The buzz around town
Now that the decision has been made to change city government to a five-member council, it's time for City of Marion residents to get involved.
City commissioners were concerned it will be difficult to find people to fill the additional council seats. They might be surprised.
If you have ideas about the future of Marion, it might be a good time to throw your hat in the ring and run for city council.
It's great to see so much activity happening around town.
New businesses such as Zimmerman's and the Java Hut have brought a bit of variety to the downtown area.
There also is some activity in the building on the corner of Main and Second streets. That can only mean another new business will open soon.
There's a positive buzz in the air about new school facilities. The school board is moving ahead with the project and will be talking to architects this week.
Another buzz concerns the prospect of a new jail facility. In addition to the cost, there are many other details to be worked out, such as location. It's obvious a new jail facility can't be built where the current jail sits.
Alternative sites will have to be considered. Perhaps Marion's Industrial Park would be a good location. One thing is for certain, however — a new jail should be located in the county seat.
Everyone also is buzzing about the Marion Warriors. Congratulations on another division title! If you haven't been to a Warriors football game this season, you still have a few opportunities left.
They play at Southeast of Saline Friday night, then return home next week for a bout with Hillsboro. There's nothing worth watching on TV, so go out and support the Warriors.
It's refreshing to know things are moving forward. We're sometimes frustrated by the lack of progress on certain issues. It's easy to grumble about the things that aren't getting accomplished.
Some things don't progress because of lack of interest or volunteers. We can help by getting involved.
Other issues don't move forward because the wheels of government bureaucracy turn slowly. There's not much we can do about that.
Whatever the issue, the debate and the buzz around town is what keeps life interesting.
— DONNA BERNHARDT
