MADISON — Residents will be asked to weigh in on a proposed local foods ordinance Monday.

The ordinance, which was brought to the Board of Selectmen by members of the East Madison Grange and representatives from the Madison Farmers Market, is similar to local foods ordinances that were passed last year in the towns of Bingham and Solon, said Madison Town Manager Tim Curtis.

A public hearing on the ordinance is scheduled to take place during the regular Madison Board of Selectmen’s meeting at 6:30 p.m. Monday at the Old Point Avenue school.

The purpose of the ordinance is to “provide citizens with unimpeded access to local food” and protect the right of farmers, people running roadside stands and producers to sell directly to patrons.

After the public hearing Monday the ordinance will be added to the town meeting warrant for residents to vote on.

Last year, residents in Bingham and Solon approved local foods ordinances as a way to address growing concerns with state and federal regulations concerning the sale of farm produce and products, particularly the sale of unpasteurized milk.

The sale of unpasteurized milk is legal in Maine although many farmers have lamented the state’s requirements for licensing and inspection.

“I’ve only heard positive comments. I don’t anticipate there being a whole lot of discussion on it,” Curtis said of the proposed Madison ordinance. “It’s helpful to the local farmers and the local food community.”‘

Also Monday the board is scheduled to receive an update from Madison Electric Works on a new solar project to be located in the Madison Business Park.

Madison Electric Works superintendent Calvin Ames said in November the utility company was hoping to install a 4-megawatt solar project in the business park with plans to buy power from the bid winner at a fixed price for 20 to 30 years, eventually taking over and purchasing the solar facility.

Rachel Ohm — 612-2368

rohm@centralmaine.com

Twitter: @rachel_ohm

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