Alive and kicking
Finally — signs of life. Hats off to Eloise Mueller for taking the initiative to approach Marion City Commission about a change in city government. The idea — changing to a mayor and four-member council — is worth considering.
The idea deserves careful analysis and input from residents. It's not a decision that should be left up to the existing city commission. Commissioners told Mueller and others present at last week's meeting they would "take the matter under advisement."
While the commission thinks about it, Mueller and other interested residents are spreading the word, educating others about the process, and getting the ball rolling on making the change.
As Bill Holdeman said, five heads are better than three. Five opinions, five ways of looking at an issue. With five members on a council it might keep accountability in the forefront and complacency and a laissez faire attitude in the background. In other words, it might keep council members on their toes.
Considering that the City of Marion is one of a handful that still operate with an antiquated form of government, it's no wonder we sometimes struggle with growth and prosperity.
The current commission worries about finding enough people to run for office. People are willing. They're ready for a change. They want to help guide the city and make decisions.
Let's not settle for "taking this issue under advisement." Let's do something. Sometimes, actually making the decision is the most difficult part of doing something. Sometimes you just have to bite the bullet. Take a stand, make a change, move in some direction. Let's breathe some life back in this city.
— DONNA BERNHARDT
