It’s of paramount importance that those who wish to see additional grocery options in Farmville attend and become involved in the town-hall style listening forums officials with Longwood University and the Farmville Downtown Partnership (FDP) have planned with The Pulse Group.

For those who’ve been clamoring for another option for purchasing groceries, now is the time to become involved in this crucial part of the process.

According to a press release from Longwood University, the university’s Office of Community and Economic Development and the FDP have been working with a market analysis and strategic planning firm to recruit a boutique grocery to Midtown Square in downtown Farmville in the current location of Longwood’s bookstore, which will soon move to the corner of Third and Main streets.

University officials say at least one company in the boutique grocery business has expressed serious interest in the idea, “and the project is entering an important next phase with a series of town hall-style listening forums to solicit public input.”

According to Pulse Group partner Kim Royster, who’s leading the analysis, officials are working on a compressed time frame “to take advantage of some of the great momentum Farmville has right now … We are eager to hear from as many members of the community as possible in the week ahead to shape our evaluation of the viability of a downtown store or market.”

The momentum can only gain steam and continue on a forward march toward another option for purchasing groceries if members of the community become involved.

The forums will be held Aug. 9 from 4-5:30 p.m. and 6-7:30 p.m. at the Farmville Train Station, located at 510 W. Third St., and Aug. 10 from 4-5:30 p.m. and 6-7:30 p.m. at the South Street Conference Center, located at 124 N. South St.

According to the release, The Pulse Group has established a website to share ideas and vision for the market at www.farmvillemarket.proboards.com.