The resolution creates a “Local Food Purchasing Policy” and requires the county’s purchasing agent to consult with the Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets to set a percentage of foods that qualify as "locally produced" for foods purchased by county residential healthcare and correctional facilities.
Procurement guidelines apply to residential health care and correctional facilities
Whereas clauses refer to policy promoting public health and safety, and local produce retaining more of its nutritional value (p. 1)
Whereas clause states one goal of policy is to fight global climate changel refers to diet based on local food needing less gas and oil (p.1)
"Whereas clause #1: ""intended to increase regional per capita income, provide incentives for job creation, attract economic investment,"" #3: ""according to a study by the New Economics Foundation in London, a dollar spent locally generates twice as much income for the local economy,"" also refers to locally produced food making farming more economically viable"
Whereas clauses refer to several studies and include references to health, economic, environmental, and consumer choice benefits of buying and eating locally grown fresh produce
First "whereas" clause states: "It is the policy of Albany County to promote the economic vitality and public health and safety of its communities, and this “Local Food Purchasing Policy” is intended to increase regional per capita income, provide incentives for job creation, attract economic investment, fight global climate change and promote the health and safety of its citizens and communities . . . " (p. 1)
Second whereas clause defines "locally produced food"
County purchasing agent must consult with the Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets to set percentage of local food.
Uncodified Resolution 496-a (2/9/09)