DuPont Development News

Community Garden Update, New Deputy Police Chief, Financial Specialist, Pride Month Proclamation, and Transportation Improvement Program Presented to Council

The council received an annual update on the community garden, highlighting its origins from Intel in 2009, its expansion to city members in 2011, and its establishment as a 501c3 charitable organization. The garden was relocated to city property in 2017, operating under an agreement with the city. The mission includes growing healthy food, supporting community members, and donating produce to local food banks, with approximately 75% of produce being donated. The garden has incorporated hydroponics and other technologies. Over 375 families have participated since its inception, with a 15-25% annual turnover. Currently, there are 92 large garden beds, and hydroponics are used to grow produce year-round. The garden operates on a $50 annual plot subscription, with the city providing water. Fundraising efforts include seeking grants, volunteer hours logged for Intel Foundation, plant sales, farmers market sales, and Christmas cookie sales. The city provides essential resources such as electricity for refrigerators and hydroponics, and waste management services. A significant loan from the city for electrical connection costs is nearly paid off. The past year saw the garden's 15th anniversary and a donation of 8,200 pounds of produce. There is high demand for garden beds, with a waiting list and no available space. The garden is volunteer-run, with task teams, community beds for food banks, and monthly workdays. Business partnerships with Amazon, Starbucks, and Fllis provide volunteer support and resources. Recent incidents of vandalism, including fence cutting and greenhouse damage, have occurred, prompting enhanced police patrols. Looking ahead, the garden plans to manage growth and potentially expand. A new deputy police chief, Onismo Lopez Jr., with over 30 years of experience, was appointed and sworn in. Alexandra Kenyon from Kenyon Dyson Law Firm, specializing in municipal law, was introduced as a resource. Lisa Parks was welcomed as the interim public services director. Tara Dunford, a CPA with over 20 years of experience, was introduced as a local government finance specialist who has begun analyzing the city's finances. The council also proclaimed June 2026 as Pride Month. A public hearing was held for the six-year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), with city engineer Gus Lim presenting the detailed plan and funding sources, noting that most projects are pending funding and are scheduled for future years due to grant competition timelines. Several council members expressed concerns about project timelines and the prioritization of certain projects like the roundabout at McNeel and Ridge View. The council approved Resolution No. 26-019 for the six-year TIP and the consent agenda. Two council members, Deputy Mayor Winkler and Council Member Thakor, were appointed as voting members for the AWC annual meeting. Mayor Frederick's report included an update on the potential impact of a $34 billion shortfall on the DuPont Sounder extension, with efforts underway to secure federal grants for the planning phase. Council members shared updates on local events, including historical society tours and flag displays, and recognized city staff for their work during a period of transition. Council member Walton suggested considering a land acknowledgment for the upcoming canoe journey from the Visquali Tribe. The city administrator announced the cancellation of a meeting and a special call meeting in July.