compelling plan and exciting opportunity, but before we go off and just build, I want to make sure we have everything ready to go," Robertson said.

Murray initially called for $50,000 in District 4 community development funding to finance construction of the prefabricated pole barn. Overall, the estimated building cost is $62,000, with the County Engineer's office using the Northport Farmers Market as a model.

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