Galesburg City Council on Monday night rejected an application for an urban agriculture grant for The Lipanda Foundation to create a community garden farm.
However the dissenting aldermen made clear they support the idea, just not the location east of the Galesburg Tourism and Visitors Bureau and near the I-74 and East Main Street interchange at 2325 E. Main St.
The final vote was 5-2 against approving the grant, with only Dwight White and Sarah Davis voting in favor.
Previously: Grow your own fruits and vegetables at the community garden farm in Galesburg?
Council approved the city’s Urban Agriculture Grant program in February 2023, funded by ARPA dollars.
The Lipanda Foundation was seeking to lease a vacant lot formerly known as 2325 E. Main St. from the city for $1 per year. The plan called for two high tunnel structures would be erected on the site.
Members of the community would be able to rent plots for $20 per month. There will be educational workshops, seasonal seedling sales, and a farm to table market to sell excess produce.
The grant funds will be utilized for startup costs such as installing a water service, crops, and equipment.
Ward 5 Council member Heather Acerra says she loves the “idea of making a garden more accessible” and generally supports the idea but voted no based on the location.
She feels this location is not centrally located, worries about accessibility since there’s no turnaround or parking.
She recommended The Lipanda Foundation work with staff to find another location.
Ward 6’s Davis says the application shows advanced knowledge and planning
City Manager Eric Hanson says he’s not aware of how city staff picked this site, saying it predated his tenure.
Director of Community Development Steve Gugliotta says The Lipanda Foundation chose this site among three provided by city staff in a packet.
