Atlanta City Council Approves Agricultural Ordinance

“This will allow Atlantans and their communities to have access to healthy and nutritious food,” says Suzanne Girdner, the executive director of the Atlanta Local Food Initiative.

This ordinance allows Atlantans to grow their own foods, which can be sold at places like farmer’s markets and local restaurants.

“In the case of Atlanta, where you have vacant lots, there’s a potential there to use land for urban gardens or market gardens and ultimately, it’s a way of revitalizing a community,” says Girdner.

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Supporters say the initiative has another benefit: it gives people in Atlanta healthier options.

“There are numerous folks who just don’t have access to fresh, local produce, fresh foods and are getting most of their nutrition from convenience stores,” says Mindy Goldstein, the director of the Turner Environmental Law Clinic.

The directive originally came from the Mayor’s Kasim Reed’s office and is expected to get his signature of approval within the next few days.