Even though the Puslinch community forums may now be part of the past, it does not mean local residents are lacking in ideas.
Alluding to the township’s recent community forums, Diane Williamson offered a number ideas for future thinking for the township.
“As a consumer I have become very concerned about the intensive farming practices that provide food found in most grocery stores. I love living in the country and for the past two years I have sought safe local alternatives [for food].
Williamson was also very pleased with the new Puslinch farmers market earlier this year.
Originally from Toronto, Williamson said her family and friends still there wish they had better access to some of the many benefits in the country – including local food.
She suggested that with Puslinch being one of the closest areas to the GTA, future plans could capitalize on its offerings of local food and country experiences by means of a marketing campaign to get the word out.
Other ideas proposed including offering the ability of city folks to lease land to grow their own food or have a larger scale community garden.
Williamson also offered the potential of teaming local 4H clubs with city youth as mentors and use European models to offer farm vacations.
She added part of the marketing concept could promote Puslinch as “local food for the GTA.”
As council discussed the Williamson’s letter, Mayor Dennis Lever said there were some good ideas within the letter.
He also alluded to an email from Matthew Bulmer regarding the Puslinch Farmers Market.
“We’ll be hearing more about that in the next few months as well,” Lever said.
