2020 City of Marion Annual Report

commUNITY

2020

City of Marion Annual Report

L E T TE R F RO M T H E M AYO R across the region and state continued to see Marion as
a place of opportunity and promise. Confidence in the
Dear Friends, potential of Marion remains strong and will fuel Marion’s
I am especially proud to share with you the City of Marion’s progress in the years ahead. That progress will be further
Annual Report for 2020, a year marked by many challenges cemented in our city’s efforts to ensure that Marion is a
yet defined by a community determined to persevere and welcoming and inclusive community where all people
succeed. feel safe and valued.
In the face of an unprecedented public health crisis and Thank you for taking the time to read the 2020 Annual
the worst natural disaster in our city’s history, Marion’s Report. I have no doubt that with a continued focus on
leaders, residents and community partners exemplified true serving the needs of all people and giving them unequaled
commUNITY as we unified around a common purpose opportunities to achieve their goals and enjoy their lives,
and a shared responsibility for the safety and well-being Marion will thrive and be the best place in Iowa to live,
of people and businesses. raise a family and grow a business.
With determination and resolve, we led our city through
an uncertain environment while continuing to provide the Nicolas AbouAssaly
high-quality services that set Marion apart. I’m grateful for Mayor
our entire City team and our community partners for their
tireless efforts in providing services, support and solutions
that helped people and businesses succeed.
Despite the difficult circumstances, Marion continued to
experience growth and attract investment as people from

Nicolas AbouAssaly Will Brandt Colette Atkins Grant Harper Rene Gadelha Steve Jensen Randy Strnad
Mayor Ward 3 Ward 1 At Large Ward 4 Ward 2 At Large

[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

THE POWER OF commUNITY

LGocLaOl RBesApoLnsePtAo aNDEMIC

The City of Marion had great momentum The Task Force and partner agencies � Launching the Delivery, Curbside
going into 2020, but it slowed in mid- came together in #BuildingCommUNITY. & Carryout Facebook page, now
March when school and business closures These efforts included: more than 4,500 members strong, to
were declared, and the country was � Creating a dedicated webpage to provide local businesses and residents
paralyzed by the presence of the novel with an avenue for safely supporting
coronavirus. highlight City service implications and local businesses.
Linn County activated Unified Command closures, news updates, local business
in response to the disaster with Linn resources and links to trusted sources � Compiling a mental health
County Public Health leading the charge. of information. resource document to assist
The City of Marion played an active role in � Developing a Reopening & community members in finding help
the coordinated regional response to the Recovery Toolkit for Businesses in a time of crisis.
COVID-19 pandemic and locally in col- with recommendations and guidance
laboration with its economic development for safely serving their customers and � Promoting volunteer opportuni-
partners, Marion Economic Development accommodating their employees. ties to support important community
Corporation (MEDCO) and the Marion � Conducting Resident Readiness programs like the Feeding Lunches to
Chamber of Commerce. Surveys to gauge consumer confidence Youth program and drive-through
City facilities were closed to the public, as restrictions were lifted. Encore Café meal distribution.
but City staff and leaders continued to � Producing eight public service
provide essential services both in-person announcements to emphasize � Designating a special service
and remotely. the importance of wearing a mask. area on 11th Street to introduce
Within a month of the Governor’s The PSAs were aired at no cost to the more open-air dining options.
first executive orders, Mayor Nicolas City on the local ABC and CBS
AbouAssaly initiated a COIVD-19 affiliates from July-January. � Making more than 1,000 business
Community Recovery Task Force to � Creating Welcome Back posters to contacts, a collaborative effort of
explore and implement strategies to communicate expectations consistently MEDCO, the Chamber and City
support individual, family and business across the community. Council members, to support
recovery efforts in the wake of the � Infusing $20,500 in CommUNITY pandemic-impacted businesses.
coronavirus pandemic. Cash into the local economy to support
The Task Force continues to meet and retailers, restaurants and services, thanks � Reimagining community events
includes representatives from local to a partnership between the Marion and making it possible for farmers’
government, business and economic Chamber and area financial institutions. markets to take place with new safety
development, education, health, human protocols in place. The Marion
services and faith communities. Chamber introduced traveling concerts
Among the overarching goals of the and Santa and Mrs. Claus on parade
Task Force was to reignite Marion’s to deliver some holiday cheer.
forward momentum and return to a
position of positive development as
quickly as possible.
“We want Marion to be on the leading
edge of recovery efforts,” said City
Manager Lon Pluckhahn, “with the
well-being of our people and our
businesses at the forefront.”

