Meeting planned to assist businesses
Staff reporter
Expanding and new business opportunities may be coming to Marion.
Stan Thiessen of Hillsboro told Marion City Commission Monday within the past 30 days he has been contacted by three businesses from Marion.
"One wanted to expand, one wanted to purchase an existing business, and one wanted to start a new business," Thiessen said.
Thiessen requested support from the city in conducting an information meeting for those interested in starting or expanding a business.
City administrator David Mayfield was instructed to work with Thiessen in planning the meeting. It also was suggested to involve Marion Chamber of Commerce.
The commission asked Thiessen who he represented. He responded "himself."
He suggested the city have a resource for business people to contact.
"The county is going to hire a county economic development professional," Thiessen said, "but the city cannot look to the county for those resources."
Information was not divulged regarding what businesses Thiessen was assisting. A day and time for a meeting will be announced.
In other city business:
— Casey Case of Case & Son Insurance reported a three percent increase in the city's insurance policy. The 2004 premium was $96,178 and the premium for 2005 will be $99,277.
A $1,928 increase was noted for property insurance. The rates for the city's liability, inland marine, auto, and workers' compensation remained the same.
— Mike Regnier was appointed the city's fire chief, replacing Thad Meierhoff.
A contract was approved for Regnier to receive $3,400 per year. The appointment will become effective April 1.
— Re-appointments were Mayfield as city administrator, Linda Holub, city clerk and municipal court clerk, Angela Lange, assistant city clerk and city treasurer, Dan Baldwin, city attorney, Michel Soyez, police chief, and Bryson Mills, municipal judge.
— Hague Quality Water of Wichita was granted a six-month vendor's license for door-to-door sales.
— Warrants for $14,714 were approved.
— Equipment is ready to be installed at the city's water treatment plant. The city is waiting for the approved permit from Kansas Department of Health & Environment before installation can be completed.
The equipment will add ammonia to the city's water. Notification will be made in the city's official newspaper, the Marion County Record, when the ammonia is added so aquarium owners can take necessary precautions.
— Seven silver maple trees were replanted in Central Park and east of the police/fire department.
Trees were damaged and some were removed due to the January ice storm.
The commission will meet at 4 p.m. Monday in the city building.
