Downtown Punta Gorda Farmers Market in limbo after city permit switch

PUNTA GORDA, Fla. (WINK) — A permit change has vendors at the Punta Gorda Farmers Market worried about the future of the iconic downtown staple.

The city is requesting that farmers' markets be discussed at a city council meeting before renewing a year-long permit with the market organizers. For nearly two decades, the market has offered fresh produce, bakery items and artisan goods to the community.

The city acknowledged that the farmers' market has become a regional draw over the last 18 years. The city said the farmers' market will be discussed at a future city council meeting.

Until that discussion, the market will have to renew a permit quarterly. That way, if changes are made at the council meeting, the city can do so without being locked into a yearly permit.

The city did not say what changes could be made or why the farmers' market is now a topic of discussion. Jerry Presseller started the farmers market, and his daughter has helped continue to build it for nearly two decades.

Presseller said without a yearly permit, vendors can't secure a long-term spot they rely on to pay their bills. The market manager is worried that vendors will move their booths elsewhere if the city doesn't issue a permit by May.

"I've got vendors saying, what do I do after August? I need the season to make my living. So I've got vendors right now that are excited. And maybe even thinking about jumping ship to another market just for that reason," Presseller said. "God bless 'em. I hope they don't, but anything is possible."

The farmers' market permit has been solidified until August. Presseller wants answers about a long-term permit by May.

The city has not said when the farmers' market will be discussed in a city council meeting.