THE POWER OF commUNITY

A Disaster during a Pandemic

The City of Marion sustained widespread In addition to the operational response, Students Initiate
damage as a result of the derecho that humanitarian needs were also addressed. Project to Support
moved through Eastern Iowa on Aug. The Churches of Marion Food Pantry was Replanting Effort
10, 2020. Winds were clocked at up to temporarily relocated, a recovery fund
140 mph causing damage to nearly every was established and volunteer needs and Inspired by the generosity shown in the wake of
structure and tree in the Marion area support were coordinated locally by the Aug. 10 derecho and the devastating impact
and across Eastern Iowa. Marion Chamber of Commerce and on the community’s tree canopy, a team of Iowa
Uptown Marion staff. Pantry volunteers BIG students initiated a project to help their town
Community leaders swiftly assessed logged more than 1,100 volunteer hours recover. The team invited chainsaw artists from
the damage and orchestrated a response in August and 1,600 households across the state to create art from the sizeable tree
while neighbors banded together to do were served. trunks that were ravaged by the storm and then
what they could to help the community sold the art through an online auction. The fund-
recover. It was all hands on deck to get The recovery fund generated over raiser was wildly successful, allowing the students
through the first weeks after the disaster. $70,000. Roughly $42,500 was distributed to present Trees Forever with a check for more than
to residential and business applicants in $14,450 to support the planting of trees in Marion.
Public Services crews worked through the form of grants, $7,000 was used to
the night on Aug. 10 to clear blocked purchase food to stock the pantry in the
roadways. Within days a specialty con- early days of the disaster. More recently,
tractor was hired to begin the daunting $10,000 was given to Trees Forever and
task of tree debris collection. More than $10,000 was given to the Churches of
one million cubic yards of tree debris Marion Food Pantry to support the on-
have been processed to date, with crews going recovery efforts. The remaining
now working to clear waterway debris. balance will go to support the work of
Marion Cares as it works to address
Marion Parks and Recreation staff long-term housing needs.
assessed nearly 6,000 trees in the right-
of-way, parks and public spaces. Esti- The community has made significant
mates show loss of or damage to about 41 progress in clearing the debris and
percent of the city’s street tree canopy. beginning repairs to structures. The
destruction left behind by the derecho
The Building Inspection Division com- was unfathomable, but the true face of
pleted preliminary damage assessments Marion shone brightly as the community
on 7,321 properties throughout Marion. united around a common purpose and
Secondary inspections confirmed that shared humanity.
225 structures were destroyed or sus-
tained major damage.

Equity & Inclusion

In 2020, Marion was painfully reminded that no community is immune to the
impacts of racism and hate.

“Hate has no place in Marion,” said Mayor Nicolas AbouAssaly. “We must stand up
to hate and we must protect our neighbors. Every Marion resident has the right to feel
secure, safe and welcomed in the place they call home.”

City leaders encouraged and invited conversations around race and equity brought
to light after the tragic death of George Floyd and acknowledged the work that must
be done to unite around the ideals of fairness, equality and justice for all people.

In response, the City created the Community Equity Task Force. The group is
currently meeting and exploring diversity, evaluating data and reviewing City policies.

