Step into the world of the Kenosha Public Market with us, as we chat with Laura Belsky one of the Board of Directors of the Kenosha Public Market, to learn about the history, impact, and future of our cherished Kenosha Public Market.
Q. Hello Laura, thank you for your time, and congrats on all the success of the Kenosha Public Market, let’s start out by you telling us little about yourself.
A. As a lifelong resident of Kenosha, Wisconsin, I have seen our county go through many changes over the years. Growing up, I was blessed to have the opportunity to experience the beauty of this place while making lifelong friendships that I still cherish today. After spending many successful years in the IT industry, I retired to focus on my family and volunteer work.
I am currently a County Board Supervisor and I enjoy using my experience to make a positive difference to our county. I also use my skills to help local non-profit organizations in their efforts to make Kenosha a better place to live. As a wife, mother, and grandmother, I understand the importance of giving back to our community and taking the time to enjoy the wonderful things our county has to offer.
When I am not busy advocating on behalf of Kenosha County, I spend a lot of my time enjoying the great outdoors. I especially enjoy the wonderful parks, bike paths, and lakes that are all within a short distance of my home. I also love to attend the many community events that Kenosha has to offer. From festivals and fairs to parades and sporting events, there is always something going on in Kenosha.
I am so proud to call Kenosha County my home. I am dedicated to ensuring that our county remains a safe and vibrant place for generations to come. I am always available to answer any questions people may have about our county and I love talking to anyone who is interested in learning more about the place I have called home my entire life.
Q. How did you get involved with the Kenosha Public Market and how did the idea of creating the Kenosha Public market come to be?
A. The idea of launching the Kenosha Public Market was born out of necessity. With local farmers’ markets closing due to the pandemic, our local vendors were facing serious challenge on how and where to sell their products. A couple of friends had just left the board of another market where we had long standing relationships with vendors, so it was not surprising when vendors started reaching out to us in April of 2020 desperately looking for help. We (Curzio Caravati, Mike McTernan, and I) wanted to provide a safe, convenient,and accessible platform for where local vendors could maintain their businesses and livelihoods during the pandemic. We decided that the most efficient way to get vendors up and running was to create an online marketplace for the vendors to list their products for sale where customers could purchase them. We settled on the KPM2GO online store. As we were launching our online store, it immediately came to our attention that we were able to operate a physical market as they were deemed an essential service.
The Kenosha Public Market opened on June 27, 2020, and has become a great success. We offer vendors the opportunity to sell their products, either through the online store or the physical market. We have been able to help local vendors keep their businesses going, while also providing a safe, local, and convenient platform for customers to purchase their products. We are proud of what we have achieved in such a short period of time, and we are looking forward to continuing to grow and develop the Kenosha Public Market.
Q. What has been your biggest challenge and biggest accomplishment since starting the Kenosha Public Market?
A. Since first opening in 2020, the market has been dedicated to providing fresh, healthy, local food options to the community. However, since starting the Kenosha Public Market, the biggest challenge has been operating during the COVID-19 pandemic and abiding by the necessary safety protocols.
The Kenosha Public Market has worked diligently to create a safe environment (both indoors and outside) for customers and vendors alike. We implemented strict safety regulations that include requiring face masks to be worn, perimeter fencing, limiting the number of people who can enter the grounds at one time, and ensuring that social distancing was observed. These regulations had been put in place to ensure the safety of all involved and to help prevent the spread of the virus.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, The Kenosha Public Market has achieved an incredible feat despite the many challenges presented by the pandemic. Through our market, the community has access to healthy, local food options that can be hard to find elsewhere. This is especially important for low-income families who are struggling to make ends meet. To help make it easier for these families to afford nutritious food, the market provides a match program for up to $20 of their Snap food benefits per visit.
The match program is funded through vendor booth fees, and both the vendors and the customers receive compensation for the token match. This program has been incredibly successful, with the market averaging $18k per year in match program contributions. The Kenosha Public Market is proud to be able to provide this service to the community and is dedicated to ensuring that all families have access to healthy, local food options.
