Following a proposal by two councilmembers, Sumner’s former Red Apple building has become a hot topic.

Councilmembers Nancy Dumas and Randy Hynek put forward the idea of converting the site into a farmer’s market co-op, at the March 25 study session.

Some councilmembers and city officials disagree with that plan, stating the cost of doing so would be a burden to taxpayers.

Mayor Dave Enslow wrote in the April 11 issue of the city’s Community Connection newsletter that he would like resident input:

“I have always loved the idea of a farmer’s market, but just like our recent discussions about the golf course, I don’t want it to be a burden to taxpayers.  The building has two structural beams that have failed and need major repair, a roof that leaks like a sieve and is likely full of asbestos, exposed wiring, no heat, and one working electrical outlet.  The building was intended to be torn down, so the repairs and their costs to bring it up to code would be significant.  Personally, I would not want to see our citizens have to pay for those repairs … Should the City pursue its original vision in encouraging redevelopment of the site as planned, or should we instead invest in repairing the building, perhaps with taxpayers’ money, and run a market there? For my part, I’d like to see development done on someone else’s dime, bringing something that would produce jobs, something that would support and enhance our downtown, and something for all of us to be proud of for years to come. What do you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts at denslow@ci.sumner.wa.us.”