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Wife chosen over husband to run Des Plaines farmers market

Jack Groat was the favorite to take over operations of a Des Plaines farmers market if the event resumed this year after a long hiatus, but now it appears that it's his wife and daughter who are the choice of the city alderman leading the effort.

First Ward Alderman Patti Haugeberg said Wednesday she is proposing that Connie Groat and her daughter, Monika Montemayor, become the managers of a new downtown farmers market on Friday afternoons, beginning June 19. The city council is expected to discuss Haugeberg's selection March 16.

Haugeberg had been in discussions with Jack Groat, who operates the Elk Grove Village Farmers Market, but they were unable to reach a deal. Groat had argued that a proposed operation agreement gave the city too much control.

Haugeberg, who represents the downtown area, said Connie Groat and Montemayor have nine years experience helping run the Elk Grove market and other events.

"They do a lot more events than Jack does," Haugeberg said. "They are just delightful to work with."

Connie Groat and Montemayor were the only ones to respond to a city request for qualifications document this week expressing interest in operating a farmers market. In their one-page submission, they outlined their experience helping to run the Elk Grove Farmers Market and the annual holiday arts and crafts show at Elk Grove High School.

Haugeberg said there will only be food-related items sold at the Des Plaines market, and no crafts, as in previous years.

Meanwhile, a two-year extension for the Elk Grove market was approved Tuesday by the village board. The license agreement allows Jack Groat, operating the market as a nonprofit, use of public land at the clock tower at Wellington Avenue and Biesterfield Road. He's required to carry insurance, remove trash at the end of each event, and donate proceeds to an Elk Grove food pantry.

The market will be held from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, starting June 6.

Groat said Tuesday the markets in Des Plaines and Elk Grove are "two different forms."

He declined to discuss the prospects for his involvement in the Des Plaines market other than saying, "We're still working on it."

Montemayor directed all questions to Haugeberg.

Des Plaines officials hope farmers market comes back to town

Des Plaines alderman confident farmers market will return this summer

Connie Groat
Monika Montemayor
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