Consumers Energy has finalized a one-year lease for the city-owned parking lot on North River Road in Mount Clemens, a decision that will temporarily displace the Mount Clemens Farmers Market. The lease, approved by the Mount Clemens City Commission on December 1, 2023, is intended to facilitate gas infrastructure improvements in the nearby area.
The parking lot has long served as the home for the Farmers Market, which operates for seven months each year. City officials expedited the lease approval process after being contracted by Consumers Energy, leaving little time for consultations with the Farmers Market board. City Manager Gregg Shipman noted that the farmers had expressed a desire to remain in their current location, stating, “They don’t want to change anything.”
Plans for the Farmers Market include relocating to a parking lot behind the Anton Art Center in downtown Mount Clemens starting in 2026. City administrators indicated that they would waive the organization’s typical $2,000 lease fee to support the farmers. However, many farmers were unaware of these plans and expressed surprise upon learning about the potential move through media reports.
The Farmers Market has been a fixture on North River Road for over two decades, becoming a local landmark with its distinctive shed known as the Red Barn. One anonymous farmer remarked, “We’ve been on North River Road for 20 years and everyone knows where we are now.” The market is recognized for offering fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan items directly from farmers to consumers.
Earlier this year, the Farmers Market had been alerted to the possibility of relocation due to an inquiry from the Great Lakes Water Authority about renting the same lot for a construction project. Fortunately for the farmers, the Authority identified an alternative location, allowing them to remain at their established site.
Now, with Consumers Energy’s lease, the utility will pay $104,000 for the year, with an option to extend the agreement on a month-to-month basis for $8,000 per month. City officials argue that this agreement will generate revenue for the city and enhance marketing for local produce, which could benefit shoppers and local economy.
Concerns remain regarding the impact of the Farmers Market’s relocation. The market typically attracts around 500 vehicles each Saturday from May through November, contributing significantly to local businesses. Farmers are questioning whether the proposed downtown location can adequately accommodate their usual setup of approximately 40 booths and tents.
Commissioner Jill Towner Yore expressed her disappointment that the farmers were not consulted before the vote on the lease agreement. She emphasized the importance of including stakeholders in discussions that affect their operations. “I was concerned about voting on something when the city hadn’t brought in the stakeholders together to understand,” she stated.
In response to these concerns, Mayor Laura Kropp assured that the Farmers Market would benefit from increased foot traffic in the downtown area. She noted that the organization would be situated within the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), which could provide additional support.
The aesthetic impact of increased traffic due to the gas infrastructure work is also a concern for some local residents and officials. As discussions continue, the city administration is prepared to engage with Consumers Energy to address any potential complaints.
As the Farmers Market prepares for its transition, farmers and community members remain hopeful for a resolution that will allow them to maintain their presence and continue serving the community in the years to come.
