I just read about the possible closing of Branches Garden Center and would like to support my local small businesses and strengthen the economic health of my community.

Branches has been my local and friendly source for filling my garden needs for as long as they have been open as a business at the corner of 320th Street and Military Road near my home. How counter-productive the requirement for a specific inferior material for their roof. The building is very safe and open to the outdoors on three out of four sides of the building. If there is a fire, the roof would melt rather than spread.

It is hard enough to make a profit as a small business owner without requiring a more expensive, less effective temporary roof (only good for 12 months) for growing plants in a greenhouse. I plan to be in attendance at Branches’ hearing at 2 p.m. April 18 at City Hall. I hope a large group of citizens will come out and show their support for Branches.

Marie-Anne Harkness, Auburn