A commission focused on physical activity throughout life as well as nutrition and food systems met for the first time Tuesday afternoon. The community-wide effort is called the Washington County Wellness Commission. Representatives from Washington County Public Health, Washington County Hospital and Clinics, JET Physical Therapy, the City of Kalona, HACAP, Highland schools, Washington schools and KCII News were in attendance. The meeting was facilitated by Washington County Public Health. The group brainstormed ways to increase physical activity locally and increase healthy eating habits. Ideas like strengthening farmers markets around the county, community gardens, group exercise classes for all ages and park amenities were discussed.

The commission was created following the Community Health Needs Assessment conducted last summer in Washington, where approximately 40 organizations, health officials and community members discussed current gaps in health in the county.