Long Beach seeks federal funds for indoor market; Council adopts resolution opposing local ICE activity

Long Beach Farmers Market Could Expand with New Indoor Facility

A fledgling local farmers market in Long Beach could extend its reach into the colder, wetter months if a funding initiative by city officials becomes reality. On January 15, the Long Beach City Council unanimously passed a resolution authorizing the mayor to apply for funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to construct an indoor market and event space at Veterans Field.

The primary beneficiary of this new space would be the Columbia-Pacific Farmers Market, which currently operates on Fridays from May through September in Long Beach. Mayor Sue Svendsen told the Observer in December that the city had previously been awarded a USDA grant for designing an indoor market. This design was completed by a USDA staff designer.

Following this, city officials approached the USDA about potential construction funding. The agency recommended applying for a loan with the possibility of some grant funding. Long Beach is seeking $650,000 through the USDA’s Rural Development loan program.

The resolution passed by the council, along with a public hearing held at the January 15 meeting, are necessary steps as part of the USDA application process.

According to Mayor Svendsen, the planned design is “basically an L-shaped pole barn with roll-up glass garage doors.” The facility will feature 25 to 30 indoor booth areas, restrooms, power, and water hookups. This new space will also include refrigeration capabilities, addressing a current limitation of the farmers market that prevents vendors from selling perishable items such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy.

The indoor market would not only extend the farmers market season but also serve as a venue for other community events, offering shelter from the elements. Potential uses include concerts, arts and crafts shows, and more. Svendsen emphasized that the new facility would not affect parking in the area.

Long Beach City Council Adopts Resolution Opposing ICE Operations

At the same January 15 meeting, the Long Beach City Council also unanimously adopted a resolution expressing concern and opposition to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations or facilities within the city’s jurisdiction.

The resolution followed a presentation by officials from Pacific County Immigrant Support (PCIS), an organization formed in 2018 to advocate for immigrant families. PCIS connects immigrant families with resources and other organizations, assisting with rent, utilities, food, legal fees, and other critical needs.

The resolution states: “The Long Beach City Council officially acknowledges and supports the concerns of its residents regarding any proposed ICE housing or operations within the city limits. The City Council hereby declares its formal opposition to the stationing of ICE personnel, facilities, or related enforcement activities within the City of Long Beach jurisdiction.”

Furthermore, the resolution directs the mayor to pursue all available legal and legislative avenues at the local, state, and federal levels to prevent the establishment of ICE activities or facilities in Long Beach.

Citing the city’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan, the resolution highlights Long Beach’s commitment “to pay tribute to our rich cultural and natural heritage; a community that has quality health care and other essential services; and above all is a safe place where residents can live, work, and play.”

It also references the Keep Washington Working Act, a state law passed in 2019 that restricts the involvement of local law enforcement in the enforcement of federal immigration laws and limits the use of state and local resources for these purposes.

“The current direction and operation of [ICE] has generated significant and legitimate fear among many people in our country, which conflicts with the inclusive values held dear by the Long Beach Peninsula community,” the resolution states. It adds that this fear “affects the quality of life and sense of security for Long Beach residents, impacting the City’s ability to foster a truly diverse economic base and livable community.”

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With these resolutions, Long Beach City Council demonstrates its commitment to supporting community growth while fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all residents.
https://chinookobserver.com/2026/01/18/long-beach-seeks-federal-funds-for-indoor-market-council-adopts-resolution-opposing-local-ice-activity/

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