In 2007, with the support of Mayor Pete Lewis, other Council colleagues and King County Councilmember Peter von Reichbauer, I was pleased to take on as a personal Council project and challenge the Auburn International Farmers’ Market.

Now in the works, the AIFM will offer local farm fresh food products, some crafts and family events to entertain children and adults alike. It will provide a downtown stimulation and revitalization in conjunction with other planned downtown development in the area and act as a central gathering place and focal point for the community.

Last November we formed a planning group, or steering committee. Thus far, with the printing of this article, we have met 24 times. Mike R. Mason, an Auburn native and product of the Auburn school system, has stepped forward to become our inaugural market manager.

In a unique arrangement, the market is comprised of three cities in a partnership: Algona, Auburn and Pacific, with the City of Auburn acting as lead entity. We have adopted an international theme because of the many ethnic groups within the three cities and region. We have made contacts with nearly 50 vendors and are in the planning stages to obtain commitments for next spring’s opening.

The Sound Transit Station Plaza in downtown Auburn will be the site of the AIFM. We are working out the details and logistics with Sound Transit and King County Metro. Free parking will be available in the Sound Transit Parking Garage adjacent to the market.

The grand opening is planned for Sunday, June 14 and will operate weekly from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Sunday through Sept. 27, 2009.

I am really excited to use my energy and time to promote a healthy and farm fresh environment for the citizens of Algona, Auburn and Pacific and want to invite others to share in the fun. We are always looking for volunteers who want to roll up their sleeves, make a time commitment, and get involved in a worthwhile community activity.

If you fit this description, please contact me at (253) 261-3235 or on the Web at bpeloza@auburnwa.gov.

We are an equal opportunity committee and look forward to hearing from you. Our motto: “Many hands make light work and more fun.”

Bill Peloza serves on the

Auburn City Council.

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