“They’re all about bringing community together,” Francisco said of farmers markets. “It’s a cultural experience for the young kids. It gives them a taste of where produce comes from.”

He said the schedule, vendors and other details have not been set, but he doesn’t expect the fees charged to vendors to cover his expenses. He said he’s willing to help subsidize the market to distinguish Lakeside from other retail areas of Henrico.

He sees a farmers market as a natural companion to nearby Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, the county’s efforts to revitalize Lakeside and its mom-and-pop businesses.

“New businesses start off pretty fragile,” said Francisco, whose family used to own Lakeside Appliance. “Anything you can do to give them something extra” is good.

Lora Spicer, who has lived in Lakeside for nearly 50 years, agrees a farmers market would be an asset.

She heard about Francisco’s plans last month when he spoke about Lakeside’s past and future to the Hamlet Women’s Club.

Members of the group were so excited about the idea that they started petitions in support of the request. Nearly 100 signatures were forwarded to county officials last week.