OBpUenSfIoNr ESS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Broad and Main Proposed 7th Avenue Streetscape & Plaza
for Uptown
With the final segment of 6th Avenue to be constructed in the spring
Eagle View Partners is proceeding with its newest development of 2021, the focus turns to a complete reconstruction of 7th Avenue and
project, Broad and Main, designed to add residential density and adjacent side streets between 8th and 12th Streets in the heart of the
commercial vibrancy to the Uptown Marion District. central business district. It also includes the addition of a plaza on 11th
Street that stretches from the Uptown Artway south across 7th Avenue.
The more than $25 million Broad and Main redevelopment plan
calls for two properties to be constructed in succession at 1101 7th “Marion is fortunate to be among the fastest-growing cities in the
Avenue, currently the Marion Square Plaza strip mall. The first project, state. While the rate of development can present unique challenges, it is
Broad and Main on 7th, is a three-story mixed-use property that in- important for us as City leaders to balance the maintenance and upkeep
cludes two large commercial bays – anticipated for food and beverage of what is already existing while being visionary and forward-thinking to
tenants with additional micro-retail bays ideal for new businesses. position our community for future success,” said Marion Mayor Nicolas
The property’s second and third floors are devoted to 39 market-rate AbouAssaly. “This is a project that is able to accomplish both.”
residential units in a mix of efficiency, studio, one-bedroom and
two-bedroom units, and a second-floor office suite. Initial estimates show a total project cost of $6.5 million. This includes
complete reconstruction of the right-of-way for nine City blocks and the
Broad and Main on 6th will be a four-story residential property replacement of underground utilities, sanitary sewer, storm sewer and
housing 42 units in a mix of one-bedroom and two-bedroom units, water main, plus construction of the North Plaza.
plus high-demand amenities shared between the properties, including
an outdoor dog run, indoor/outdoor lounge, fitness center, secure “This project replaces underground infrastructure that is over 100 years
bike storage room, and secure parcel technology. Both properties will old, improves walkability, accessibility and overall safety,” said Community
share the use of a surface parking lot situated between the properties Development Director Tom Treharne. “It also enhances our City’s core,
and a private parking garage on the ground floor of Broad and making it attractive to potential businesses, visitors and residents.”
Main on 6th.
East Town Crossing

Progress continues on the East Town Crossing (formerly Squaw Creek
Crossing) mixed-use development at the northeast corner of Highways
13 and 151 in Marion. It is a multi-faceted development of over 20 acres
that includes potential development in retail, service, hospitality,
commercial and residential uses. East Town Crossing currently includes
Dupaco Community Credit Union, Kwik Star, and a retail strip featuring
Pancheros Mexican Grill, Pizza Ranch Fun Zone Arcade and Jersey Mike’s
Subs. There is also an 88-unit, contemporary multi-family housing
project underway.

MEDCO UPTOWN MARION DISTRICT CHAMBER
Since 2013 (program inception) In the last year,
In 2020, supported construction $27 million 40
projects in the community in private investments through building acquisitions, new or expanding businesses
valued at
rehabilitations, and new construction projects 20
$17.6 million
$960,000 groundbreakings and ribbon cuttings
while retaining and creating
in state grants to rehabilitate our historic buildings 7
451 jobs.
107 reimagined community events
Currently
business starts and expansions $225,000
$180 million
in projects underway 10,584 secured in ImagiNEXT
or preparing to begin in 2021. project grants
volunteer hours

OCuHr NAePxtTER

The plan to build a 52,000 square-foot, multi-level building in the 1100 block of 6th Avenue has become a reality.
On Oct. 1, City officials, library staff and project managers broke ground for the new $18 million facility. The Library currently
surpassed $2.5 million in donations of the $3.3 million capital campaign goal. Find the campaign case statement and
learn more about the project at www.marionpubliclibrary.org.

Marion Public Library’s The last year has taken the Marion Public media service, Hoopla. Hoopla allows patrons
Commitments to Library on a journey to define who they are and to borrow movies, music, audiobooks, ebooks,
Equity & Inclusion: who they want to be. The Library redeveloped comics and TV shows to enjoy on a computer,
its strategic plan and introduced a new mission tablet or phone. The library had over 190,000
We welcome everyone. and vision, Your Pursuit. Our Passion. patron visits, 63,130 interlibrary loan requests,
We protect privacy. With the approval of a mobile library branch 27,655 eBooks downloaded and over 22,000
We encourage curiosity. and efforts towards full virtual services, the public computer sessions.
We listen and respond to Marion Public Library continues to move
people in our community. forward and innovate the path with libraries The Library greatly expanded its collection
We have fun. around the country. in 2020, with the addition of Playaways for
We learn together. adults, teens and children, Readalong Books
We hold each other In March of 2020, library services shifted for children, Library of Things, STEAM Kits
accountable. due to the COVID-19 pandemic. From com- for children, Binge Box movie sets, Bookpacks
We build relationships. pletely closing down and working remotely, to (Playaway and print book) for children, Surprise
reopening by appointment only, Library staff Me! Bundles and Take-And-Make Kits. At the
swiftly learned the new normal to adapt to height of the pandemic, patrons were encour-
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention aged to explore online services such
(CDC) regulations. Library programs shifted as Hoopla, Overdrive and Kanopy.
to fully virtual and a holds pick-up window was
created to serve patrons. With the pandemic Marion Public Library is known for its rela-
showing no signs of relief, the 6th Avenue tionships in the Marion community. Linn-Mar
facility was then taken out of commission due Community Schools and Marion Independent
to damages from the August derecho. School District partnered with the Library so
their current Student IDs work as local library
In 2020, 977 patrons borrowed over 16,000 cards as well. This is a huge milestone for both
unique titles through the groundbreaking digital school districts as well as Marion Public Library.

