BEDFORD TOWNSHIP

Bedford Twp. community garden idea gets initial support

Board backs plan to letresidents grow produce

9/9/2013

TEMPERANCE — A garden may grow in Bedford Township.

A community garden, that is, if the township board follows through with the initial show of support it gave the concept at its regular meeting last week.

Trustee Nancy Tienvieri asked the board to approve the garden idea for next year, when citizens could grow their own produce.

She said a location had yet to be selected, but that she would return to the board for its approval when one was found.

“Tonight we’re just asking for the board’s approval so we can move forward,” she said.

The board unanimously approved of the Bedford Community Garden concept after hearing from Ms. Tienvieri and Kristi Johnson, a supporter of the idea.

Ms. Johnson alleviated board members’ concerns by explaining that the garden would have rules: Participants would have to pay about $30 annually and maintain their plots. Weeds would have to be controlled and gardeners would have to visit their plots at least once a week.

Supervisor Greg Stewart said he would like to open up participation to Bedford High School students.

Such gardens can be found in many communities, including Toledo.

Garnet Francis, the township’s deputy clerk and a park commissioner, said she supported the idea and suggested park commission involvement in its planning.

She ruled out having a community garden in a current township park, but noted that the park commission had other, smaller parcels of property.

In other action, the board approved the appointments of Judith Zech and Jeanie Lutz to the township beautification committee for full terms ending Dec. 3, 2018.