In defense of the new Community Gardens

GRF DIRECTORS COLUMN

By Donna Gambol

GRF Director

In recent weeks, GRF staff has been the subject of criticism on social media regarding the handling of the Mini Farms, which were recently renovated and reopened as the new-andimproved Community Gardens.

From the beginning, the GRF Board had the responsibility for the project. The board voted to retain and improve the amenity. The GRF Executive Director and staff carried out the plan approved by the GRF Board.

In answer to complaints about soil quality, Mini Farm soil has always been the responsibility of the individual plot owner—gardeners enhance and amend the soils to their particular planting needs. Many gardeners are installing raised flower beds and green boxes.

The expense associated with the Community Gardens was one-time only (paid from GRF capital funds, not operations or reserves). Further, maintenance and upkeep of the gardens will be underwritten by income generated from the annual lease holders (resident gardeners).

Pro-rated out over a 25-year period, the Community Gardens’ initial expense of $478,769.53 to clear the land, survey, soil test, and install a detailed irrigation grid comes to less than $20,000 per year—or one of the most affordable amenities in Leisure World. Again, this was a one-time only expense.

The Community Gardens are available via lease arrangement to approximately 248 residents, about the same number of discrete residents who use the pool, golf course, pickleball, etc.

The lease period is restricted. When the lease period is over, the gardener must give up his or her space and go to the end of the wait list, if there is one.

At this writing 72 spaces are available. To those who argue that “not everyone can use the gardens,” that is true.

However, everyone is welcome to visit them, as gardeners frequently share their bounty on the community table. Most of the time, the Community Garden is idle, as plants grow silently; though most any gardener will welcome visitors who would like to assist with planting, watering, and especially weeding. Just walk by a garden and offer your assistance. You will quickly learn that our mini farmers are as open to your assistance, inquiries and involvement as any other amenity here in Leisure World.