Personal Stories & Perspectives on the History of Walnut Creek
(l-r) Moderator Bob Linscheid, president & CEO, Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce, stands with panelists Angie Coffee, past board chair; Bill Armstrong, former mayor; Lynne Leach, past board chair; and hosting Chamber Board Chair Matt Guichard. Not pictured: Sue Rainey, former mayor.
The Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau celebrates its centennial in April 2026. In preparation for this milestone, the Chamber hosted a special Civic Affairs Forum in the Oak View Room of the Walnut Creek Library exploring our city's rich history through historical photographs and the stories of former mayors and board chairs who shared intriguing insights into Walnut Creek's development and success. The entire 90-minute forum was recorded.
Moderated by Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Bob Linscheid, the panel included Bill Armstrong, former mayor; Angie Coffee, past board chair; Lynne Leach, past board chair; and Sue Rainey, former mayor. Welcoming remarks were shared by immediate Past Board Chair Matt Guichard, Guichard, Teng & Garrett.
The engaging introductory History of Walnut Creek in Photos video was produced by Matt Bolender, City of Walnut Creek.
Bob Linscheid kicked off the panel discussion with introductions and opening remarks. “As we approach the 100th anniversary of the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce in 2026, today’s forum offers us a unique opportunity to connect our rich history with an ambitious vision for Walnut Creek’s future,” said Bob. “By bringing our past mayors and past board chairs together, with our engaged community, we create a powerful moment in time to reflect on pivotal decisions that transformed Walnut Creek from a small agricultural community to the vibrant city we know today.”
Each panelist spoke about their connections to Walnut Creek and the challenges and rewards of being in leadership positions during many of Walnut Creek’s decisive years. Q&A followed with inspired comments—and surprising revelations—about being a part of Walnut Creek through change, challenges, and transformation. The 90-minute video can be viewed here.
Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau
1280 Civic Drive, Suite 100, Walnut Creek
925.934.2007