To the Editor: 

I am just as passionate about preserving the character of our downtown as I am about the value of our farmers market. That's why I want to encourage Market Master Alexis Gazy, the Board of Selectmen, the Chamber of Commerce and local business owners to focus their energies on providing the unique products, services and experiences that residents and visitors want rather than blaming each other for the effects of the downturn in the economy, high lease rates and the tough competition from online stores. 

Before the Board of Selectmen decides to relocate the farmers market, let's be certain that we are making it easier, and not harder, for people to patronize the market and downtown businesses.

Assuming we can decrease the market's costs and eliminate the need to solicit sponsorships, let's focus on working with local restaurants to offer lunch specials that will encourage families to stay and shop in town. That would be a great start based on the current feedback that residents would like more food and drinks at (or near) the market.

Maybe the next phase of the proposed lamps along Main Street and Elm Streets should mark the pathway from Center School Lot to Elm Street to encourage people to park away from the congestion and stroll to town.

Please come to the upcoming Board of Selectmen meeting on April 27 at 9 a.m. in the board room of Town Hall to show your support for the farmers market and share your ideas.  

Together, we can develop mutually beneficial partnerships that will enable those of us who live, work and shop in New Canaan to preserve the farmers market and the downtown area.

— Cobie Graber, Nourish New Canaan