Appendix
Attachment B: Questionnaire Summary
October 4, 2016Pages 17–181 section
A summary of feedback from garden plot holders regarding plot satisfaction, policy changes, and expansion interests.
20 out of 36 responses received17/20 in favor of extending term for existing plotsReports of minor damage or theft by strangers
Questionnaire Summary - Attachment B
# Received: 20/36 No Response: 16 # of Society Members: 8
1. Are you happy with your existing plot (1-not very happy, 3-satisfied, 5-extremely happy) :
| Category | Count | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Not happy | 2 | - three beds on slope don't drain properly - plants have been cut/damaged |
| Satisfied | 7 | - appreciate easy access and height of raised beds |
| Extremely happy | 10 | - love, love, love opportunity to grow food |
| N/A | 1 |
2. The existing Town policy states plot use is for a three year term. Upon renewal, first priority is given to the waitlist by sequence order with the remainder going into a lottery-style draw. Is your preference:
| Choice | Count | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Retain existing policy of lottery style draw | 2 | - those on the slope and in small plots would like the opportunity to move |
| Amend policy to allow an extended term in same plot. Those on the waitlist would get first priority, replacing those in the plots drawn. | 17 | - response to successful experiment should not be to toss people out who made it successful - remove expiry date, gardening is an on-going enterprise not short term rental - extention of term would provide better return on investment (soil, plants) |
| N/A | 1 |
3. Have you experienced any damage to your plot or plants?
| Choice | Count | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Yes | 10 | - strangers eating produce, some feel because it is open food available to community - minor; carrots pulled, punctured pumpkins |
| No | 10 |
4. Are you interested in future expansion of the garden through fundraising, community events, programs, etc.?
| Choice | Count | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Yes | 11 | - happy to see expansion, have been helping - 30 more plots at same, as long as same rules apply - help to build a healthy vibrant community, and develop food sustainability |
| No | 7 | - more plots should be added by Town |
| N/A | 2 | - Town should build additional 30 plots, same high standard, increase fees for capital |
a. If yes, are you willing to build new plots?
| Choice | Count | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Yes | 9 | - already have |
| No | 2 | - physical limitations - no time to administer or be part of garden society |
5. Are you in favour of a self-managed community garden in partnership with the Town; i.e. day-to-day administration carried out by a group of volunteers, such as the current Society setup?
| Choice | Count | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Yes | 8 | - a degree of autonomy would be beneficial to gardeners and Town - Society may allow more community involvement, free up staff time |
| No | 8 | - Society should be excluded from operation, rely on volunteers (hard to come by) - Town should manage garden, they've done an excellent job so far |
| N/A | 4 | - leave those of us who wish to rent plots as originally set up - either way but not comfortable with two groups |
a. If no, would you be in favour of the garden being split into two separate groups – the original 30 plots remain under management of the Town, with any expansion plots managed by the Society?
| Choice | Count | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Yes | 4 | - must have same rules as Town |
| No | 3 | - split administration a recipe for discontent and confrontation; 2-tier system lacks continuity; creates perception problem/inequity |
| N/A | 1 | - tired of 2 groups, but don't know how to fix |
Provide Comments, Feedback or Requests
- such a blessing, allows them to grow food they can't afford in store
- growing food should be a Town priority
- like new ornamental bed - anchors the development
- enjoyed past three years, sad to think I might not get opportunity next year
- thanks so much for these plots!
- a hook or post for dog leashes would be great; maybe near shed or water post
- have regular meetings of gardeners and coordinator to keep everyone in the loop
- revise shed layout to include expansion plots
- consider assigning two hill plots per plot holder to make it more attractive
- restrict applicants to exclude those with home gardens and/or plots in other community gardens
- Society membership should be automatic when paying plot fees - prevent the "us" against "them"
- impressed with gardens and everyone's enthusiasm, hope Town continues to support
Page 17–18
Extracted from: 2016 10 04 Council Agenda - Pdf