If Silver Spring’s Fenton Street Market can no longer afford to occupy its weekly spot in Veterans Plaza, one potential alternative is mini golf, according to Ginny Gong, director of the county’s Office of Community Use of Public Facilities.
“There are a lot of things being discussed that might be very good for community there,” said Gong, adding that the county might decide not to have a regular program in the space. The county could offer the space to large events instead.
The county plans to charge $125 an hour for the space starting in 2012. The new rate would be more than the Fenton Street Market could afford, said founder and Director Hannah McCann. Earning a weekly profit of $36 a week, the market currently pays a $48 weekly administrative fee in lieu of rent.
Anyone else who uses the space would pay the hourly rate, Gong said. It would only be fair if the Fenton Street Market were held to the same standards. As it is, the market is using the plaza rent-free for a year.
Supporters of the market say it benefits the local economy, drawing about 72,500 people annually and generating $1.9 million in annual revenue for neighboring businesses, according to a study commissioned by the market.
County Executive Ike Leggett has called the market “a great asset to our community,” and Councilman Hans Riemer, D-at large, has urged Leggett to prevent the market from closing.
Gong emphasized that no decisions have been made.