ALcItVivIeNG VIBRANT commUNITY

The Marion Parks and Recreation Department PARKS &
provides a wide range of recreational and educational RECREATION
opportunities that encourage healthy, active lifestyles
and lifelong learning. LIBRARY PARKS AND
190,000 RECREATION
Some of the highlights from 2020 included the implemen-
tation of online registration for programs, rentals and pool patron visits 244
memberships, celebrating the opening of the Marion YMCA
and new recreation partnerships, reimagined programs, and 63,130 new trees planted in city
the introduction of passive recreation activities such as to-go parks and rights-of-way,
kits, the Marion Poker Challenge and the StoryBook Walk with interlibrary loan requests
Marion Public Library. The Moonlit Movies became Drive-In supported by
Movies in 2020 and the Marion Farmers’ Market at Taube 27,655
Park had a successful run with new safety protocols in place. $10,000
eBooks downloaded
The Outdoor Aquatic Feasibility Study continued, a new in grants and donations
shelter was built at Lininger Park, 21 acres of prairie were 22,000 Tree City USA –
planted as part of the 1,000-acre pollinator initiative and
over 30,000 holiday lights were added to City Square Park public computer sessions 27
and the roundabouts on 7th Avenue to provide an extra
dose of holiday cheer. years and running

Plans for 2021 include further development of the pro-
gramming partnership with the YMCA , new lighting along
the Hanna Park Fitness Trail and an updated basketball court,
development of Prairie Hill Park to include a ball diamond,
trails, playground and shelter, and the safe return of summer
events. Much of the focus will also be to “ReLeaf Marion” using
funds that were generated by the Splinters project. Look for
information to come on private tree adoption, tree giveaways
and planting efforts in City parks and right-of-ways.

Marion YMCA & Community
Rec Center Opens

In January 2021, the new Marion YMCA and community
recreation center officially opened at the corner of Tower
Terrace Road and Irish Drive. The state-of-the-art, multi-
purpose facility is more than double the size of the former
Marion YMCA. The building spans over 70,000 square feet
with more than 7,000 square feet of fitness space, three full-
size basketball courts, an indoor track, plus leisure and lap
swimming pools. It is designed as a community center to
meet the recreational, wellness and social needs of residents
in Marion and surrounding communities.

“This project is much more than a beautiful building,” said
Marion Mayor Nicolas AbouAssaly during the ribbon-cutting
ceremony. “The truly spectacular part of the story is what will
happen here, through the partnership between the Y and the
City of Marion. This facility will give people of all ages new and
expanded opportunities for physical and mental well-being
and social interaction. Community will happen here.”

IInNveFsRtinAg iSn TRUCTURE

Engineering Public Services

The Engineering Department is responsible for the construction and recon- The Public Services Department is responsible for maintaining
struction of the transportation network and underground infrastructure the City’s infrastructure in a cost-effective and efficient manner.
throughout the community. In 2020, the City completed the Runway 17/35 In 2020, they were at the front lines of the derecho response,
Reconstruction Project at the Marion Airport and completed $2 million working countless hours to clear roadways, establish a larger tree
in asphalt overlay projects. In turn, the Engineering Department received debris disposal site and repair or replace traffic control devices.
two awards from the Asphalt Paving Association of Iowa for their efforts. Other department activities include street repair and mainte-
nance, traffic maintenance, snow and ice control, street clean-
The City was successful in obtaining Traffic Safety Improvements ing, stormwater and sanitary sewer maintenance, and garbage
Funding for a roundabout at the intersection of Alburnett Road and collection. The department provides services to Marion residents
Echo Hill Road, a traffic light at South 31st Street and Highway 100, and as well as to many neighboring communities.
intersection improvements at 35th Street and 7th Avenue. The Corridor
Metropolitan Planning Organization also awarded funding for future Construction began on a new Eco Industrial Park/Public Ser-
improvements to 7th Avenue from 12th to 22nd Streets. vices Maintenance Facility in 2019. The new 135,000 square foot
facility will be one of the largest geothermal facilities in Iowa, in-
Completion of 6th Avenue is anticipated in the spring of 2021 and then corporating renewable energy systems that will power operations
the focus will shift to the 7th Avenue Streetscape from 8th to 12th Streets. for the facility. When completed, a new fleet will be introduced
Work will also continue on the CeMar Trail and the bridge installation that runs off of Compressed Natural Gas. This will translate into
over 7th Avenue. Work will begin on the 10th Avenue sidepaths project significant transportation fuel and energy savings for Marion
to improve walkability on a mile-long stretch along Business 151, residents. The project is slated for completion in 2022.
between Hy-Vee and Walmart.

