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The Arlington City Council approved a 10-year lease agreement , with two five-year options to renew , with Taste Project for the restaurant location . The nonprofit plans to renovate the building , formerly used by the Water Utilities Department and the Arlington Public Library , into a 100-plus seat full-service restaurant that includes a production kitchen , culinary classroom and headquarter office . “ We are excited to partner with Taste Project to ensure good food for everyone ,”
“ The organization ’ s unique approach to helping those in need , while building community , makes it a great fit for the City of Arlington .”
-Jim Ross , Mayor
Addressing food insecurity for Arlington residents is a top priority as well . According to the 2020-2024 HUD Consolidated Plan for the City of Arlington , low and moderate-income individuals and households typically do not have regular access to healthy food because they lack adequate transportation and affordable healthy food choices .
Additionally , Taste Project offers culinary training programs where its graduates receive job placement at $ 15 an hour on average .
According to the Department of Labor , entry level food service positions , typically in fast food , start between minimum wage and $ 11 per hour . But adults with certified training can obtain living wage positions in full-service and fine dining restaurants , and production kitchens — which is an expanding marketplace and a growing need for Arlington businesses , Taste Project leaders say .
Annual Report 2023 • 7