Midstate Technical Institute pitches community garden at former Gordon School; board requests follow-up

Midstate Technical Institute representative Randy CIS told the Fairfield County School District Board on March 19 that his organization is seeking use of the lower half of the old Gordon School building and the land behind it to create a community garden aimed at producing free fruits and vegetables, offering raised beds for seniors and people with disabilities, and running education programs for at‑risk youth.

"This is 100% community garden — not a soul will pay a dime," Randy CIS said, describing plans for free distribution to residents and partnerships with local organizations.

The presenter outlined proposed partnerships and distribution channels: the Fairfield Community Food Bank and Fairfield Forward were described as potential partners, the County on Aging and the Sheriff’s Office would help distribute produce to homebound residents, and the Lions Club has agreed to fund transit for citizens to travel to the garden site. CIS also said the project team is considering apiary (honey‑bee) activities as part of the site plan.

Board members asked detailed operational questions. Dr. J.R. Green (superintendent) and several board members pressed CIS on how garden plots will be allocated, who will maintain them, equipment needs (trailers, tractors), and whether the project has secured sustainable funding. CIS said grant applications are in progress and that he will meet the next day with Fairfield Forward to finalize some grant details. He described existing community commitments — for example, the Lions Club offering transit support and named local organizations that have expressed interest in site participation.

Board members also discussed lease parameters. CIS said he was open to a year‑to‑year or multi‑year lease depending on what the board prefers; he emphasized the garden’s community focus and volunteer commitments. Members repeatedly asked for a detailed operating plan before taking a formal vote: selection criteria for plot users, maintenance schedules, insurance and liability arrangements for bees and volunteers, and a clarified funding profile.

Outcome: the board did not vote to lease or approve final use tonight. Multiple board members thanked CIS and asked staff to return with additional details and a draft agreement. Chair Miller closed the discussion by noting staff would follow up with the presenter.

Why it matters: the proposal aims to increase access to fresh food, provide targeted support for seniors and people with limited mobility, and offer education and workforce development opportunities for youth. The board’s request for more operational detail reflects typical concerns about long‑term sustainability, liability and equitable access for community members.

Next steps: CIS and staff will prepare additional documentation (operational plan, funding/grant updates, insurance/maintenance proposals and lease term options) for a future board meeting before any formal action is taken.