Chalkboards to City Hall: A Historic Renovation in Progress

Welcome to the first episode of The Hall Monitors podcast! Since our podcast name honors City Hall’s past as a former schoolhouse, we’re starting by exploring the building’s unique history and its long-awaited renovation. Mayor Rick Walker, who once walked these halls as a junior high student, joins us to share memories from the old school days, how the City bought the building for just $10, and why now is the time for a full-scale renovation. Key Topics Covered From School to City Hall – The evolution of a De Soto landmark Renovation Rundown – What’s changing, what’s staying, and what it means for residents Preserving the Past – How the city is keeping the building’s history alive A special thanks to the De Soto Historical Society for sharing historic photos that bring this story to life!   Host: Whitney Lange, City Communications Director Guest: Mayor Rick Walker