Lone Tree

During last week’s Lone Tree City Council meeting, the council was informed that the community dining program needs a cook. Members also learned that the health department has given the program until April 2 to find someone and have them certified.

The program’s cook recently resigned, and a volunteer and substitute cooks have been filling in. However, during a recent visit, the health department notified the program that it must have a cook with ServSafe certification.

After discussing the situation for some time, the council voted 3-1 to shut down senior dining if a cook cannot be hired and certified by April 2. Council members Matt Zadow and Nicholas Gluba made and seconded the motion.

The city originally posted the job opening on its website Sept. 3, listing hours of 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., along with paid holidays and IPERS benefits. The city later updated the listing and posted it again Oct. 27.

Community dining has been part of Lone Tree for years and plays a significant role in the community. Its closure would be a difficult loss for many who support and participate in the program. For many, it provides a sense of comfort and a chance to share a meal with close friends they consider family. 

Each day, the program serves fresh, hot meals to community members. Its monthly menu is available on the city’s website, showing what will be served throughout the month. One day might feature cheeseburgers with baked beans, followed a few days later by chili dogs with mixed vegetables or sloppy joes and chips. Desserts include ice cream, pies, pudding and much more.

Lone Tree community dining offers both dine-in and carryout meals, with delivery available for an additional $1. Meals cost $6 each, and participants can purchase 10 meal tickets for $60.

Anyone interested in applying for the open cook position can visit the city’s website or call City Hall for more information. The next cook could help keep a beloved community program from shutting down.