Decatur Farmers Market to remain at temporary location

DECATUR, Ala. (WHNT) – A dispute within the Morgan County-Decatur Farmers Market ranks has been resolved.

Vendors and the market board have been at odds over a temporary location for the market for weeks.

In a meeting on Wednesday, Decatur City Council Member Kyle Pike gathered the two sides in a private meeting in hopes of finding a resolution to a brewing feud regarding the market’s location.

As previously reported, the market moved from its First Avenue location in April where it’s operated for decades. It moved to a temporary spot located on Grant Street while the First Avenue location undergoes a massive overhaul.

Two weeks ago, the board informed the vendors that they would have to move again to a mostly graveled parking lot behind what is described as a modern eatery with better foot traffic.

The vendors garnered support from their customers, who were concerned about the uncertainty of the market’s location.

“I’ve gone to these vendors for years Sharp, Champion, Flint City,” said shopper Phillis Loudiana. “They are faithful, and they have good produce.”

Senior shopper Judy Shelton agreed.

“Where they’re at I know it’s temporary but it’s better than where they are going to because I’ve been there,” said Shelton.

The public outcry influenced the board and market vendors to agree on a resolution paving the way for the market’s return to Grant Street. The author on the market’s social media page wrote in part;

“You spoke, we listened. Your passionate feedback made this possible, and we can’t wait to welcome you back to a vibrant community gathering… Let’s come together to support our amazing vendors and celebrate the heart of our community. We can’t wait to see you there!”

“I appreciate them sticking it out so as long as they are here, I’m going to be here,” said Loudiana.

Robert Champion of Champion Farms told News 19 that he is looking forward to building a good relationship with the board.

“I’ve got trust in some board members, and I would like for them to have some trust in us,” said Champion.

The renovation for the market’s new location on First Avenue is expected to be completed in November.

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