“We’re hoping to get 10,000 or more visitors in town for our annual Fourth of July event which is the cornerstone of the 250th recognition,” he said. “Obviously, weather and other circumstances will determine that, but we feel like there is a lot of anticipation for that and other opportunities for residents to be involved in.”

The Gowrie Development Commission is also planning again for a big Christmas celebration the first week of December in accordance with the town’s observance of the nation’s semiquinncentennial, he added. “There will also be many outings at the golf course including the annual Swingin’ Fore Soldiers tournament that Katelyn Johnson has been at the forefront of for many years and other plans in the works from individuals and organizations around town,” he said.

Towne, in his sixth year as Gowrie mayor, also pointed out two key improvements that are ongoing.

“There is an expansion of the city limits through ground annexation which is bringing in a Dollar General franchise,” he said. “A new business is obviously bringing in a lot of anticipation from residents, as it doesn’t happen too often.”

“The GDC is working on a catalyst grant to do major improvements on our grocery store,” he added. “We’re hopeful for that approval, as several area communities have lost their store which is honestly a lynchpin for a town.”

Beyond those positives, Towne noted a strong downtown clean-up push of dilapidated buildings, getting more business into empty storefronts including a new coffee boutique, and an influx of enthusiasm on the City Council with three new members.

“I feel like we have a lot to offer,” he said. “There is definitely a banner year ahead for us.”