JazzVibe

Earlier this week, the Somerset County Farmer's Market announced it would be shutting down, but just a few days later there is optimism the market will be back.

The farmers’ market was a staple in the community for 17 years.

Somerset resident Art Holme said, “Farmers markets are notorious for bringing people together, offering people just a fun outing so they're great for family.”

Local business owner Meagan Richter is even willing to have a mini farmers’ market of her own on the covered porch at her business, Heirloom Pines Custom Bakery and Coffee Shop.

“Whenever we found out that they had decided that they were going to close the farmers’ market it was heartbreaking not only to me but to a lot of the local people that look forward to every Saturday to go to the markets and to support the farmers,” Richter said. “Instantly I thought, well we have to try to do something.”

The community outcry could turn around the fate of the somerset county farmers’ market.

“It's been stated by more than a few people via phone calls, social media, every way possible and the feedback has been we need this market,” Somerset County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Rod Aldom said,

“I think everybody sees the market as that's who we are”, Aldom said. “It kind of exemplifies somerset county.”

Aldom said there has been significant process the past few days.

“I can say that we're exploring it very quickly and going through the process of trying to find the best location for the future,” Aldom said.

Somerset Trust investment officer Ian Mapes said, “what felt like a very daunting task just this time a week ago all of a sudden feels very possible. There's definitely a lot of want and optimism for this.”

Officials also tell me that the return of the market is not finalized yet, but they are trying to find the best location for the market’s future.

Richter said, “The farmers support us, we need to support them.”

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