The Kenosha Public Market is proud to serve the community and provide access to fresh, nutritious food options. Through our match program, we are striving to make healthy, local food accessible to all, regardless of income. We hope to continue this program and expand our reach in the community, so that everyone can benefit from all the nutrious options the market has to offer every weekend throughout the year.
Q. Can you provide an overview of the Kenosha Public Market and its mission or objectives?
A. KPM’s mission is to provide a diverse marketplace offering locally grown, raised, and produced products along with traditional and gourmet foods and beverages, household items, fresh flowers, community, and artisan crafts.
We are a vibrant Saturday public market located on the shores of Lake Michigan. Both locations have spacious onsite parking! Enjoy an incredible selection of locally grown produce, fresh cut flowers and fruits (seasonal) locally sourced meats, poultry and mushrooms, eggs, cheeses, garlics, jellies/jams, honey, pasta, granola, pantry goods, baked goods, roasted nuts, sauces, dog treats, soaps and lotions, CBD products and more! Marvel at the hand-crafted assortment of one-of-a-kind gifts made by our local artisans.
Our food court offers a wide array of cuisines, from donuts, popcorn to traditional American, Polish, Peruvian, European, and Middle Eastern specialties.
We are excited to be located in Downtown Kenosha year-round as it’s a pedestrian-friendly community where customers can enjoy a whole day’s worth of fun. After visiting our market, explore downtown’s boutique shops and salons, local attractions such as museums, authentic streetcars, historic lighthouses, historic buildings, and neighborhoods. Kenosha Public Market is truly one of the many destinations in downtown Kenosha. The market strives to create a unique shopping experience that strengthens Kenosha’s identity as a vibrant and resilient community. KPM also strives to provide educational opportunities that serve to empower the next generation of farmers, food entrepreneurs, and community activists.
Q. What can people expect each week at the Kenosha Public Market?
A. When it comes to finding the perfect spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment, Kenosha Public Market is the place to be. Located in downtown Kenosha, the Public Market offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Each week, shoppers can expect a variety of unique vendors and activities. The market boasts everything from fresh produce, locally sourced meats and dairy, pantry items, handmade crafts, jewelry, and more. Visitors can also find delicious food, including tacos, soups, sausages, shawarma, and desserts. Plus, there’s a variety of activities for all ages, including live music, artisans, and special events.
Kenosha Public Market is also great for pet owners. On select days, the market hosts ‘We Love Dogs’ events, which allow pet owners to have their picture taken at the market. There are also plenty of seating options, so visitors can relax and enjoy the fresh air while their pets explore the market.
Finally, the market is a friendly, welcoming place for all. The staff at Kenosha Public Market are always happy to answer questions, give advice, and make sure that everyone has a good time. With its variety of vendors, activities, and pet-friendly atmosphere, Kenosha Public Market is the perfect spot for a day of shopping and fun.
Q. What makes your Market stand out from others? Can you describe the process of selecting vendors for the Kenosha Public Market? What criteria do you use?
A. Kenosha Public Market is a place to celebrate local farmers, producers, and artisans, and for consumers to purchase fresh, local products. Kenosha Public Market isn’t about being the largest market, but instead we focus on quality. We understand that a market needs variety to make it a desirable place for consumers, but too much of a good thing can be bad. That’s why we strive to ensure that our vendors don’t over saturate any particular category.
We do this by eliminating duplicity. We make sure that if a particular category, such as Mexican food, is already represented, we won’t allow another vendor to come in and offer the same product. This helps create a diverse and vibrant public market with a variety of goods and the ability to increase their revenue.
Our commitment to quality also means that we only allow vendors to sell products that they’ve grown, produced, or made themselves, other than fair trade products. This guarantees that every product available in the market is fresh and of the highest quality. We also only allow vendors to sell foods that are in season, ensuring customers that they’re always getting the freshest possible products.
We work hard to make sure that Kenosha Public Market is a place where customers can find a good variety of local products in an atmosphere of friendly competition and community. We also strive to keep prices competitive and affordable for our customers.
