Northampton Farmers Market approaches its opening in May with major changes - providing not just shopping for produce and other items, but also a destination of sorts. Northampton Borough Council, at its Feb. 21 meeting, was given a glimpse of what the outdoor market has in store.

Victor Rodite, community planner, whose idea for a farmers market blossomed into reality, is stepping aside and going to concentrate his time on writing grant applications. Councilman Robert McHale said this would be a better benefit to the borough. Rodite will aid in the transition to a successor.

Borough Manager LeRoy Brobst said council will select an individual in a unpaid position to head the farmers market.

At the March 7 borough council meeting, Pat Knopf was named the new farmers market manager.

As part of preparing for the opening, Northampton Area High School’s marketing class will utilize technology in drawing up plans for the market, much of their input coming before the farmers market begins.

Rodite said the market opening up this year is exciting, in regard to what plans are in store for the community.

Supplementing the produce stands and other vendors will be entertainment, demonstrations and programs, allowing the public to have more on their plate than just locally grown produce. Crafts may also be incorporated into the mix.

In order to better inform the public of the farmers market, door hangers, fliers, the Internet and social media may be utilized, reducing costs of advertising for the farmers market. The production of bags bearing the farmers market logo is another avenue being explored.

Councilman Anthony Lopsonzski Sr. lauded the direction the farmers market operation is going.

The market operates 3-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, May 14-Oct. 1, at Municipal Park, Laubach Avenue and Smith Lane. This is the sixth year for the market, which moved to this location after three years on Main Street.