Label
DPW05262026COMMUNITYGARDENS2%FUNDS
Water Distribution
Todd Saums & Cindy Geronimo (x2832 & x2363)
Revised
Title
Approving the use of the Water Infrastructure Development Fund (2% Water Fund) to pay the cost of installing water infrastructure for community garden locations inside the City of Toledo upon the recommendation of the Director of Public Utilities; appropriating and expending $50,000 from the unappropriated balance of the Water Infrastructure Development Fund; and declaring an emergency.
Body
SUMMARY & BACKGROUND:
The City of Toledo Community Garden Water Program expands access to reliable water infrastructure to support sustainable urban agriculture and address food access challenges across the community in collaboration with Toledo GROWs, Ohio State University Extension Service, and the Center for Innovative Food Technology. The program installs permanent water infrastructure at qualifying garden sites, including a tap, service line, meter pit, remote-read meter, backflow prevention device, and hose connection, removing a key barrier to sustaining community gardens by providing reliable water access and eliminating the need for temporary or manual solutions. The program provides a cost-effective way for residents to access fresh, healthy food while strengthening neighborhood connections and improving overall community well-being and supports economic development through education, job training, and small-scale urban agriculture opportunities. Funding in the amount of $50,000 will support approximately ten (10) community garden locations, with installation costs estimated at approximately $5,000 per site depending on site conditions, with locations prioritized based on community impact and need. Participants are responsible for establishing water accounts, paying ongoing usage costs, and maintaining the installed infrastructure.
Summary
NOW THEREFORE Be it ordained by the Council of the City of Toledo:
SECTION 1. That, pursuant to ...
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