At Kenosha Public Market, we also strive to create a sense of community by hosting special events, Fall Fest, Merry and Bright Holiday Market, and educational programming. We believe that our market should be more than just a place to buy food, but also a place to learn how to eat healthier, make connections with customers and vendors, and build relationships with others who have the same commitment to provide quality products that will build a healthier community.
KPM2GO makes us stand out from other farmers markets!
KPM2GO is our online farmers’ market store that offers a wide variety of products from local farmers and producers. Customers can choose from a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables (seasonal), dairy products, meats, baked goods, and more. Customers can also order from specialty producers, such as local honey, mushrooms, and pantry items. KPM2GO also offers a selection of artisan goods, such as handmade soaps, candles, and jewelry.
KPM2GO makes it easy for customers to get the freshest produce and products. Customers can order from the website and have their order delivered or picked up on Saturdays at the market. Delivery is now available in Kenosha within a 5-mile radius of the market.
We accept SNAP/EBT for fresh fruits and vegetables (seasonal), bread, meat and any cold prepared foods. When registering as a customer, make sure to select EBT from the drop-down menu so we will know you plan to pay with your EBT card. Make sure to bring your card with you when you pick up your order so can swipe your card when you pick up your order and give you your market match tokens for your next purchase.
Q. From your point of view what makes the Kenosha Public Market so successful year after year?
A. One of the primary factors that make the Kenosha Public Market a success is its wide variety of vendors. The market offers an array of items, from fresh produce to handmade jewelry, and customers can find something for everyone. The market is also home to a variety of food vendors, offering unique and delicious dishes from around the world. With its wide selection of vendors, the Kenosha Public Market offers something for everyone.
The Kenosha Public Market also offers a unique shopping experience. The atmosphere is relaxed, spacious and welcoming, and the vendors are always friendly and helpful. The market is also conveniently located in downtown Kenosha, making it easy to access by car or public transportation. Additionally, the market is open year-round, providing customers with the opportunity to shop for their favorite items no matter the season.
Finally, the Kenosha Public Market is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable shopping experience. The staff also takes the time to get to know their customers and provide helpful advice when needed. This commitment to customer service is one of the reasons why the Kenosha Public Market is so successful.
Overall, the Kenosha Public Market is a great success due to its wide variety of vendors, unique shopping experience, and commitment to customer service. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, handmade jewelry, or delicious food, the Kenosha Public Market has something for everyone. With its convenient location, year-round availability, and commitment to safety, it’s no wonder the Kenosha Public Market is so successful year after year.
Q. What can we expect from the indoor Market at the Kemper Center?
A. If you’re looking for a unique and enjoyable shopping experience, you’ll want to check out the indoor Public Market! Located in a historic setting, we offer shoppers a unique and enjoyable atmosphere to shop for fresh local food.
The market features over 30 vendors each week, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and specialty items. From local microgreens and mushrooms to handmade jewelry and crafts, there’s something for everyone.
Not only does Public Market offer a wide selection of goods, but it also offers shoppers the opportunity to enjoy a meal in the market’s balcony area. Inside the balcony, there are tables and chairs where shoppers can sit down and enjoy lunch while overlooking the bustling market. There are also five hot prepared food vendors, so shoppers can pick up delicious food to go during their shopping experience.
The indoor market also offers customers a unique shopping experience. Many of the vendors offer samples of their goods, so shoppers can taste what they’re buying.
At Kenosha Public Market, shoppers can expect to find fresh, locally sourced, high-quality goods. It’s the perfect place to find all ofyour shopping needs, enjoy a meal, and socialize with other shoppers. Whether you’re looking for a unique shopping experience or want to support local businesses, Kenosha Public Market at the Kemper Center is the place to go.
Q. What can you tell us about the two day Merry & Bright Holiday Market?
A. Merry and Bright Holiday Market is the perfect place to get your Christmas shopping done in one place! Held over two weekends in November and December, you won’t want to miss out on this festive event.
