The City Council in Walnut, Tuesday evening, adopted a Lease Agreement the Community Center, with regard to Family, Incorporated. Walnut Mayor Gene Larsen told KJAN News the Community Center is “doing very well,” and that Family, Inc. will be the first long-term tenant to occupy the building. They’re a family assistance organization that was formerly based in Avoca. They will serve the entire area. Larsen says the City expects to eventually have numerous long-term leases from various entities to occupy space in the building.

The Community Center, which in its former life served as the town’s school, “Is doing very well” to promote itself, according to Larsen. He said they are developing a kitchen, with two main halls and two small spaces being rented more often now, and they expect to develop a Fitness Center in the building as well. He says they expect it to be the hub of the town and a great service to the community. The Walnut City Council also discussed issues with staffing the Welcome Center.

Larsen said their biggest concern right now is trying to find someone to run the Welcome Center, as the previous person has resigned. The Welcome Center, which has public restrooms downtown, is very important to the community. Larsen says “It’s hard to find volunteers who are willing to work for nothing. And, this is a big responsibility.” He says it’s not the City Council’s responsibility to find someone, but it does affect the City, so they’re working hard to try and fill the position.

The Mayor said also, the Council discussed RAGBRAI. He said the citizens are excited to have the throngs of riders make their way into town. There’ll be 10 vendors, entertainment and so on. “It ought to be a good time,” he says. Mayor Larsen also announced the window for submitting paperwork for persons wanting to run for his seat or City Council. He says there are two Council seats up for vote in November. Larsen hasn’t decided yet if he will run for re-election.