02/13/2024
To All of our Vendors and Supporters over the past 3 years.
We unfortunately are writing this to inform you that we will no longer be able to host the Market on the Square in Downtown, Temple.
As many have known, we have had continuous discussions with the City of Temple regarding the current space that we have utilized for the Market. The past two years we have struggled to convince them to allow us to operate in that space – an unexpected challenge given the original purpose of that space.
For those who are not aware, the City Hall Parking Lot and Poteet Building were chosen for the central visibility, ease of access and the fact that there is power as well as restroom facilities all in one location. Currently there is no other space within Downtown that provides all these amenities. The city currently has plans to expand the City Hall building, therefore taking away the availability for events to be hosted in that space. We do know they have plans to redevelop the old Temple Feed Store location, which they purchased recently, into a Farmers Market style facility. We have not been involved in the discussions how this facility will be operated, but considering how The Yard Foo Truck Plaza has been handled, we can only hope for the best.
The goal of the TSBC was to create and provide community event opportunities as well as become a voice for small businesses in our area while fostering a collective attitude between our City Government and Business Owners. We feel that we succeeded with the community events goal, but struggled to gain traction and committed support for the advocation of small businesses here in Downtown Temple. We are hopeful that someone or some group of people are able to take up the task of advocating for the cooperation and collaboration of small businesses that we have seen be successful in other Cities in our area. We encourage all of you to get involved with your council members and hold our elected officials accountable in properly representing their constituents and our City for the future growth and prosperity.
I have been honored to meet so many great people through this venture and look forward to seeing you all throughout the community. - JD