Hutto's Gin building will prioritize certified farmers markets

The Gin building in Hutto's Co-Op District will have a preferred use for certified farmers markets, following City Council's vote at its Jan. 23 meeting.

The background

The Hutto Co-Op is a 35-acre mixed-use development off of Hwy. 79 and acts as the site of city hall. As a part of the overall development, the historic cotton gin building transformed into a market space for events and festivals.

The city completed the 7,800-square-foot building in 2016 as the first structure at the Co-Op. Formerly hosting programming and events until 2019 under the ownership of MA Partners, the city approved the transfer of the building in January 2024 and since worked to reprogram the community space.

The update

Certified farmers markets must apply for the designation with the Texas Department of Agriculture and follow the department's guidelines.

City Council voted unanimously for certified farmers market to take preference when reserving space in the Gin building. The markets can book time from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. any day throughout the year, and can schedule recurring events.

Using the Gin building as a preferred space gives markets a reliable, weatherproof location and boosts foot traffic to the Co-Op as it continues to develop into a retail hub, according to city officials.