These figures from Farmers' Markets Ontario are evidence that these community-based ventures have carved out a tidy little spot for themselves with consumers.

At last, local shoppers are able to see what the fuss is all about. The Midland Farmers' Market kicked off for the season this past Sunday behind the Huronia Mall. Coldwater's began May 16 at the village's historic mill, while Penetanguishene's new community market begins this Saturday at the Town Dock.

According to the committee behind the Penetanguishene initiative, councillors were "incredibly supportive" of the undertaking, immediately understanding the potential benefits to the town.

Some members of Midland council, unfortunately, appeared slow to grasp that concept. Rather than working with organizer Adriana Strimaitis to make it happen, many seemed more inclined to erect a wall of negativity. Wrong location, they said. Not enough parking. Unrealistic and overly ambitious.

Coun. Bob Jeffery even called the proposal "unfair" and a "kick in the teeth" to downtown businesses.

Sure, food shops and grocery stores might object, but wouldn't most downtown merchants be thrilled to see hundreds of shoppers gathering mere steps from their door?

Midland residents certainly want that option. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs conducted a survey for the Downtown Midland Business Improvement Area (BIA) on this and other related subjects, and a whopping 96 per cent of respondents said yes to a farmers' market.

While some of council's concerns were legitimate, Strimaitis suggested her overall impression was that the town would never get around to approving her plan.

Thankfully, she didn't wait around, instead forging an agreement to set up on mall property, out of the reach of naysayers.

And grateful Midland residents now have another option for fresh, safe, locally grown food.