Marion mayor speaks up about first days in office
By MARY OLSON
Marion mayor
So many people have been asking how things are going for me in my job as mayor so I thought I would write a letter to the editor to give an update.
I want to again thank those who sent so many cards and stopped to give me words of encouragement. All of them are so greatly appreciated.
In the first three or four months, I have had many ups and downs but I feel I am getting more comfortable with the position. I have attended 25-30 meetings pertaining to the position, plus had many contacts with individuals.
I have hosted two meetings for the mayors of the cities of Marion County.
I have been busy trying to meet all the city employees, too. They are a busy crew. I know some have wondered why I have been seen around the city shop and yard. I have been trying to learn more about what equipment the city owns.
The staff at the city office is #1. They have been so helpful. Hundreds of my questions have already been answered by them.
The process of working with the other city council members is beginning to work more smoothly. Sometimes I know it seems the concerns of everyone who has contacted us are not heard. Don't give up. Understand the only time the council members can address city business is when we are in a regular council meeting or work session.
Please continue to come see me at the city building on Monday and Tuesday mornings, or make an appointment to see me another time. Please continue to attend the regular city council meetings or ask to be placed on the agenda to address the council. This is a good way to get concerns known so we can begin to see how we can address them.
The council and I are working hard to see that our new chief of police will have a department we all can be proud of. He is very enthusiastic and willing to listen to our direction.
I hope you have begun to see some improvements in the streets. Believe me, I am not going to stop with what has been done so far! I am going to urge the council to continue to make plans for future improvements.
All the little problems that seem to pop up in the completion of the water plant are finally being made and the plant will soon be up and running!
Jami Williams continues to make progress to improve the economic development director's position and find ways to best serve the needs of those interested in starting a new business in our city or be of help to the existing businesses.
The city's economic board has begun to move in a focused direction. The city's website has begun to receive more interest. If you have questions about information on the website, call Jami.
I have been very pleased to see the construction of new homes to replace some existing houses and to see construction on lots that have been vacant for a time. To me, this is a wise use of existing infrastructure. I hope this can continue to happen. Be sure to express your thanks to those who have become involved in this endeavor!
I also want to express my thanks to all those I see and hear about who are quietly going about their business working to keep the city so inviting. If you see someone at the park, the library, or anywhere in town taking the time to plant a flower, pull a weed, or pick up litter, please tell them "thanks."
I know I have neglected giving my thanks to the city staff. I know they may think I gripe too much about our city property. However, I really feel this is the best way we can show off our town to those visiting and maybe looking for a new place to live. City employees have to be our ambassadors.
I have some new neighbors and I have not acknowledged the improvements they are making on their house. How about looking around your neighborhood and taking the time to compliment neighbors on their efforts to keep property looking great. Your acknowledgment of their efforts will be appreciated.
I have been spending time along the alley behind my home. After two years, I can finally see some results of pulling weeds and killing poison ivy and a stickery vine. If you have been doing the same in your backyard — thanks! It sure helps out.
Budget time is upon us. Be sure to become informed by attending the budget hearing. Your involvement is important. This is the way we can work together to make our city a place where we are glad to live and work.
