I have been a Marion resident since 1987. I had the privilege in 2009 to be on the Selection Committee for Imagine8. It was exciting and daunting to review the thousands of ideas submitted by our Marion residents with my fellow committee members.  As you know, we selected 8 great ideas for Marion, some which could be achieved in the near term and some which were a real stretch. While we were all hopeful, I think there was some uncertainty about how it would all come to fruition.

Now looking back over the last 8-9 years, I am grinning ear to ear with pride for all the ways Marion has grown and worked towards those 8 great ideas. Each of the projects have come to life in their own way with various partners including the local residents, city government, local businesses, non-profits, and the Marion Chamber.

While there is still more to do on a few of these projects, I am excited for this next big step, ImagiNEXT. It is an opportunity for the community to keep imagining what is next for our great city of Marion. I encourage you to submit ideas and get involved to bring these ideas to reality.

The Imagine8 process had a profound impact on our community. Residents and business leaders came together to share ideas and help shape Marion’s future. From an expanded trails network to new splash pads, a community leadership program to the Klopfenstein Amphitheater at Lowe Park, these projects have enhanced the quality of life that we all enjoy.

I commend the Marion Chamber of Commerce for capturing the community’s vision and seeing it through. I encourage you to join in the conversation and share your ideas as we identify what’s next for Marion through ImagiNEXT. What would you like to see in your community?