Douglas County commissioners at their meeting today will consider creating a food policy council to advise them on strengthening a local food system.

Commissioner Nancy Thellman has proposed the idea for the council made up of representatives from the agricultural, health and business communities, including people affiliated with social service agencies and Kansas and Kansas State universities.

According to a memo to commissioners by Emily Jackson, the county’s management intern, the advisory board would make recommendations on issues related to food policy, food security and economic development related to the local food system.

The memo also asks for a $10,000 startup budget. The budget would allow for several council members to attend an October conference in Des Moines, Iowa, and fund educational events with guest speakers, Web site development and grant writing.

Commissioners will meet at 4 p.m. at the Douglas County Courthouse, 1100 Mass.