His first job was as a clerk at a video store in a strip mall. He now heads the DeKalb Community Complex, located, as fate would have it, in the same building where the video store used to be located.

“We want to try to bring new things,” said newly named director Josh Melton, the accomplished theatrical producer and actor appointed to the position recently by a unanimous vote by the county commission. “We want to include as many people in the community as we can and try to have something for everybody.”

Melton emerged as the county’s hire from a field of 12 hopefuls. He took over as director last Monday and immediately began expanding the center’s horizons. “The first thing I did was book a free Zumba class for April 2,” he revealed, noting he wants to offer regular Zumba as well as yoga and spin classes at the facility. “We have a nice fitness center and numerous things for exercise.”

The facility’s fitness center costs $20 a month to join or you may pay $3 per visit for the room that contains numerous cardio-fitness machines as well as weights. Melton added that he also wants to look into setting up a three-on-three basketball league for the basketball gym portion of the building.

Melton plans to use his expertise in the theatrical community to bring in acts and plays that the community will enjoy.

“We have wonderful facilities for theatrical groups, concerts and art expositions,” he said, pointing to the large multiple purpose room that is available to rent for $300, making it an affordable option for bands, plays and gatherings.

In addition to his new day job, Melton heads the DeKalb Performing Arts Company which is now doing its plays in not only Smithville but also at the Park Theater in McMinnville. Their recent presentations of Lion King and Steel Magnolias were overwhelming successes and he hopes he can bring that promotional acumen to his new job as director.

“A lot has to do with getting the word out there of how many things we offer here,” Melton said, noting his plans later this year could include establishing an autumn street fair at the complex.