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Ripon non-profit plants seeds for a community garden
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A non-profit group is looking to develop a small section near Doak Boulevard and Vera Avenue into a community garden.

But those behind this project recently submitted a minor site review application, seeking waivers on both the application fee ($566) and metering water fee for this 2.25 acre parcel.

“The proponents intend to provide garden plots for local Ripon residents,” Planning Director Ken Zuidervaart said in his report to the Ripon City Council. “Staff processed the (minor site) review that included several conditions on the site.”

He explained to the group that he and his staff were not authorized to sign-off on such waivers.

Not to be deterred, proponents composed a letter requesting that Mayor Chuck Winn place this item on Tuesday’s City Council agenda.

Discussion on this item will take place during the 7 p.m. open session in the Council Chambers at Ripon City Hall, 259 N. Wilma Ave.

“It does not appear that anything in Title 16 permits the City to waiver such application fees without amending or changing the ordinance,” said Zuidervaart.

As for the water rate, the basic is $6.19 for non-potable and 39 cents per every 100 cubic feet for the metered.

Council members could have some options, including waiving or reducing any of the fees or charges. But they’re required to identify a public purpose for either decision.

They’ll also discuss changing the Aug. 5 meeting time, from 7 o’clock to 5 p.m. in order to attend National Night Out.

Activities for this special community event are scheduled to take place from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Ripon Community Center.

This includes the annual Police vs. Firefighters watermelon-eating contest along with car show, karaoke, water slides, face painting, bingo, crafts and ID for the children.

 In addition, the City of Ripon emergency vehicles will be on display while those in attendance can enjoy free hot dogs and bottled water.

For more information, call the City of Ripon at 209.599.2108 or log on to www.cityofripon.org.