City's Food Policy Manager Mara Momenee Hosts Farmers Gathering to Help Shape Toledo’s Food System

On March 16, 2026, the City of Toledo's Food Policy Manager, Mara Momenee, brought together aspiring and experienced growers, urban farmers, rural and suburban producers, and dedicated supporters for a "Toledo Farmer Gathering" at the Sofia Quintero Arts & Cultural Center in the Old South End.

The three-hour event was designed to center the voices of farmers, creating space to discuss the challenges of growing and selling food within the city and to collaboratively brainstorm potential solutions.

Several key priorities rose to the surface, including concerns about soil contamination and the urgent need for soil testing and remediation resources; a desire for greater processing infrastructure, including a food hub to support local and regional growers; and a call to make the city's policy and planning processes more accessible and understandable to those who want to help shape Toledo's food future.

"The work of growing food is so difficult and too often undervalued, but these are the people most in touch with our natural environment and the great need for quality, accessible healthy food in our communities," Momenee said.

"I want to be intentional about working toward a community food action plan with farmers both helping build the table and having a seat at it, so we can work together toward a food system where everyone has what they need to be well."

The event was made possible through the support of a dedicated network of partners, including Central State Extension; the Lucas Soil & Water Conservation District; the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department; city colleagues in planning, workforce development, and small business support; and the team at Sofia Quintero Arts & Cultural Center.

Looking ahead, Momenee will distill the community feedback gathered from activity stations and participant surveys to lay the foundation for an online grower resource hub and a farmer working group within a future food policy council. She also is committed to reaching those who were not in attendance and continuing to grow the coalition of people who want to inform food systems improvements together.

"Overall, I think the event was a success. I'm grateful to everyone who made it out to share their experiences or listen and support, but now I think the most important step is turning all of the feedback gathered into actual pathways for policy impact and participation," Momenee added.

That spirit of community was echoed by attendees like Rod Brandt, co-owner of Back to the Garden, a micro-farm in Holland, Ohio. "Farming can often feel like you're on an island. It is encouraging to me to see so many people who view agriculture from a community perspective and are invested in making it a better experience for everyone, from farmer to consumer. I feel very supported by this group!"

Want to Get Involved? Opportunities for Growers:

Community Gardeners' Exchange - hosted by Lucas Soil & Water Conservation District

Homesteading Network & Fast Track Farmer Program - led by Central State Extension

Farm-a-Lot Land Opportunity - offered through the Lucas County Land Bank

If you weren't able to make the gathering but want to be part of shaping Toledo's food future, Mara wants to hear from you.

Reach out at [email protected] to share your experiences, join the conversation, or stay informed on next steps.