Airport Runway
Expansion
Completed

City officials and community leaders
gathered to celebrate the completion of
the runway expansion project at Marion
Airport in June. The runway was expanded
from 23-feet to 60-feet wide along with
additional grading, drain tile, runway
lighting and other safety improvements.
The Iowa Department of Transportation
awarded over $424,000 to the project.

SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE

Uptown Master Plan Update

The City is investing in heart of the community
through an updated Uptown Master Plan. Public
input, common themes and recommendations
from previous plans were taken into consideration.
An overarching goal of the plan is to enhance the
district and provide for year-round enjoyment
for all ages. Three plaza areas create a cohesive con-
nection between the new Marion Public Library
and shops and restaurants by way of the 11th Street
right-of-way. Learn more about the vision at
www.cityofmarion.org/7thAveStreetscape.

Trails ENGINEERING
In 2020, work began on the five-phase 12+
CeMar Trail project that will eventually con-
nect Uptown Marion with Downtown Cedar active subdivisions
Rapids. The former railroad bridge over Marion
Boulevard was removed and cleared the way for 17+
a new gateway pedestrian bridge with artistic
columns designed and built by local artist, active commercial sites
Cara Briggs Farmer. Work also began in the
reconstruction of the former railroad bridge over Indian Creek and should last 18+
well into 2021. Additionally, the trail through Thomas and Legion Parks was paved.
Final grading and seeding will be completed in the spring. In February the fourth active Capital Improvement
phase was bid with a late start date set for August of this year. Projects under construction

In 2020, an online open house was held for the 10th Avenue Sidepaths project 14+
with unanimous support for the project that will create a multi-modal link from
35th Street to Eagleview Drive. Design for the project proceeded swiftly and the Capital Improvement Projects
project is anticipated to be bid in June of this year, with construction commencing being designed
this year as well.
WATER
The alignment for Indian Creek Trail, meant to follow Indian Creek from 22,156 feet
Boyson Trail to Tower Terrace Road, has been determined. Easements still need
to be acquired before final plans can be submitted for approval. The trail project of new water main installed
is expected to be let this fall. in new subdivisions

Water 2,009 feet

The Marion Water Department is dedicated to providing its customers with a safe, of old water main replaced
high-quality and reliable water supply that meets or exceeds all federal and state
drinking water requirements. 48

One of the biggest changes for the department in 2020 was the renovation of new fire hydrants installed
a former pump house into the new administrative offices for the department.
Staff and a payment drop box are located at 3050 5th Avenue. 207

In 2020, 4.2 miles of new water main were installed by private contractors. new water accounts bringing
More than 2,000 feet of water main were replaced in the past year along 14th Street, the new total to 14,807
A Avenue and 62nd Street and at the intersection of Business Highway 151 and
35th Street. Forty-eight new fire hydrants were installed, bringing the fire hydrant PUBLIC SERVICES
count throughout the city to nearly 1,900. Crews stop at
12,300 houses
Plans have been completed for a new $2.87 million Iron Removal Plant at per week to collect garbage/recycling
2351 31st Street. When operational, this improvement will provide the community
with an additional 864,000 gallons of water per day from the Silurian Aquifer. 23,000 cars
The facility will be completed by June 2022. visited the Recycling
Drop-Off Center in FY2000

50,000 cars

visited the Yard Waste Facility

EProSvSidEinNg TIAL SERVICES

BUILDING Fire

8,468 Marion Fire Department is charged with the responsibility of protecting the
lives and property of Marion residents and visitors. Whether the emergency is
inspections completed fire, illness, trauma, hazardous material release or special rescue, Marion Fire
in FY 2020 maintains a trained staff and equipped vehicles to meet this responsibility.

