Onondaga County Legislator Mark Olson joined other elected officials for an important community listening session and discussion of the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing Central New York’s food system.
The April 2nd event at the CNY Regional Market was hosted by the Syracuse-Onondaga Food Systems Alliance (SOFSA). Organizers say the event “provided a rare opportunity for direct dialogue between policymakers and those working on the ground.” 17 presenters representing different groups within the food system – farmers, food business owners, market operators, nonprofit leaders, and advocates – shared insights from their unique perspectives. Elected officials then had time to ask clarifying questions to help them really understand our local food system and where help is needed most.
Legislator Olson said, “We have much work to do to improve food insecurity in CNY and I look forward to working together with our city, state and federal agencies to improve food options for those impacted.”
Key priorities that emerged include improving food access, strengthening local food systems, investing in farm-to-school programs, the need for culturally inclusive food options, and better infrastructure to support local agriculture. SOFSA says the session underscores the power of community-driven advocacy and the importance of ongoing dialogue between policymakers and those shaping the region’s food landscape.
