Marion’s new city administrator is settling in
Staff writer
Moving from Florida to a small town in Kansas has been a change for Marion’s new city administrator and his wife.
Although he moved here after working in Colorado and Florida as a transportation director, Bryan Wells is no stranger to Kansas. He was born in Emporia and grew up in Olathe.
He and his wife arrived June 11. He started his duties with the city June 16.
The Wellses live in a camper for the time being but are searching for a house.
He said he’s been “pretty satisfied” with settling into his living arrangements and Marion, where he’s found people pleasant and welcoming.
His biggest challenge so far is learning everybody’s names — not just in the city office, but in the community.
Wells has been making the rounds of the community to meet people.
He’s been impressed with the team of city employees he works with.
“Everybody’s been friendly,” Wells said. “I drove every street when I was here for my meet and greet.”
Wells has ridden on tours with city inspector James Masters to look at houses and toured the city water plant.
He’s also been exploring the region, seeing things outside the confines of town, although he hasn’t yet gone to outlying towns.
After learning people’s names, Wells’ next big challenge will be to finish the city budget.
He looks for new challenges after that.
“I hope there are some, because I like to keep busy,” Wells said.
He’s been looking at specific projects to be worked on.
Mayor Mike Powers is interested in a community splash pad.
A grant deadline is next month.
“You’re better off to plan,” Wells said. “You don’t have to do it as an emergency.”
He said he also wanted to stretch city resources as far as possible.