MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—Mary Stoneburner, the President of Marion City Council, is championing a new initiative: “Love Your City & Love Your Neighborhood.” Stoneburner, an educator by background, is leveraging her communication skills to foster a stronger connection between the Council, Administration, civic leaders, and the public.
Stoneburner’s vision for Marion is one of unity and mutual respect. “We need to tear down the barriers that divide us and find common ground,” she states. “We don’t have to agree on everything but we can agree to disagree in a respectful and meaningful manner.” She believes that respecting differences and finding consensus are key to building a healthy and strong community.
Originally from Lima, Stoneburner sees similarities between the two cities and appreciates the friendly, down-to-earth nature of Marion’s citizens. She is excited about the growth in Marion’s downtown area and hopes to see this development expand into the neighborhoods.
“Our City Council members are in a leadership position to be the catalyst for neighborhood development,” says Stoneburner. “As a council, we can work together with neighborhood citizens, businesses, and church leaders to accomplish this.” She is eager to build on Mayor Collins’ “Love Your City” initiative with her own “Love Your Neighborhood” campaign.
Looking ahead, Stoneburner is optimistic about Marion’s future. She invites citizens to attend City Council meetings, share ideas and concerns, and meet with their City Ward Council members and At-Large Council members. Information about the City Council meetings and agenda can be found at Marion City Council’s website.
Stoneburner concludes, “I love our city and want to see all citizens feel valued and that their voice counts. I look forward to doing my part in making Marion a great place for families to live and businesses to thrive.”