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KEOSAUQUA, IOWA -- The Van Buren County Hospital will open its doors Monday to its brand new Community Service Center.

Sunday was the official ribbon cutting ceremony and many attended to show their support.

Once the ribbon was cut, people started rushing inside to get the first look inside the Community Service Center.

The $2.2 million building was designed to house the hospital’s childcare center, Healthy Villages, Headstart, Wick, Parents as Teachers Program, occupational health, an optometry clinic, job opportunities and a conference room to be used by the public.

“Each of these programs and agencies and departments has filled the vital need for residents of the community. Each has for a number of years functioning in spaces not designed for it and not adequate to meet the needs of the clients served,” said Lisa Schnedler, Hospital Administrator.

The center offers essential services that today’s families depend upon.

“Here in Keosauqua, people can see the support this community and this county gives to families with this facility,” said St. Rep. Curt Hanson.

And after 20 years, the hospital board’s dream of having all these services under one roof has finally come true. And this building is made to stand the test of time.

“This building incorporates some of the most environmentally friendly and responsible construction in terms of the materials that were used including paints and coatings and sealings that don’t give off fumes that are harmful for those who occupy the building,” said Rick Kuhl, architect.

Board members said that everyone coming together and giving generously was what made this dream become a reality. Some of the big donors include USDA, Keosauqua Power and Light Co., and the local bank Community First Bank.