Tumwater Planning Commission endorses food system plan

The Tumwater Planning Commission endorsed a food system plan aimed at reducing food insecurity and promoting local food production, recommending it to the City Council. The commission discussed the plan during a meeting on September 23, where supporters praised its emphasis on healthy food access. Despite the positive feedback, concerns were voiced about the plan's promotion of urban agriculture, with one resident arguing it contradicts the Growth Management Act. The plan includes recommendations for assisting farmers in accepting SNAP payments and highlights the SNAP Ed program as a valuable resource. However, the Executive Director of the Thurston County Food Bank noted impending budget cuts to SNAP funding.

Suggestions for partnerships emerged, including support for the Tumwater School District to source food locally. The Washington State Department of Agriculture’s Farm to School Program was cited as a successful model for such initiatives. The plan has been sent to the city council for further consideration.