You have no doubt heard me champion the countless benefits of agritourism over the years, so you likely won’t be shocked by this hat tip to the Manatee County commissioners.
Two years ago, Central Florida Ag News brought you a feature on East Bradenton’s iconic Mixon Fruit Farms shutting its doors after 84 years in business. Dean and Janet Mixon cited staffing difficulties, citrus diseases, and hurricane damage as key factors that led to the heartbreaking decision to close the beloved agritourism site.
But the story doesn’t end there.
Thanks to a unanimous vote July 29, Manatee County Commissioners have approved the county’s $13.5 million purchase of the 39-acre Mixon Fruit Farms property, preserving it as the irreplaceable gem that it is.
Commissioner Amanda Ballard spearheaded the push to purchase the property, calling it “truly a once-in-a-liftime opportunity to preserve the legacy of citrus growing in Manatee County right in the middle of our urban core.”
She continued to say that she’s most excited about the opportunity to preserve the agricultural heritage of the land and carry on the farming legacy as well as train a new generation of Manatee County farmers. Ballard says leasing microfarms and microgardens on the property could help younger generations interested in farming but lacking the funds to purchase their own land.
Molly White, Director of Sports and Leisure Services for Manatee County, outlined plans to maintain the property’s use as a wedding venue, while also using it for vendor markets, community gatherings, and seasonal celebrations.
“This investment positions us to preserve a beloved local landmark while creating a sustainable space that enhances community engagement and access to public services,” she said.
Additional plans referenced during the meeting call for ag education and library services on-site.
Dean Mixon voiced his appreciation, saying many of the proposed ideas were ones he and Janet had considered. “We just ran out of steam,” he said.
“We look forward to working with you on making this happen,” Janet told the Commission.
Bravo to Ballard and the rest of the County Commissioners for seizing this opportunity to protect a piece of Florida’s agricultural history and ensuring it will remain a valued agricultural asset.