Back during the mayoral coronation campaign, Rahm Emanuel, like most of the other candidates, vowed to make conditions for urban farmers and gardeners more favorable in Chicago. Now, it appears that he's ready to make good on that promise. Emanuel held a press conference at Growing Power's new Iron Street Farm earlier this week, announcing a new proposed ordinance that would make it easier for commercial farmers to operate within the city limits. The farming ordinance would expand the size limits on community gardens to 25,000 square feet, legalize aquaponics (hydroponics with fish), and relax fencing rules for larger farms. According to the Trib, the urban farming ordinance will be introduced to the City Council today, and it could be voted on in September.
· Emanuel widens city's gate to urban gardening [Trib]
· Proposed zoning change to cut red tape for urban agriculture [WBEZ]
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