4,675 2020 was all but a typical year for the Fire Department, first at the front lines
of the COVID pandemic as first responders, then activating the Emergency
permits issued FY 2020 Operations Center in response to the derecho.

278 Still, a new organizational chart was introduced to add battalion chiefs for each
station, a new training program was developed and four PEER Support mentors
new homes or housing were trained to support the mental health needs of the department. In addition,
units created from Marion Fire was awarded a grant to purchase an off-road rescue and firefighting
188 permits issued vehicle.

FIRE The Fire Department is looking forward to the completion and activation of its
new fire station and headquarters under construction at the intersection of Irish
4,800 Drive and Tower Terrace Road. Despite some delays, the facility is expected to be
placed into service around May 1, 2021. Other initiatives include finding land for
calls for service, the development of Station No. 4 as well as a location for a fire training facility.
78% were medical calls The department also plans to roll out a new officer training program.

5.2% Police

increase in call volume In 2020, the Marion Police Department answered over 31,000 calls for service
over 2019 which included 1,880 incoming calls to the communications center on Aug. 10,
2020, when the derecho hit the city. The department hired four new officers this
POLICE year, two of whom were hired under a new lateral transfer program. The program
provides incentives to new hires who have already been certified as peace officers
31,000+ and don’t need to attend the academy, which saves the department both time
and money.
calls for service
The department partnered with Foundation 2 to create a contract law enforce-
574 ment liaison position which is being staffed on a full-time basis by a Foundation 2
Crisis Counselor. This individual responds to mental health/substance abuse calls
accident reports in our community to facilitate appropriate treatment options for those in need.
The liaison also proactively follows up with individuals in our community to
717 ensure treatment plans are being followed, adjustments to treatment can be made
and to offer support to families. The position is currently being funded through
motorist assists the department’s budget, but state and federal grants are being sought to pay for
the position in future years.
757
Statistical data was presented to the City Council, Civil Rights Commission,
business checks Community Equity Task Force and the media regarding arrest and ticket demo-
graphics for the past five years. The department began working on a transparency
hub so data could be proactively shared with the public on a continuing basis.
The department will continue to work with the Civil Rights Commission and
Community Equity Task Force in the future to ensure all residents of Marion
feel safe and welcome.

SAFE commUNITY

Building the pandemic and closure of City and obtain international code
facilities. The first phase of the project certifications (both virtually and
The Building Inspection Division has been completed and online train- in-person) and participate in and
within the Community Development ing is being planned to help educate influence regional, state and national
Department works to assure a safe, those submitting plans. An online building safety organizations to
secure and stable built environment portal will soon be introduced to ensure a safe built environment
through uniform and fair enforcement simplify the process. throughout Marion.
of all building and related codes.
Inspectors are required to have a Review of the 2021 International
thorough knowledge of building Building Code is currently underway
codes and construction techniques. and will go before the Marion Con-
struction Code Review Board. Staff are
In FY 2020, nearly 8,500 inspec- recommending changes that will make
tions were completed even though buildings more resilient to high winds.
inspections were suspended during The code is expected to go to the City
April, May and June due to the Council for adoption in the spring.
COVID-19 pandemic. An impressive
4,675 permits were issued in FY 2020. Building Inspection employees
Permit numbers nearly tripled in May will continue to attend training
and June 2020 due to the hailstorm in
the spring and subsequent repairs to
roofing, siding and windows.

A new process for digital plan review
was accelerated due to the timing of

YMCA Partnership

The Marion YMCA is one of the final Imagine8 projects
to be completed in Marion. With a lead investment of
$7.3 million from the City of Marion, this new facility
demonstrates a full partnership between the City and
YMCA. By joining forces, a single structure meets the
needs of the community at lower overall costs to each
partner than having each do a project on their own.

