Things to consider
By JAMI WILLIAMS
Marion economic development director
I have been hearing so many negative things about Marion lately that I feel it is time to reflect on the positive instead of the negative. I am very fortunate to be able to see the world through rose-colored glasses.
I think great things are happening in Marion. I think this is the best place I have seen to live, play, work, learn, and retire. I think we have one of the most beautiful parks in the state, and despite everything else, I feel the people of Marion are the friendliest, most generous people I've ever met.
I think businesses are serious about expanding and improving the quality of life in Marion. I think the current city administration and USD 408 agree that now is the time to invest in our future.
One candidate for the city council race said that Marion high school graduates leave after graduation and never come back. Consider the fact that every candidate running for city council has children or step-children living in Marion or the surrounding area. Marion must not be that bad!
Another candidate suggested that you should seek accurate information about how the city operates.
Consider the fact that there are lots of comments about things the administration has done in the past; yet very few, if any, people have come into the city office to confirm or disprove any of them.
The majority of the information is not originating from the city office. If you have questions or want clarification on any claims you have heard, stop by the city office or call 382-3703.
Six candidates were in favor of the school bond issue; one candidate was opposed; and one candidate answered the question by saying the voters will have to decide.
Consider the facts about the USD 408 building project.
Our more than 50-year-old metal pool (one of the few metal pools remaining in the state) could rust out and spring an irreparable leak — and have to be replaced at the full price of $3 million, which could cause a mill levy increase.
Or, we could get a much-needed pool at a savings of 32 percent by voting "yes" on the bond issue. The new pool will be accessible for 12 months out of each year instead of three. People of all ages will benefit.
Consider the fact that we could get a much-needed ADA-compatible sunken gymnasium, with two practice courts and a walking track at a savings of 32 percent.
A new gymnasium would open up a wide range of possibilities for future events that could be held at USD 408, which would bring people to our area. This also would solve the increasing problem of scheduling practice times for middle school and high school activities.
Residents of Marion would have a safe, climate-controlled area to walk for exercise.
Consider the fact that we could get a much-needed acoustically sound, spacious auditorium at a savings of 32 percent.
A new auditorium will save time, energy, and fuel caused by busing kids to the current city auditorium to practice for various performances.
Consider the wear and tear on music instruments and the time involved in loading 30+ students onto a bus to practice at the city auditorium. While the acoustics in the existing facility were probably state-of-the art more than 50 years ago, times have changed and we need to upgrade to the 21st century. It is time to invest in our future.
Consider the fact that building these three facilities would cause no increase to your current mill levy, but would greatly improve the accommodations of our school and local communities.
Consider the fact that when people move to rural areas they look at the school system to make their final decision about whether or not to relocate.
Consider the fact that this is economic development and Marion is ready for positive growth.
Consider what the city council candidates have done for the City of Marion in the past and what positive plans they have for future growth.
Consider the fact that you have to invest in your community to reap benefits from your community.
Consider the fact that the City of Marion is in better financial shape now than they have been in several years.
Consider the fact that every person, every attitude, every complaint, and every compliment you hear has a direct impact on our community.
And most importantly, consider why you decided to make Marion your home and let's keep Marion moving in a positive direction.
