DOTHAN, Ala. (WDHN) — With the city of Dothan set to own the Houston County Farm Center, over 30 farmers have rallied together to ask the city to consider plans they have had drawn up for a ‘farm-to-market’ farmers market which would be located on the 42-acre property.
The idea is to bring a modern state-of-the-art farm-to-table operation to the Houston County Farm Center.
This would include a retail market to sell fresh produce and pavilions where farmers can drive up and sell their produce directly to the public. In addition, greenhouses, a processing plant, and freezer storage are also part of the recommendations.
According to one of the people behind the idea, he has met with both city and county leaders about these suggestions.
“I’ve had those meetings, and we hope it’s there, I think the city is on board, that is my opinion on that,” Houston County Commission Chairman candidate, Bobby Lewis said.
According to Dothan’s Mayor, Mark Saliba, the county has until the first of next year to move its offices on the property. However, there is no rush to relocate those facilities.
Under the city and county’s agreement, they have until January 9 of next year to close on the Farm Center. Mayor Saliba said the city will consider any ideas presented and at this time, they aren’t spending time on any specific plans for the center.
“I would encourage the listening audience, to contact the county commission, the city commission, the commission chairman and encourage them to buy into what we are trying to get the citizens to do here,” Lewis said. “That creates a sustainable local food source.”
If ever given the green light, Lewis expects reconstruction could take up to a year and a half. He encourages anyone who has an interest in these ideas to reach out.