Local Business Owner Requests Farmer’s Market Locale Change

May 23, 2025 |

Photo – Example of a farmer’s market – Bigfoot99 file photo

In Saratoga, officials will permit food trucks to operate on Bridge Avenue during farmers markets, provided they do not pose a safety risk.

For the past several years, Saratoga residents have hosted a summer farmers market on Sundays at the Saratoga Museum, later relocating to the Town Hall parking lot.

At the May 20th Town Council meeting, Marie Christen, owner of Sweet Marie’s Mercantile, requested approval to change the date and location of the markets. Christen proposed having vendors set up around her business, located near the corner of Bridge Avenue west of Highway 130.

Additionally, Christen requested authorization to block off the parking spots in front of her business for food trucks. The event organizer assured the governing body that the trucks would remain out of the flow of traffic, serving customers on the sidewalk.

Christen said she hopes changing to Saturdays and adding food trucks will boost foot traffic and sales for all businesses in the area.

Mayor Chuck Davis expressed his concern about the inclusion of food trucks. Mayor Davis explained that Bridge Avenue is a busy street, especially on Saturdays. The trucks may impede traffic, the mayor said.

Marie Christen shared the mayor’s concerns. According to her estimates, three or four food trucks could fit in the parking area in front of Sweet Marie’s Mercantile, remaining completely clear of the roadway.

Christen said she considered having the food trucks park outside of Town Hall. However, the event organizer said she wanted the trucks to be a part of the farmers market and avoid the need for attendees to cross the busy highway.

Christen said she is in talks with other Bridge Avenue business owners to take advantage of the increased foot traffic the farmers market is likely to attract.

Saratoga Police Chief John Moore said closing the parking spots in front of Sweet Marie’s Mercantile is not a problem. Chief Moore said he was mainly concerned about the food trucks obstructing visibility, making it more dangerous for pedestrians to cross the road.

Mayor Davis acknowledged a Saturday farmers market is likely to draw more people to Bridge Avenue, boosting sales at local businesses. The Mayor proposed a test run, giving event organizers and the Saratoga Police Department time to assess any potential issues the food trucks may cause.

Police Chief Moore expressed his support for the trial period.

The Saratoga Town Council unanimously voted to temporarily allow food trucks to park outside of Sweet Marie’s Mercantile during farmers markets. The governing body will revisit the matter during their June 17^th meeting to discuss any concerns.

The Saratoga farmers market takes place on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. outside Sweet Marie’s Mercantile at 111 West Bridge Avenue, running from June through August.