Public Hearing Set on Farmers Market

City officials have set Dec. 10 for a public hearing on an ongoing dispute over the farmers market at Dana Point Plaza unless its manager and nearby merchants can settle their differences before then.

Merchants have complained that the market in its current location causes traffic, noise and trash problems that interfere with their businesses.

Some have also objected to the market’s flower stands, which they say are operated by wholesalers who can sell at far lower prices than nearby retailers.

“If we can’t address both of those [issues], then I don’t see how we can have a farmers market,” Mayor Karen Lloreda said.

After hearing from both the market’s manager and nearby merchants, the City Council this week asked the two sides to try to reach an agreement without city intervention.

The market, held from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, features about 30 independent farmers who sell produce and flowers. Its manager is Rick Heil, who has operated it since last year.

Steve Welton of nearby Hennessey’s Tavern said the merchants are not against having a market; they just want it to open on a different day. “The issue has always been parking,” he said. Merchants would prefer a weekend day, he said.

City officials acknowledged that as the farmers market has grown in popularity, traffic in the area has become more congested.

Heil said Dana Point residents have indicated they support the market and want it to continue.