Human Resources Strong Bond Rating
Department Established and Audit Report

In September 2020, the City of Marion hired its first human resources The City of Marion continues to maintain its strong
director, and shortly thereafter, the HR manager position was filled. Aa1 bond rating, as assigned by Moody’s Investors
Chief among this team’s priorities for the upcoming year is the build- Service. Marion has received this rating consistently
out of the HR infrastructure and supporting processes to meet the since 2010 with each issuance of bonds. This rating
goals and objectives of the City. Another priority is to implement a allows the City to borrow at lower rates and stretches
compensation framework and performance management program taxpayer dollars further.
that will reward top performers and drive employee engagement across
all teams. Also, in the coming months, the HR team is looking to roll The independent annual audit by Hogan-Hansen
out a new talent solution geared toward enhancing skills and fostering indicates that Marion’s financial statements are
development for employees, as well as ensuring the City is hiring the presented fairly and accurately per accounting
right individuals into the right roles. Human Resources is also in the principles accepted nationwide. Hogan-Hansen
process of hiring key positions for the City including deputy city reported two findings related to segregation of duties
manager, city attorney and library director. and financial statement preparation, both repeated
from the prior year.

EFFICIENT & EFFECTIVE GOVERNMENT

DFeISmConAstrLatiRngESPONSIBILITY

FY 2022-FY 2026 Proposed Capital Investments

Capital Improvement Ge1n%eral 30%
Program Publi3c%Safety Government
20% Transportation
Capital project priorities are identified through
the City’s multi-year Capital Improvement Program Utility
(CIP). The FY 2022-FY 2026 CIP represents approx- Infrastructure
imately $116 million in projects and establishes the
City’s blueprint for investments in capital infra- 23%
structure. The CIP is used as a tool to ensure that
the City’s long and short-term capital investments Public Works
are made in the context of careful consideration of
the City’s needs as well as the resources available 23%
to fund all projects.
Culture & Recreation
The chart to the right shows the CIP portfolio
broken down by government function. General Fund FY 2020 Property Taxes 14,142,811 57%
Other Financing Sources 6,204,573 25%
Operating Budget Other City Taxes 1,695,364 7%
Licenses & Permits 3%
The City Manager’s Office and Finance Department Intergovernmental 824,904 3%
are responsible for preparing an annual operating Use of Money & Property 777,998 2%
budget that is consistent with the objectives of the Charges for Services 440,178 2%
City Council and the Strategic Plan. Misc Revenues 461,408 1%
346,426
The charts depict the General Fund budget from Total Revenues 100%
FY 2020. The General Fund is one of several funds 24,893,663
in the City’s annual operating budget. The total
operating budget includes utility funds and road use Public Safety 12,705,737 53%
tax collections. In FY 2020, revenues increased by Culture and Recreation 4,607,759 20%
$14,730,680 and expenditures were $11,346,264 to General Government 4,121,536 17%
support city services. Additional budget information Community & Economic Development 1,474,486 6%
is available at www.cityofmarion.org. Public Works 1,032,105 4%

Total Expenditures 23,941,623 100%

Property Tax Distribution

In FY 2020, the owner of a $100,000 home in Marion paid $810 annually ($67 monthly) for City services,
including public safety, public works, culture and recreation and more. This is how the funds generated

by the City’s portion of the property tax bill were distributed.

$243 $181 $24 $11 $2 $24 $63 $83 $21 $35 $123

Police Fire Emergency Street Lighting Traffic Engineering Library Parks & Community General Debt Service
911 Recreation & Economic Government
Development

EQnhUanAciLngITY OF LIFE

Sunrise Yoga at Lowe Park

The beautiful Klopfenstein Amphitheater at Lowe Park allowed plenty of
room for social distancing and a successful seventh season of Sunrise Yoga
in 2020. A new waiver was introduced and only the instructor was allowed
on the stage, but the modifications were well-received by the more than
1,000 attendees over 11 sessions.

Uptown Community Garden

This was a big year for the Uptown Community Garden as it moved to a
new location and also doubled in size. Thanks to grants from Alliant Energy,
Marion Chamber Foundation and Iowa State University Extension and
Outreach, the garden was moved to an empty lot next to Marion City Hall.
The new location features accessible raised beds, stock tank beds, a garden
bed made with pavers and some that are double the height of the others.

Even though the derecho took out the greenhouse and impacted much
of the harvest, Be Well Marion was still able to provide over 400 pounds of
lettuce, spinach, tomatoes and other produce to the Churches of Marion
Food Pantry for distribution.

Staff/Council Accessibility

Community engagement isn’t the responsibility of one division within the City
of Marion; it is a way of doing business. From public meetings to social media
interaction, there are countless opportunities for engagement between Marion’s
civil servants, elected officials and the residents who call Marion home.

