Marion Economic Development, Inc. has set these goals for this year.

• Sale or long-term lease of speculative building at industrial park.
• City auditorium renovation — the budget is being finalized and an application has been sent to the state for tax credits.
• New industrial, commercial, and manufacturing ventures at industrial park.
• Put E-Community funds to work. New and small businesses need to be made aware of funding opportunities.
• Marion signage — signs have been ordered.
• Downtown invigoration — monetary and community incentives need to be implemented to make the downtown structures cleaner and more attractive.
• Create youth center and organization — renovation of the building at 1220 E. Main St. continues.
• Establish a PRIDE or similar organization. There must be additional community involvement and action to beautify and make lifestyle improvements to the city.
• Support additional school functions. Schools are the lifeblood of a community, Marion Economic Development Director Doug Kjellin said. The upcoming sub-state basketball tournament in March needs support similar to the Marion Classic basketball tournament.
• Support existing businesses. A more active approach needs to be taken in advertising and promoting local businesses.
• Improve/increase motel accommodations.
• Develop an apartment complex.
• Support hometown competitiveness program.
• Create MEDI Web site.

Other goals included a new retirement center, an alternative energy project, and to assist in filling vacant wing at Marion County Special Education Cooperative building.