Board approves first reading of resolution to formalize Cass County 4‑H community garden; city to provide water access and parking support

City staff told the Board of Aldermen that although the board approved the community garden project in January, no memorandum of understanding was ever executed to define roles and responsibilities, and the board returned to finalize that agreement with a resolution.

“We only ask for two things that we need, and that is water and parking,” said Glenda Gash, who identified herself as a Cass County 4‑H project leader. “Water is the most important thing.”

Gash and volunteers described the garden as an 8‑year project providing hands‑on gardening education to youth and families, conserving water through rain barrels and offering organic growing instruction. Karen Garrison, who identified herself as Gash’s assistant, said the site needs some repairs to the parking area where ruts have developed and that volunteers will help with maintenance once basic infrastructure is provided.

Public works staff reported an older yard hydrant and an out‑of‑service water fountain exist at the site but are not functioning. Staff recommended tapping a main at the corner of a nearby street, installing a meter and a new yard hydrant with a lock that the garden operators would control, allowing the group to use municipal water while protecting the system.

“We can put a meter in, put a yard hydrant wherever [staff] says would be a good spot,” a public works representative said. “That yard hydrant can have a lock on it, which we can, obviously, give a key to the user. They’d be responsible for it.”

The board voted to approve Resolution 2025‑31 on first reading; aldermen made a motion and the vote on first reading was recorded by voice as “Aye.” The resolution formalizes the city’s intent to work with the Cass County 4‑H program and to draft an MOU clarifying watering access, parking improvements and maintenance responsibilities.

Garden leaders said they will take responsibility for routine mowing and upkeep and will hold volunteer events; they asked the city to assist with water access, a lockable yard hydrant, and minor parking repairs.

The resolution received its first reading and was moved forward; final, binding terms will depend on the MOU and any subsequent city work orders or budget approvals.