To: Fort Collins City Council

City Landscaping funds should go to FREE FOOD in our community

As we beautify the communities by planting flowers and decorative plants, I have to ask why are we not planting more edibles? The concept of "Free Food" is working in many communities and I would like to see our community be a part of this trend. Of course, the bees and butterflies need some flowers and they are like little smiles everywhere, and putting some of the money towards planting food can only make the efforts of beautifying the community multiply.

Why is this important?

AS food becomes increasingly expensive, communities and citizens can solve this problem while contributing to the betterment of society at the same time. Money is already being spent on landscaping and flowers; I ask that a portion of this money be slotted to FREE FOOD projects throughout our city-owned growing spaces. This type of project has proven to not only bring more accessible fresh food to the citizens, but also bring citizens to connect to each other in their communities. This makes the whole community stronger, healthier and more sustainable. Also, imagine the "accidental" education that will occur and inspire others to grow some food in their own neighborhood.