Union Mill Coop
West Peterborough, New Hampshire.
The Union Mill Cooperative Market is a vision in progress. The building was constructed in 1856 (see more details in HISTORY) After many years of sitting idle, the Mill was purchased in 2003, with the goal of creating living and business space.
The derelict structure saw major restoration, accomplished using green building concepts and materials. The ground floor has been developed to provide a variety of market spaces for vendors. In the spring of 2007 a store opened, providing the community with access to local and organic foods and practical items. A restaurant affiliated with the store also opened, and quickly became a popular gathering place where friends could meet, enjoy an informal atmosphere, and hear live music.
The noble ambition of this project temporarily exceeded its resources, and in July of 2007 the store and restaurant closed in order to reconfigure to a cooperative business model.
In the interim there has been extensive work done by a Steering Committee to create a solid business foundation for the establishment of a food cooperative. We are now planning to reopen the store a coop; we believe this will best meet the needs of the greater Peterborough community. The Coop may eventually include a cafe as well.
We are grateful to the many people who have shown support and enthusiasm for the initial venture, and we look forward to a future of serving the community in many ways.
March 19, 2008 at 11:22 am · Filed under Event
“The Monadnock Region’s Green Living Expo & Festival”
10am - 4pm, Sat., April 19, 2008
Downtown Peterborough, NH
Organized by the Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce, “Greenerborough” will feature more than four dozen exhibits in the Peterborough Town House and Peterborough Historical Society from people, companies, and organizations with “green” products, services, and information. In addition, following its motto of “Communicate, Educate, Motivate,” the festival will include numerous other activities, sales, and events throughout the town on that day.
This event will be fun for the whole family, and there is no admission charge.
“Greenerborough” will take place rain or shine and be handicapped-accessible. For further information, please see www.peterboroughchamber.com or contact the GPCOC at POB 401, Peterborough NH 03458. Tel.: 603-924-7234. Fax: 603-924-7235. Email: info@peterboroughchamber.com.
February 10, 2008 at 3:16 pm · Filed under Event
Heberton Hall in Keene (next to the library on Winter St.) - The community is invited to craft a plan of action that will steer the support and promotion for a thriving local economy rooted in agriculture. For more information call 603-756-2988 x116 or email amanda.costello@nh.nacdnet.net
December 8, 2007 at 10:40 am · Filed under Co-op
The current owners of the market building are needing to sell the condo unit that was the previous home of the Union Mill Market and Cafe. Our hope is that the property is sold to a community-minded investor who would support a cooperative food market opening in all or part of the building.
Until the building is sold, work on the Union Mill Coop is temporarily on hold.
For more information on the building, contact Petersons Reality at 603-924-3321, info@petersonsrealestate.com, or visit http://www.petersonsrealestate.com/.
November 12, 2007 at 7:54 am · Filed under Co-op
Greetings to all potential members of the Union Mill Food Cooperative,
Thank you for your interest in the NEW Union Mill Coop. We want to renew the energy, enthusiasm, music and gatherings that the Union Mill Market brought to our Monadnock community.
The Union Mill Coop’s mission is to support, promote & sustain the Monadnock region’s environment, agriculture & economy by offering affordable, local, fresh, quality and organic food, as well as cultural events and education, through a cooperative & sustainable business structure & community involvement.
The Union Mill Cooperative Steering Committee has been holding weekly meetings.
What have we been doing?
We have:
o Adopted a cooperative business model (see Cooperative Background Information below).
o Drafted by-laws that move Union Mill Coop closer to Incorporation.
We are:
o Creating our business plan and three-year budget.
o Pursuing grants and outside investors.
o Consulting with other cooperatives including the Hanover/Lebanon Cooperatives.
o Looking at the viability of running a food market and café.
What are our obstacles and needs before opening?
We need:
o More people with business and community experience to join the Steering Committee.
o Nominations for the Union Mill Cooperative Board of Directors.
o Help recruiting an experienced General Manager and dedicated staff.
o Members – once the Union Mill Coop is Incorporated we will begin seeking/enrolling Members/Owners.
We want to encourage communication and collaboration between the Steering Committee and the community. Please email us at: info@unionmillcoop.net if you can help, in any capacity.
Sincerely,
Current Union Mill Steering Committee Members:
Joan Barrows
Charles Daloz
Paul Faber
Angus Johnson
Frank Meehan
Michael Morse
Steve Normanton
Jen Risley
Fred Simmons
Romek Sypko
Luc Monzies, a founder of the initial Union Mill Market and Café, has recently moved from Peterborough and will no longer be part of the Union Mill Cooperative. The Steering Committee wants to thank him for his vision, energy, and support for community and environmental sustainability.
November 12, 2007 at 7:45 am · Filed under Event
The Green Organization: A Panel Discussion
How to Build Environmental and Organizational Sustainability
Date: 11/28/07
Time: 7 pm
Place: Antioch University New England, Keene
Sustainability has become the latest organizational trend. Everywhere you turn, organizations and individuals are seeking ways to be more “green.” New England is filled with companies that are greening their bottom lines, and attempting to find the balance of economics, environment, and social issues—a triple bottom line. Polly Chandler will moderate a panel of business owners and Green MBA students who are committed to the triple bottom line. Please join in this conversation and discuss how consumers and organizations can work together to build a sustainable future.
This event is a part of the ANE Fall Speaker Series. There is no admission fee. Seating is limited. For more information, visit www.antiochne.edu
October 1, 2007 at 4:50 pm · Filed under Website News
Welcome to the new Union Mill Coop website. News including updated info on membership, and notice of events, will be posted here. Check back frequently, or subscribe by email or RSS to stay informed.
