By Zackery Liberty
The nights are still cold in Ottawa, but every day we see a little bit more snow melting in the warm sun. Around the region, maple syrup producers are tapping the last of their trees in anticipation of sap flow, lambing season is wrapping up and growers are finalizing their crop plans. Here in the ByWard Market, the Ottawa Markets team is bubbling over with anticipation for the start of the market season this spring.
This year will be an exciting one for Ottawa Markets, as last year saw some big changes in our public-market program. Not only did we launch our popular Parkdale Night Market, York Street Farmers’ Market, and community pop-up markets, but 2021 also saw a significant regulatory change for our young corporation.
At the November 10 meeting of Council, the City formally repealed the two previous (and outdated) market bylaws and replaced it with one “Ottawa Markets” bylaw, By-law # 2021-331. What does this mean? It means that the Ottawa Markets corporation is now fully authorized to establish, review and update its own policies. This will allow us to truly begin working towards our mandate and mission, established in 2018, to create thriving public markets and inviting public spaces.
While policy development is never sexy, here are just a few of the policy pieces that we’re most excited about, and what we think they mean for our markets:
Transparency: Over the next few years, we are going to be working towards establishing greater trust between vendors and customers. Customers deserve to know exactly what they are buying when they shop at a market, and we are excited to see that trust grow into successful small businesses with supportive and loyal customers.
Business development: Speaking of successful small businesses, public markets are the ultimate incubators for new farmers and small businesses. We aim to ensure that our markets offer a low-barrier entry point for vendors to develop and establish a thriving business free from the overhead necessary to sell in large retail outlets. This allows for more engaged, creative and sustainable production models that focus on quality rather than on price alone.
Active community spaces: Ottawa Markets works with community partners, event organizers and neighbours to bring dynamic, exciting and inclusive events and activities to our most cherished public spaces. We’re looking forward to a busy summer!
Market city: Looking around our city, there are many incredible markets. Farmers’ markets, flea markets, craft markets, art shows; the list goes on. These markets are all operating independently, and often in isolation. Managers or volunteers have to learn how to navigate City permits, public health requirements and insurance requirements with little support. Ottawa Markets envisions a City Market strategy that would highlight the best of the region while minimizing the costs and regulatory hurdles required to start and operate markets. With the framework and values above, we’re excited to see our markets grow as active community spaces that showcase the best of Ottawa. We can’t wait to see more signs of spring, and hope that you are as excited as we are for the return of summer vending. Here’s to a fantastic year! #OttawaLove
Zackery Liberty is communications director at Marché Ottawa Markets