Four community conversations are planned in the coming weeks to give Elkhart residents a chance to discuss the future of Tolson Center.

The meetings, open to all members of the public, will happen from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Sep. 6, 11, 13 and 18.

Philip Thomas, who has more than 25 years experience in conflict prevention, transformation and peace-building, will facilitate the conversation.

The conversations on Sep. 6 and 13 will take place at Pierre Moran Middle School, 200 W. Lusher Ave.

The events on Sep. 11 and 18 are scheduled for IUSB Elkhart Center, 125 E. Franklin St.

“We want to hear from everyone who is interested in assuring Tolson Center is an asset that helps our community in the best way possible,” said Levon Johnson, president of the Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce. Johnson is co-chairing a 10-person committee with Pete McCown, president of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County, to focus on Tolson’s future.

The center closed this summer after a majority of the Elkhart City Council voted not to continue funding through the end of the year. Prior to the vote, dozens of people voiced their hopes to the city council for its continued operation. The city of Elkhart has operated Tolson for 25 years, primarily as a youth center.

The group has met several times and is having wide-ranging conversations to examine all potential uses for the city property to meet needs in the community, particularly for youth and senior citizens.

It hopes to make a recommendation to Mayor Tim Neese on findings and potential uses by October.