Yakima Man Trying to Get Community Garden

A Yakima man is beginning the new year with a campaign for change. Now he just has to convince the Yakima City Council that his plan for a public garden is worth it. David Gaudette wants to turn the empty plot of land near Nob Hill Boulevard and 32nd Avenue into a public garden of just under 2 acres.

Gaudette says the property has been owned by the city of Yakima for more than 60 years, but that nothing's ever been done with the land. He wants to use the empty space to create an all-organic garden with a host of fruits of vegetables.

But one of the problems is the opportunity cost, especially because of the location on Nob Hill Boulevard. The land is valued at $400,000 but hasn't drawn a buyer in the six or seven years it's been up for sale.

Gaudette thinks that since the land is owned by taxpayers and isn't being used, it should be used for the public good.

"Well, I'm doing this to better the world around me," Gaudette said. "And the impact would hopefully would be to make a better life for everyone."

Gaudette has had his eyes on the land for years but just got an online petition going recently.

He already has more than 100 signatures and hopes to get many more before presenting his idea to City Council.

Gaudette knows it could be a tough sell. But even if this specific location doesn't work out, he hopes his effort starts a conversation about eventually creating a public garden somewhere in Yakima.

Anyone can sign the petition in favor of the public garden.

The group also has a Facebook page.