The market offers a diverse selection of unique one-of-a-kind gifts and decorations to fill your home with festive cheer. Whether you’re looking for a special Christmas stocking stuffer for a loved one or a handmade crafted leather item, you’ll find it here. 
In addition to the traditional browsing experience, the Merry and Bright Holiday Market offers a unique take on gift giving. Create your own gift basket full of goodies, giving the recipient an extra special surprise. Shop the market to choose from a selection of knitted hats, handmade soaps, candles, holiday decorations, and more. You can also find holiday treats like homemade cookies, cider, and candy.
The Merry and Bright Holiday Market is the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit and get all your Christmas shopping done in one place. Don’t miss out on this festive event!
The Merry and Bright Holiday Market runs over two weekends: Saturday and Sunday November 25 and 26, and December 2 and 3, from 10am to 2pm. Come join us, and Santa Claus, for a weekend of festive fun and find the perfect gifts for the special people in your life.
Q. Earlier this year news broke about the Kenosha Public Market building 8,668 sq multi story building in downtown Kenosha w/ a full-service-grocery store along w/ kitchen space for vendors to rent, is there any progress on this plan? And if so, when can we expect this to be fully operated and open?
A. The Kenosha Public Market, parent company, Public Food Markets Inc., is excited to announce plans to break ground in 2024 on a two-store building in the downtown Kenosha. The building will house a commercial kitchen with cold and dry storage for rent, a full grocery store and food hall, and the Visit Kenosha organization will be renting space on the second floor.
The Kenosha Public Market has been in the works for some time and the plan commission approved the project in May of 2023. The team behind the market has been hard at work on the final drawings, and they are confident that the project is ready to move forward.
The building will be a two-story structure. The lower level will be home to the commercial kitchen with cold and dry storage. This space will be available for rent to local businesses who need additional food storage and preparation space. The first floor of the building will be the home to a full grocery store and food hall. The grocery store will feature a grab-and-go section featuring products made by locally prepared food vendors. The Visit Kenosha organization will be renting space on the second floor as well.
This is an exciting new project for Public Food Markets, Inc. and the City of Kenosha, and its completion is sure to be a great addition to the downtown district. The team behind the project is confident that the Public Food Market Grocery Store will be a great success and great asset to the City of Kenosha.
Q. Thank you Laura for your time, I just have one more question I’d like to ask, why is there two outdoor farmers markets in downtown kenosha?
A. When customers ask why there are two large farmers markets operated by different organizations so close to each other, the answer is simple: variety. In Kenosha, the two farmers’ markets, the Kenosha Public Market, and the Kenosha HarborMarket, offer distinct features that appeal to a variety of customers.
The Kenosha Public Market’s outdoor market is open each Saturday and is located at the downtown lakefront directly across the street from the harbor. It offers a large open space for customers to stroll around, enjoy our unique food court and enjoy views of the Kenosha harbor. It also allows dogs, which is attractive to pet owners. The indoor market is located on the lake in the historic Kemper Center Simmons Auditorium. During the holidays you can enjoy Christmas at Durkee Mansion and the Gallery of Trees while visiting the market.
So, when someone asks, why are there two large farmers’ markets in downtown Kenosha, we tell them that both are good for the community. The friendly competition between them encourages innovation and keeps prices low at our market, while also providing an array of products to local shoppers. The increased foot traffic helps to stimulate the local economy in the downtown area, and the variety of products offered ensures that everyone can find something they like.
Visit the indoor Kenosha Public Market at the Kemper Center (6501 3rd Ave.) every Saturday 10am-2pm Nov. 4th – April 27th 2024
For the most up to date info visit kenoshapublicmarket.com
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Q&A by Donny Stancato
Photos submitted by Laura Belsky & Donny Stancato
Check out the current Go Downtown Kenosha Magazine CLICK HERE https://bit.ly/1GoDtMG2023
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For everything Kenosha see visitkenosha.com
(This article first appeared s in Vol.16 #4 2023/24 of the Go Downtown Kenosha Magazine)
