Central Gardens hires part-time executive director

Central Gardens of North Iowa, Inc. has named a part-time executive director. Jody Hamilton, Clear Lake, began her duties on Dec. 1.

“We are excited to have someone of Jody’s experience, expertise, and dedication to help us meet the demands of our growing Gardens,” said Robert “Chip” Kinsey, board president.

Hamilton, a native of New Hampton, served as business manager at Comprehensive Systems in Charles City, Iowa for 12 years, and then as a city clerk/finance officer in Charles City and Knoxville, Iowa for a total of 24 years and at an Omaha hospital for three years.

Besides volunteering at the Surf Ballroom and the Clear Lake Arts Center, Hamilton is also president-elect of the Clear Lake Rotary Club.

“I just love Clear Lake, and having this opportunity to be executive director of this beautiful, regional public gardens is a dream come true,” said Hamilton.

Hamilton is the first paid executive director for the organization in a number of years.  Her duties will focus on fund-raising, membership expansion, and continued beautification of the Gardens.