The Oak Park village board approved several changes on Monday to the local farmers’ market.
Changes to the outdoor venue, which runs each year from May to October, include stipulating that only growers and producers from Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana and Iowa can sell products at the market. The village will also eliminate local florists and local retailers from getting a spot there, while creating new categories for “cheese maker” and food demonstrations at the market.
The village board approved the changes in a 6-1 vote on Monday. Village Trustee Ray Johnson voted no, arguing that there should be a place at the market for local retailers. He urged village staff to continue pursuing a midweek market that could take place in downtown Oak Park and allow participation by local businesses.
-Marty Stempniak
