Community volunteers gathered Thursday night to discuss further improvements to the Houston Farmers Market and receive an update on a project to rehabilitate the Melba Theatre in downtown Houston.
Downtown Houston Inc. hosted the meeting at the Houston Visitor’s Center to receive input on several projects:
•Bids will be sought for construction of a new roof on a building north of the Houston Farmers Market. The group earlier received a $30,000 grant for refrigeration equipment and shades for the plaza awning. Once the roof is installed, development of farmers market space and a commercial kitchen are planned. Some space will be used by the Friends of the Library Book Store.
•Signage for the Houston Farmers Market will be put in place that advertises hours, highlights rules and recognizes donors for the creation of the plaza project.
•The organization has received a USDA Rural Development grant for purchase of a high tunnel for use by Master Gardeners and inmates at the Texas County Justice Center. The equipment will lengthen the growing season, where there already is a garden. The outlay totals about $7,500. The group is working with the county commission.
•It was reported that paperwork was submitted last month under a new federal initiative that would allow for additional promotion for the farmers market and helping vendors.
•Work continues on receiving contributions for the renovation of the Melba Theatre. The group was awarded state tax credits under the Neighborhood Assistance Program. Eligible donors receive 70 cents of state tax credit for every $1 donated — Plus the full donation is eligible as a charitable contribution on federal returns. Several fund-raisers also were discussed. A Melba Theatre T-shirt is now available. For a $25 contribution, donors receive one. They are available at Houston City Hall. The organization also will have a booth at the Texas County Fair-Old Settlers Reunion.
To learn more about the projects, check melbaperformingartscenter.com