Engaging with members of the community continues to be a strong focus,
with emphasis placed on meeting people in places where they are already
gathering. In 2020, that meant via Zoom and other electronic means.
The City’s responsive website and social media sites provide access to
City information 24/7.

OUTREACH WELL-BEING
53 400+

City Council work sessions pounds of vegetables
and meetings donated to the food pantry

130 from the Uptown Garden

Board and commission 1,000+
meetings
Sunrise Yoga participants
3 attended 11 Sunrise Yoga

Project update/public input sessions in a safe,
meetings distanced manner

300,734

Website sessions

CELEBRATING commUNITY

Awards & Designations

Marion is proud to be the best place in Iowa to raise a family and grow a
business. Here we reach higher and achieve more, in business and in life.

Did you know?

� Marion was proud to receive the All-Star Community Award
in 2017, 2018 and 2020 from the Iowa League of Cities. Marion was
among three of Iowa’s 945 cities to garner such recognition. In 2017,
the Klopfenstein Amphitheater for the Performing Arts at Lowe Park
was recognized. In 2018, the community won the award for the Uptown
Artway place-making project. In 2020, the Prospect Meadows Sports
Complex received top honors.

� In July 2020, Marion landed in the top spot of LendEDU’s list of
Most Budget-Friendly Cities for Renters in the state of Iowa and
ranked ninth in the nation. To be considered, a city had to have a mini-
mum of 12,000 housing units. Each city was ranked according to its rent-
to-income ratio, or the proportion of a city’s median household income
that goes to annual rent costs (including utilities). Marion’s rent-to-in-
come ratio was right at 13.459 percent.

� AreaVibes gave Marion a Livability Score of 94 out of 100.
The score consists of seven different categories including amenities, cost
of living, crime, employment, housing, schools, user ratings and dozens
of data points across multiple data sets. Marion received exceptionally
high marks for its schools, amenities, low crime rate and user ratings.
Marion ranked 5th in the state of Iowa and 55th in the US.

� In April 2020, the National Arbor Day Foundation and the Iowa Depart-
ment of Natural Resources Forestry Bureau awarded Marion the Tree
City USA Growth Award. Marion has achieved Tree City USA status
every year since 1993 and has received the Growth Award since 1994.

� Marion has consistently landed in the top 15 percent of Best Small
Cities in America by WalletHub and 2020 was no exception. To
identify the small cities where Americans can enjoy a good quality of life
and affordable living costs, WalletHub’s analysts compared 1,268 cities
with populations between 25,000 and 100,000 across five key dimensions:
affordability, economic health, education and health, quality of life and
safety. In 2015, Marion reached #20 on the list.

� For the past 20 years, based on population and reported crimes,
Marion continues to be one of the safest cities in Iowa.

1225 6th Avenue PRSRT STD
Marion, IA 52302 U.S. POSTAGE
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HOW TO REACH US

MARION CITY HALL Human Resources Department COMMUNITY POLICE DEPARTMENT
319-743-7435 DEVELOPMENT
1225 6th Avenue [email protected] 6315 Highway 151
Marion, IA 52302 IT Department Planning & Development Emergency – 911
www.cityofmarion.org 319-743-4735 319-743-6320 Non-Emergency – 319-377-1511
Administration [email protected] [email protected] Records – 319-200-7714
319-743-6301 Building Inspection Administration – 319-200-7727
[email protected] PARKS & RECREATION 319-743-6330 [email protected]
City Clerk DEPARTMENT [email protected]
319-743-6327 PUBLIC SERVICES
[email protected] Administrative & WATER DEPARTMENT DEPARTMENT
City Manager Operations Offices
319-743-6301 Thomas Park – 3050 5th Avenue (solid waste, sewer, streets)
[email protected] 343 Marion Boulevard 319-743-6310 195 35th Street • 319-377-6367
Engineering Department 319-447-3580 [email protected] [email protected]
319-743-6340 [email protected]
[email protected] Recreation Office FIRE DEPARTMENT MARION PUBLIC
Finance Department Lowe Park – 4500 N 10th Street LIBRARY
319-743-6350 319-447-3590 3933 Katz Drive
[email protected] [email protected] Emergency – 911 1064 7th Avenue • 319-377-3412
Non-Emergency – 319-377-8237 [email protected]
[email protected]