City of Marion, IA

03/10/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/10/2026 15:50

Marion's State of the City Event Held March 9

During Marion's 32nd annual State of the City Address, Mayor Nick AbouAssaly highlighted the progress and forward-looking initiatives that make Marion a place where people and businesses thrive.

The event took place on Monday, March 9, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Cedar Rapids Convention Center, 150 1st Avenue, Cedar Rapids.

The event was hosted by the City of Marion, with generous sponsorship support provided by:

  • Alliant Energy
  • Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation
  • Mercy Medical Park in Marion
  • MidAmerican Energy
  • Ohnward Bank & Trust
  • Rinderknecht Associates
  • Simmons Perrine PLC
  • TrueNorth Companies
In his remarks, the mayor offered a number of examples that showcase Marion as a City of Opportunity in the areas of housing, collaboration, economic development and quality of life.

"The combination of demographic strength and economic vitality is generating new opportunities for businesses looking to start, expand or innovate," said AbouAssaly.

This video highlights the economic development opportunities being realized in Marion.

"Marion's progress isn't about building just to build; or growth for its own sake," AbouAssaly added. "It's defined by how Team Marion generates momentum and uses that momentum to create real value for people and expand the positive ways they can experience life in our community."

A perfect example of this is the recently completed Central Plaza at City Square Park.

The City of Marion enlisted the help of a Kid Mayor to kick off the State of the City Address and introduce Mayor AbouAssaly. While investigating, Kid Mayor Dash discovers the awesome events, beautiful parks, miles of trails and seasonal celebrations that set Marion apart. He also encounters the hardworking people who keep the city running and the neighbors who make it feel like home.

Marion demonstrates responsible, responsive and accountable local government with a strong focus on delivering excellent services. The 2025 Annual Report highlights the people and projects that have shaped the past year, along with a look ahead at what's on the horizon.

A full recording of the presentation will be available for viewing by the end of March 2026.


City of Marion, IA published this content on March 10, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on March 10, 2026 at 21:50 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]