IN FOCUS: 2.27.26 A Weekly Update from City Manager Ryan Waller

For the Good of the Order

Last Call for State of the City Tickets
Will you be joining us on March 9 when Mayor AbouAssaly delivers Marion's 2026 State of the City address? Don't miss out on your chance to purchase tickets or request a seat to view the presentation only. Find all the details at www.cityofmarion.org/SOC. The reservation deadline is today!

Ice Loop to Close for the Season on March 1
Have you been meaning to get to the ice loop, but haven't found the time? Now is your chance! The Ice Loop in the Central Plaza at City Square Park is open this weekend, with the final day of skating happening this Sunday, March 1. This will allow staff to de-winterize the park before shifting its focus to spring. Join us at the Ice Loop before the skates are hung up for the season. Thank you for an unforgettable first year on the ice.

Marion Messenger and Play by Play Spring/Summer Activity Guide Hit Mailboxes
The latest issue of the Marion Messenger is now available. Please be on the lookout and take the time to flip through. It includes several important updates about the budget, City projects and upcoming events. This issue also features the Spring/Summer Parks and Rec Play by Play Activity Guide. Check them out!

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.

Community Garden Plots Available
A limited number of community garden plots are available at Lowe Park (4500 N. 10th Street) for the upcoming season. The plots measure 20 feet by 20 feet and cost $20 for the season. To be eligible, you must be a Marion resident. Spots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. To reserve a plot, email [email protected].

2026 Pool Memberships Now Available
Are you preparing for summer? Why not start the countdown to those sunny days at the Marion Pool. Individual memberships are available for $115 and family memberships are available for $200. Find all the details and purchase your membership at www.cityofmarion.org/aquatics.

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

• Where will the mobile traffic camera be stationed next week?
  Between Feb. 27-March 3, the mobile speed enforcement vehicle will be located in the 5200 block of Winslow Road. Between March 5-9, the mobile speed vehicle will be located in the 2500 block of 29th Avenue.

Upcoming Events

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

• City Council Office Hours, 9-11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 28, Marion Public Library
• 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

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
• Meeting with Brandy Meisheid
• City Council Work Session
• Wake Up Marion meeting
• Monthly Coffee Talk with City employees
• Meeting with Aaron-Marie Thoms
• City Council Meeting
• Meeting with James Klein
• Meeting with Destiny Hastings

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