Title
Informational Presentation Regarding Garver Feed Mill Operations at Olbrich Park (District 15)
Body
Garver Feed Mill was built in 1906 and designated as a local landmark in 1994. In 1997, Olbrich Botanical Society acquired the Garver Feed Mill and approximately five acres of land surrounding it, which is now referred to as the Olbrich North Parcel. Following strong public support to rehabilitate the building, the City established the Garver Building Reuse Committee in 2006 to develop guiding criteria and solicit proposals for reuse of the Garver property. The City and OBS agreed to a land swap in 2009, which transferred ownership of the Garver North Parcel to the Parks Division. Due to an economic recession in 2008-2009, the originally selected developer withdrew their proposal in 2011. In 2014, the Garver Building Reuse Committee was reconstituted and led a robust public engagement process, which resulted in Baum Development being selected to purchase the building for $1.00, develop the site, and enter into a ground lease with the City for adaptive reuse of the building for public purposes.
The fully restored Garver Feed Mill was opened in 2019. Garver Feed Mill is now an event venue programmed by Garver Events and home to a collection of producers, artisan food makers, wellness studios and hospitality providers. In 2025, Garver reported an estimated direct economic impact of approximately $17.9 million.
Representatives from Garver Feed Mill will provide an informational presentation to the Board of Park Commissioners regarding current operations.