Title
Declaring September 17, 2016 as “Community Gardening Day” in the City of Saint Paul.
Body
Whereas, The City of Saint Paul is home to over 133 community gardens; and,
Whereas, community gardens exist in every ward of the City of Saint Paul; and,
Whereas, community gardens provide multiple benefits, including cross-cultural and intergenerational community-building and educational opportunities, horticultural therapy, physical exercise, and access to nutritionally rich and culturally specific foods; and,
Whereas, community gardens beautify our neighborhoods, strengthen block clubs, and enhance community crime prevention efforts; and,
Whereas, the City of Saint Paul is encouraging greater access to healthy foods for all residents through initiatives such as the Saint Paul-Ramsey County Food and Nutrition Commission; and,
Whereas, community gardens in Saint Paul will host open house celebrations for the public on September 17th 2016, giving neighbors and gardeners an opportunity to celebrate community gardening;
Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, that the Saint Paul City Council commends the over 2,500 Saint Paul residents who participate in community gardens for their valuable contributions to our City; and,
Be It Further Resolved, that September 17th, 2016 shall be declared as “Community Gardening Day” in the City of Saint Paul.