MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—In response to inquiries by Marion County Now regarding potential layoffs within the city, Marion Mayor Bill Collins clarified his position, stating it is currently premature to consider such drastic measures. However, he did not dismiss the possibility of cuts, indicating that city departments will be required to submit budgets reduced by 10% by Wednesday, November 26.
In a statement to Marion County Now Collins said:
“We met as a group on Friday, and all department heads were instructed to develop a budget reduction plan,” Collins explained. He emphasized that while the mention of layoffs by City Council members may have been hasty, significant reductions are necessary. “Could it affect employees and positions? Absolutely, it may,” he acknowledged, noting that the 10% cut may not be sufficient to resolve the city’s projected budget deficit of over four million dollars.
Adding to the concerns of Marion citizens, the construction of the new Marion Fire Department project is now on hold. This pause follows the passing of a property levy in 2022 aimed at funding the new build, leaving many residents troubled about the future of essential services.
Complicating matters further, the city faced a significant setback with its payroll system. The implementation of a new ADP payroll system encountered issues when a miscommunication with Fahey Bank led to city funds not being transferred as scheduled. As a result, city employees did not receive their paychecks on Friday. City administration, the bank, and ADP were working collaboratively to resolve the issue promptly, hopefully by days end Friday.
The urgency for immediate budget cuts has been underscored by the financial challenges currently facing the city. Department heads are expected to deliver their proposed expenditure cuts to the Mayor before noon on Wednesday.
Marion County Now will continue to monitor this developing situation.