Leander Mayor Chris Fielder wasn't sure there would be much response when the Greater Leander Chamber of Commerce asked him to speak at a quarterly roundtable for residents. However, the inaugural Lunch with the Mayor on March 8 drew more than two dozen community members who engaged in dialogue about issues facing the city.

"I was expecting just a few people, but it's great to see we have a very good number," Fielder said. "It benefits me to personally interact with members of the community just as much as it benefits those folks who have a reason to come."

During lunch at Shea's Place, Fielder presented a map of Leander's planned neighborhoods as a platform for speaking about growth. Attendees also raised questions about other topics including transportation, economic development and the Leander Professional Firefighters Association's pursuit of civil service status.

Newly selected Chamber President Bridget Brandt, who will officially begin working in April, said the organization wanted to create a new way for residents to have a dialogue with the mayor.

"It's an opportunity to bring people together in a forum to talk about important issues," she said. "Anyone can come, and we will keep it about the same size with a maximum of 30 people at each quarterly meeting."

Fielder said he plans to continue hosting the event at locally owned restaurants. The next Lunch with the Mayor is scheduled for June.