NATCHEZ — Need a walking buddy?

Well, Natchez Mayor Darryl Grennell is looking for a few.

Grennell launched a couple of weeks ago a fitness initiative that includes a weekly lunchtime walk starting at City Hall.

Most of the walk’s participants are currently city employees, but Grennell said he hopes local residents will join each week for the 30-minute walk.

The city currently offers multiple wellness programs in partnership with the Clinton Foundation’s Health Matters Initiative and Humana.

Grennell said he was inspired by the healthy programs to offer another opportunity for residents to participate in health lifestyle activities.

“My position was why not expand it and get people really actively involved in fitness,” he said. “We are hoping we can get people in the community to join forces with us.”

Walkers depart from City Hall every Friday at noon and are back by 12:30 p.m., Grennell said.

The walk generally keeps a brisk pace, but walkers are welcome to participate at any speed they choose, Grennell said.

Grennell looks to gradually expand the walking program to two days each week and eventually three days.

Grennell said he thinks it is important for the city’s leaders to set a good example for a healthy living.

“We are supposed to be the role models for the community,” he said. “If your citizens see you out there exercising, it will make them motivated to get more involved in fitness and nutrition.”