By Tom Fink
June 12, 2009 — Claremore City Council members will be considering a new city ordinance Monday night to allow city churches and similar groups to use their property for communal gardens.
“In the past few months, we’ve received several requests from local churches for permission to construct ‘community gardens,’” said Cassie Sowers, City of Claremore public relations director. “These churches’ intent is to allow nearby residents and church members the opportunity to garden in one centralized spot, and to provide fresh produce for local food pantries and other charitable programs.”
Sowers said the “community gardens” also could serve as public education areas for public health.
“Claremore’s zoning ordinances don’t address this specific type of use, so it therefore prevents us from recommending their use,” she said.
Despite community gardens not being addressed by city ordinances, Sowers said their uniqueness and growing popularity make it necessary to provide clear directions and regulations.
“Within the last year, the City of Tulsa has adopted a similar ordinance, and much of the language used in their ordinance has been reused for the ordinance we’re presenting Monday night,” she said.
Verbiage contained within the proposed ordinance defines a “Community Garden” as one or more lots or parcels of land used to produce vegetables, fruits, flowers or other plant material for personal use by the property owner or individuals authorized by the property owner.”
“Should the council choose to approve this ordinance, it will be area-wide, meaning the community garden use will be allowed in all zonings and locations,” she said.
Council members will consider the community garden ordinance at their regular meeting Monday, June 15 at City Hall.
