07/21/2025
Open Letter to Vendors
Dear Vendors and Farmers,
Over the past few seasons, there’s been a growing call from many of you for leadership and change in the structure and management of The Nelson Farmers Markets. Many participants have expressed interest in transitioning from a City-run market to a not-for-profit model, where vendors would have voting rights, a place to voice input, and a meaningful role in shaping the future of our markets.
Our intent to form a new society has been in motion for nearly two years. The City’s recent decision to move the Wednesday Market to Cottonwood and then back to Baker Street accelerated our decision to move forward.
Introduction:
We’re proud to introduce the Nelson Vendors Market Society, (NVMS), a vendor-led, not-for-profit created by and for our market and community.
Our Mission statement:
Nelson Vendors Market Society is a vendor led initiative to produce markets, promote vendors and farmers and support their small businesses.
Our Board is composed entirely of current and former vendors.
We bring with us:
• Experienced market coordinators/Producers (16 years)
• 10 plus years running NFP in the Nelson Area
• Decades of serving on NFPs
• A dedicated bookkeeper
• A professional grant writer
• Strong marketing and social media developer
• Dedicated website developer
• Open door communication policy
Why Now?
The current structure, under the City of Nelson management, presents challenges that many of you have experienced first-hand:
• The City of Nelson’s priorities are understandably focused on the broader municipal concerns – not necessarily on vendors individual needs
• Market decisions can’t be made quickly or collaboratively
• Advertising and promotion are limited
• Communication is often delayed
• Grant opportunities are not available to the City, putting full cost on rising vendor fees
• Vendor voices have little to no influence in decision-making
What We’ve Done So Far:
• Formally established the Nelson Vendors Market Society (NVMS)
• Submitted a delegation request to the City (they have not given us a presentation date, and it may be delayed until October or later)
• Sent letters to the Mayor and two City Councilors, and spoke with them informally in public settings
• Planned to speak at the Committee of the Whole on July 22 — that meeting has since been canceled
• Collected professional letters of support from vendors and community venues
• Spoke directly with vendors to better understand your concerns and ideas for the future
What’s Ahead
In the most recent Nelson City Council meeting, it was confirmed that the market will need to relocate either to Cottonwood or multiple locations over the next few years due to downtown construction. We recognize that this situation is complex and that continued access to City property will require mutual cooperation.
We believe that transitioning the Nelson Farmer Market to a NFP is a necessary first step to reclaim the market’s community spirit and long-term sustainability.
What If the City does not support the NVMS assuming responsibility of the Nelson Farmers Market?
We’re preparing to transition the 2026 KAF Harvest Market under the new NVMS banner. This would include applying for grants to expand the event into a community festival — complete with live entertainment, food trucks, and a proper stage.
This may require a date or venue change, but our priority is to remain within city limits, and we will do everything we can to collaborate with the City in that process. If collaboration is not possible, we will secure a space independently.
Call to Action
We are asking vendors to support this movement by becoming members of the Nelson Vendors Market Society, (NVMS).
Your $10 membership will:
• Show the City of Nelson that vendors want the Farmers Market to return to a vendor-led, not-for-profit model
• Support the Society’s readiness to assume responsibility starting in the 2026 season
• Ensure that your voice is heard in the decisions that directly impact your work and livelihood
• Our united voice puts us at the table as a stakeholder
Help us put markets back in the hands of vendors
Let’s bring the markets back into the hands of those who live and work within them — together to support the Community and Food Security.
Warmly,
The Nelson Vendors Market Society Board
