Decadence,
starting a Local or a Colony of a National is a butt/back breaking situation. But, it is well worth it when say I have after 38 years still see it continuing. It is especially gratifing when you go back to functions to see The Brothers/Sisters who dug in the dirt to plant a seed!
A lot depends on how many members you have to decide if Seniors can or should be Officers. Usually the older people are a more stabilizing factor. The new members must learn from the older hands.
I know that in some chapters that are small, some of the New Associates must take on the cloak of an Officer to fill that position. It is a tuff job, but that is the time that All Members work together.
The Very Best of Luck in your endevor!