2002 in review years ago
Following are the top stories which were covered in the Marion County Record in 2002.
Local landfill issue laid to rest — After lying dormant for more than a year, the issue of a possible local landfill was explored by the City of Marion. It generated much controversy. In a 357-258 advisory vote on March 5, the town's citizens opposed such a move. The issue was dropped from consideration.
Transfer station purchased — After yearlong negotiations, Marion County Commissioners signed a contract Nov. 12 to purchase the transfer station from KC Development for $825,000. The purchase was financed through sale of bonds. The bonds will be paid off using monthly fees collected from every household and business in the county.
Marion City Library relocated — The relocated Marion City Library was dedicated July 14. Its new home is the renovated former Santa Fe Depot. Private citizens contributed more than $100,000 toward the project. $600,000 came from a federal and state grant.
Hospital celebrated 50 years — St. Luke Hospital celebrated its 50th anniversary as a publicly-supported facility.
Main Street revitalized — A Neighborhood Revitalization Project was approved. It grants tax abatements to individuals and businesses which improve properties along or within one block of Main Street from First to Thorp.
Industrial park readied — The first developed tract of Batt Industrial Park was dedicated June 18. The area has new streets and utilities and is ready for businesses.
Fire districts formed — The Lost Springs Fire Department, made up of volunteers from the city and township of Lost Springs, re-organized as Lost Springs Fire District #6.
The Tampa Fire Department, which includes the city of Tampa and Tampa, Blaine, and Clark townships, re-organized to form Tampa Fire District #7.
Other top stories
Highway improved — A realigned stretch of U.S.-56/77 highway between Lincolnville and the north Marion County line was completed.
Church renovated — The interior of Pilsen's St. John Nepomucene Roman Catholic Church received a complete renovation, including new carpeting, paint job, and enhanced decor.
A documentary on the life of Father Kapaun included a filming at the Pilsen church in which Archbishop Phillip M. Hannan of Focus World Network, New Orleans, La., interviewed Herbert Miller of Pulaski, N.Y. Miller was the man who was the injured soldier Father Kapaun rescued from Communist troops during the Korean War. The documentary is one step in the effort to secure Kapaun's designation as a saint.
Bank robbed again — Pilsen State Bank, Lincolnville, was robbed the second time in six months. The story was covered nationwide.
Meyer received award — Editor Bill Meyer received an international award. The Eugene Cervi Award was presented to him by the International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors. The award was given in recognition of life-long achievement in journalism.
