IN FOCUS: 3.6.26 A Weekly Update from City Manager Ryan Waller

For the Good of the Order

Marion Celebrates Women's History Month
During last night's City Council meeting, Mayor AbouAssaly proclaimed March 2026 as Women's History Month. It provides us with an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women and girls throughout our city, state and nation. The 2026 theme is "Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future," which highlights the role women play in building an equitable, resilient and sustainable future. Residents are encouraged to celebrate the achievements of women and support efforts to promote equality for all people.

Marion Parks and Recreation Celebrates Successful Ice Loop Season
The Marion Parks and Recreation Department is shifting its focus to springtime preparations after a successful first season on the ice. Special thanks to the McGrath Family of Dealerships for their sponsorship support of the Ice Loop and their part in bringing this new winter tradition to life. In its first season, the Ice Loop welcomed 5,515 total skaters, had 4,792 skate rentals, sold 2,297 hot chocolates and cappuccinos and served up 467 cookies. And those numbers don't include the hundreds of other skaters who visited outside of Skate Shack hours. A huge thank you to the Ice Loop staff and maintenance crew who worked tirelessly to keep the ice in great shape and the experience running smoothly all season long. See you next winter!

Public Hearing on Proposed Property Tax Rate Set for March 24
State law requires cities to hold two public hearings before adopting the budget. The Marion City Council will hold its first public hearing regarding the maximum property tax rate during a special meeting on March 24, 2026, at 4 p.m. at Marion City Hall (1225 6th Avenue, Marion). Through careful planning and ongoing cost-containment efforts, the City's proposed property tax rate for FY 27 would decrease from $14.89684 to $14.54508 per $1,000 of taxable value - representing a reduction of approximately $0.35. As required by recent legislation, Linn County will be mailing each property owner an individual statement regarding the proposed levies (including City, School, County, etc.) and the combined property tax rate being proposed.

Marion Public Library Launches Youth Book Clubs
Calling all young readers - the Marion Public Library is piloting two book clubs for its youngest patrons. Book Buddies (grades 1-3) and Page Turners (grades 4-6) will meet monthly for discussion and fun activities. Each participant will receive a free copy of each month's book to keep, courtesy of Theisen's and Daybreak Rotary. Registration for these book clubs is required, as space is limited. Visit marionpubliclibrary.org/youthbookclubs to learn more and sign up.

10th Street Bridge Tentatively Scheduled to Close March 16
Road construction season is fast approaching! Starting Monday, March 16 (tentatively), the 10th Street bridge between Indian Creek Road and Boyson Road will be closed to traffic. Detours will be posted at 10th Street and Boyson Road, Central Avenue and Boyson Road and the 10th Street and Central Avenue/10th Avenue roundabout. This closure is expected to last approximately four weeks, weather permitting, and is part of Sanitary Trunk Sewer Projects 4 &5. Additional information on these projects is outlined in the Word on the Street below.

Marion Civil Rights Commission Accepting Housing Assistance Grant Applications
The Marion Civil Rights Commission is currently accepting applications for the Marion Low & Moderate Income Housing Assistance Grant to be awarded in 2026. The Marion City Council has approved up to $20,000 to be used for this grant program. The grant will help non-profits, charitable organizations or other entities interested in assisting low- and moderate-income individuals with programs that address housing instability in the community. The application period will remain open through April 1, 2026. The materials and application form are available at www.cityofmarion.org/LMIgrant.

Landfill Expansion Contemplation Continues
On Feb. 5, 2026, the City Council approved a memorandum of understanding regarding the Cedar Rapids Linn County Solid Waste Agency and the future of the landfill located at 1954 County Home Road. The agreement emphasized that the City of Marion will only consider expansion of the landfill if a new governance structure is implemented that achieves county-wide representation and a reasonable host fee is established to compensate the City for the environmental impacts and growth-related challenges associated with hosting the landfill. Each governing body formally approved the agreement, and a working group was established. Earlier this week, the final recommendations from the working group were presented to the Marion City Council, as well as next steps. Updates will be provided as they are available. Learn more and stay up to date by visiting www.cityofmarion.org.

Military Tribute Banner Sponsorships Available
For the ninth year, the City of Marion, Marion Chamber and Uptown Marion invite residents to recognize and honor those who are serving or have served in the United States Armed Forces. For a $200 sponsorship, a customized banner will be created and displayed on streetlights in the community. The program is designed to show appreciation for veterans and military personnel and their families with ties to Marion. Fifty banners will be placed throughout Marion, along with those that were sponsored in 2025, just before Memorial Day. For complete details and the application, please visit www.cityofmarion.org/militarybanners.

