Mayor Harrell Proposes a New Investment for Food Security

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, Thursday September 4, 2025, Lake City Farmers Market

We are excited to share that the Lake City Farmers Market could be expanding in 2026!

Neighborhood Farmers Markets (NFM) was invited by the Mayor’s Office to submit a proposal to extend the market season, and the project has been included in the Mayor’s proposed 2026 budget. If approved by City Council this fall, the expansion would begin in 2026 and bring even more opportunities for farmers, food producers, and the Lake City community.

“We are deeply grateful for the Mayor’s proposal to expand Fresh Bucks, coming at a time when the high cost of groceries is making it harder for families to afford healthy food,” said Jennifer Antos, Executive Director for NFM.

"This support would ease the burden on parents, helps children grow up nourished, and bring dignity and hope to households across our community. We thank the City of Seattle for this commitment and are honored to stand alongside our partners in building a healthier future for every family.”

The proposal would add 15 additional weeks to the market season, extending into the fall months, with potential adjustments to the day of the week to better serve the neighborhood. This investment in Lake City builds on the strong success of our markets citywide — in 2024 alone, NFM markets generated more than $15 million in sales for local farmers and food businesses at our eight markets in seven locations, while shoppers redeemed nearly $1 million in food access benefits such as SNAP, WIC, and Fresh Bucks.

Continue to follow us for more information to come.