When coming up with a new vision for the Greenbank Farm, commissioners for the Port of Coupeville are clear on one thing. They want and need help from the public.
During a special meeting held at the farm last week, commissioners discussed the need for ideas and support in moving forward, raising a call to action for those wanting to be involved.
One of the most viable ideas, they said, is creating a Friends of the Port or a Friends of the Wharf and Farm group.
“There are lots of people who want to be a part of the farm or the wharf and haven’t had an opportunity,” said Commissioner Mike Diamanti.
By forming a nonprofit, the group could collect donations and, as a group, decide how the money should be spent to benefit the port.
Some asked why there couldn’t be two groups, one to support the wharf and one to support the farm. It can be whatever you want it to be, the commissioners responded.
“But I see the two groups of people coming together,” said Commissioner William Bell.
Prior to being sworn into office, Bell said he had worked with another existing nonprofit on the island that would be willing to support the creation of a friends group by collecting the donations until it gets up and running and becomes an official nonprofit.
Bell said he’s gotten as far as he can with that until he can get volunteers to start the group.
The idea of having a group also run events at the farm was thrown out by Bell, but quickly vetoed by the crowd.
During a prepared presentation, Bell stressed the importance of having proper signage and marketing at the farm. He pointed out the farm’s signs along the highway, all in varying degrees of disrepair.
“We shouldn’t let these signs go another day,” he said.
Tenants and other crowd members said the signs are indicative of the disrepair the farm is in. They asked whether there the port should develop a clear vision and direction before deciding things like signage and logos.
“There’s a whole lot of deferred maintenance,” said Port Executive Director Forrest Rambo. “We’re asking for your ideas but also your patience.”
Others also asked about where they can donate to the farm. Bell said he’s received confirmation the port can receive cash donations, but Rambo said he has not been able to confirm that as of this week.
The port is also asking those interested in being involved with planning for the farm to contact Rambo. If anyone has particular areas of interest — for example, events, marketing or fundraising — they should specify those interests.
Rambo can be reached by email at executivedirector@portofcoupeville.org.