Linn-Mar's Mane Event: Apres-Ski Happening March 27
Join Linn-Mar Community School District for their Mane Event fundraiser on Friday, March 27, at the DoubleTree by Hilton in downtown Cedar Rapids. The apres-ski-inspired theme promises an evening of socialization, fun and meaningful contribution. Event highlights include a silent auction, friendly competition in interactive games, hors d'oeuvres and more. Proceeds directly benefit students, teachers and programs throughout the district. Learn more and purchase tickets at linnmarfoundation.org.

Fireworks & Fireflies Sponsorship Opportunities Available
Generous support from businesses makes many of Marion's events possible. The annual Fireworks & Fireflies event would not be possible without our valued sponsors. As logistical needs grow, so do expenses. We would love to be able to have an even bigger fireworks display in 2026, but we can only do so with additional sponsorship support. Are you part of a business or organization that is in a position to contribute to this signature Marion celebration? Learn more about the opportunities at www.cityofmarion.org/sponsorships. The deadline to participate and receive all sponsor benefits is March 31.

Uptown Marion to Host Enchanted Blooms Fundraiser
Step into an elevated evening of flowers and community at Enchanted Blooms on Friday, March 27, from 6-9 p.m. This unique shopping experience guides guests through Uptown Marion, collecting pieces of a beautiful bouquet at each stop before assembling it at the end of the evening. Each ticket holder will receive a market tote, a raffle ticket, an event booklet with promotions from participating businesses and the materials to create their own floral masterpiece. Explore local shops, discover one-of-a-kind items and enjoy a night of creativity and connection - all while supporting Uptown Marion. Purchase tickets at givebutter.com/enchantedblooms.

Marion Police Department's 5K4K9 Returns in May
The Marion Police Department is proud to announce the return of its 5K4K9 fun run/walk to help support the K9 program and create a Crisis K9 Team. The event will be held on Saturday, May 9, at Linn-Mar High School and will include bounce houses, a kids' fun run and the 5K event. Activities start at 9 a.m. The Police Department invites you to participate in the 5K by running or walking the course, or making a donation to support this meaningful initiative. Learn more at www.cityofmarion.org/5K4K9.

Apply to Join a Board or Commission
Do you want to provide input on City policies and help shape our city and its government? Apply to be one of 100+ volunteers who serve on Marion boards and commissions. There are openings on the Arts Council, Civil Service Commission, Civil Rights Commission, Construction Code Review Board and Park Board. To be considered, please submit an online application.

Word on the Street

• What's with all the dirt moving along Central Avenue, Boyson Road and 10th Street?
  The activity you're seeing is related to Sanitary Trunk Sewer Projects 4 & 5. Project 4 follows Indian Creek from Central Avenue to 10th Street. This project replaces and upsizes the existing 24-inch sanitary sewer trunk to a 36-inch diameter pipe to improve system capacity and is expected to be completed in the summer of 2026. Project 5 runs along Central Avenue from Indian Creek to Larick Drive. This portion replaces and upsizes the existing 10-inch sanitary sewer to a 15-inch diameter pipe. This project is expected to be completed in the fall of 2026. In 2020, the City completed a comprehensive review of the entire sanitary sewer system. These projects were identified as priority improvements to increase capacity, reduce current backups and accommodate future growth in the area.

• Where will the mobile traffic camera be stationed next week?
  Between March 11-15, the mobile speed enforcement vehicle will be located in the 2500 block of 29th Avenue. Between March 11-15, the mobile speed vehicle will be located in the 2100 block of 50th Street.

Upcoming Events

Here's a look at what's happening in Marion:

• Coffeehouse Nights featuring Jarrod Hogan Acoustic, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Friday, March 6, Lowe Park
• City Council Office Hours, 9-11 a.m., Saturday, March 7, Marion Public Library
• Marion's State of the City Address, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Monday, March 9, DoubleTree by Hilton Cedar Rapids Convention Complex
• City Council Office Hours, 9-11 a.m., Saturday, March 7, Marion Public Library

Future Council Items

Here's an overview of several items that will be coming before the City Council in the weeks ahead.

On the Docket

The following are a few of the major activities on my calendar for the coming week:

• Internal meetings
• Marion's State of the City Address
• Monthly check-in with Linn-Mar & Marion Independent school districts
• Cedar Rapids Economic Alliance Large Investor meeting
• Meeting with Sally Stutsman

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