Discussions

Came across this story by chance scrolling down a news page. Sounds like a big plus for downtown.  
 
https://www.msn.com/en-ca/money/topstories/30m-project-aims-to-build-vertical-farm-long-vacant-historic-building-in-downtown-brandon/ar-AA1icA53?ocid=msedgdhp&pc=U531&cvid=4a78590352c44fa6b2c172ea91aded24&ei=12

Great news for the down town and that building. Based on the article is seems that it will be dependent on raising money and probably tax and government dollars will be part of that money needed. As a designated historic landmark the buyer of the building will be looking for $ from those that designated it historic.  
 
Per the article "Brandon Fresh Farms will raise equity for the project through convertible debentures — a type of long-term debt that can later be converted into stock shares — and other potential investors, along with applying for grants and low-interest loans, Morand said."  
 
Wish them all the best but suggest it will be a bumpy ride!

I think everyone needs to support the idea of VFS as a means of stimulating the economy and encouraging people to maintain a strong connection to local food supplies.  
 
Believe or not, the agriculture community large volumes don't really end up being sold locally. Selling direct probably isn't what most farmers have in mind when the grain hits the bin.  
 
Local markets are too small and small volumes mean higher risk to merchants. Thus you pay more for the smaller bag of grain or vegetables.  
 
I'm not saying the local vertical farms won't sell to large buyers and exclude local farmer's markets, but it is better for the local markets to have them as a local supplier in case California gets floods or drought.  
 
All I guess I get excited about is the horticulture jobs and the potential economic spin of having fresh veggies. Maybe Freshii could come back! That would be exciting. I loved Freshii and hope it returns to Brandon, a city with lots of potential.  
 
Edited by PiEyedSquire, 2023-10-22 03:05:59