WHEREAS, in cities all around the country, the creation of public markets and farmers markets have helped revitalize downtowns and neighborhoods; and

WHEREAS, these markets also provide access to healthy food alternatives, thus reducing the incidence of various ailments in city neighborhoods; and

WHEREAS, these markets also help build stronger ties between urban and rural communities, thus building a stronger nation; and

WHEREAS, Congress is considering proposals to provide new funding to support legislation authorized in 2002 which would help create more public and farmers markets, and also equip these markets with the availability to accept food stamp vouchers from seniors and needy families,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that The U.S. Conference of Mayors urges Congress to appropriate the funds necessary to expand public and farmers markets around the country; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that The United States Conference of Mayors will reach out to appropriate organizations to inform them of the organization's support for farmers markets and build coalitions accordingly.