Groundbreaking ceremony marks development plans
Even though work has already begun, city officials, development personnel, and residents attended a groundbreaking ceremony Friday for Marion Assisted Living.
"This is a big event for us," said developer Bob Brooks of Brooks Development Company of Wichita.
The 18-unit facility will be located at 200 Eisenhower Drive. Local residents invested money in the project and those who were in attendance Friday were recognized.
The project is being developed by Brooks with Mike Frey of Pinnacle Construction Group, Inc., as the general contractor.
Brooks said he appreciates the City of Marion's support for the project and recalled a meeting with Eloise Mueller regarding the possible development.
"I commend Mayor Mueller for her arm-twisting in seeing this project through," said Brooks.
Brooks also commended city staff for their support during the project.
Mueller commented the development of an assisted living facility was one of her original goals as mayor.
"The development of an assisted living and independent living complex was one of my main goals in my tenure as mayor," said Mueller. "I feel this facility is much needed in our community and surrounding area. I hope the citizens, relatives, and friends will take advantage of this facility."
Mueller also thanked the investors who participated in the project, the city for its interest, and Brooks.
"I am happy and pleased this day has become a reality," said Mueller. "I look forward to the completion of this project."
Local investors in attendance were Bud and Jean Pierce, Rex and Margaret Wilson, Jack and Marjorie Regnier, Marie Morse, Bud and Lavonne Hannaford, Roger Hannaford III, and Dean and Bettie Batt,
Also in attendance were Frey; John Brewer, architect; and Bob Gibb, bond underwriter for the assisted living project. The 18-unit facility is expected to be completed by September.
