Common Council agenda & minutes — March 17, 2026

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PRESIDENT - BRIAN COWGILL VICE PRESIDENT - ERIKA DEVINE

MARION COMMON COUNCIL AGENDA (,

Regular Meeting - Marion City Hall Council Chambers CITY of MARION
Date: March 17, 2026 COMMON COUNCIL
Time: 7:00 P.M.

CALL TO ORDER

PRAYER: Councilman David Cain

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Councilman Gary Fordyce

ROLL CALL

RECOGNITION-SPOTLIGHT: Art Alive by Alicia

CONSENT AGENDA:
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING March 3, 2026
B. CONSIDERATION OF PRE-APPROVED CLAIMS
C. CONSIDERATION OF CLAIMS

COMMITTEE REPORTS

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

General Ordinance 01-2026- Amending the monthly water user rates 24 reading public hearing
An ordinance amending the monthly water user rates and changes for the City of Marion, Indiana. Speaking:

Utility Director Robin Shrader

Executive summary: Introducing an ordinance to adopt water rates and charges sufficient to support the
Utility’s ongoing revenue requirements and obligations under Indiana Code 8-1.5-3-8

NEW BUSINESS

TIF Management Report
Review of annual Marion Redevelopment Commission TIF Management Report. Speaking: Andy Mouser, Baker
Tilly

Additional Appropriation 02-2026- Motor Vehicle Equipment-15t reading
An ordinance appropriating $240,000 for motor equipment. Speaking: Police Chief David Gilbert

Executive summary: This request outlines the next phase of investment for the police department’s vehicle
fleet. Aside from personnel, vehicles are our most critical resource for providing safe and effective
emergency services.

Additional Appropriation 03-2026- Equipment- 1st reading
An ordinance appropriating $240,000 for equipment. Speaking: Police Chief David Gilbert

Executive summary: This request is partnered with the above request and the Executive Summary shown there

===== page 2 =====
f

vapplies here. With both funding requests approved, the department will be in position to obtain a minimum of
eight (8) police vehicles, including necessary support equipment installed. That number reflects a conservative
estimate of need. It will be incumbent on the department to make the vehicles last for approximately eight (8)
years apiece, which, we believe is a pretty economical responsible approach.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure: Acceptance of the Uniform Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statement.
Speaking: Councilman Dr. Jeffrey Reyes

Executive Summary: The City Council is asked to acknowledge and accept the annual Uniform Conflict of
Interest Disclosure Statement submitted by Dr. Jeffrey Reyes regarding his professional relationship as the
Grant Writer for the City of Marion. This disclosure is submitted in accordance with state law and City policy
to ensure transparency and compliance with ethical standards governing municipal officials and employees.
Acceptance of this disclosure affirms that the city has been notified of the disclosed relationship and that
appropriate safeguards are in place to avoid any actual or perceived conflicts of interest in matters involving
the City of Marion.

Resolution 02-2026 Marion Transit 2027 Grant Application to INDOT
Aresolution authorizing the filing of an application with the Indiana Department of Transportation for A Grant
under sections 5311/5339 of the Federal Transit Act, as amended. Speaking: Andrea Wert- Administrator

Executive summary: This Council Resolution authorizes the Mayor and the Marion Transportation Department
to apply for 2027 federal and state operating and capital expense subsidies the city bus system has received
since 1980. These grant funds are administered by the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) for over
40 public transit systems statewide. This Council Resolution is one of many annual administrative requirements
for receipt of such grant subsidies. Current combined federal and state operating expense subsidy ratios allow
reimbursement of up to 75% of operating expenses. Current federal capital subsidy levels for vehicles are 80-
85% of capital.

Additional Appropriation 04-2026- Park Maintenance- 1st reading
An Additional Appropriation appropriating $85,148 for maintenance at Friendship Corner Speaking Rose
Cadena, Director of Marion Parks and Recreation

Executive summary: The Marion Parks Department is requesting an additional appropriation of $85,148.00
from the Food and Beverage Tax. These funds will be used to ensure that Friendship Corner meets all American
Disabilities Act (ADA) laws and guidelines.

Announcements

===== page 3 =====
REGULAR MEETING —~ MARION COMMON COUNCIL — MARCH 17, 2026 — 7:00 P.M. —
~ CITY HALL

The Common Council of the City of Marion, Indiana met in a regular session on TUESDAY, the
17th day of March 2026, at the hour of 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, City Hall.

On the call of the roll the members were shown to be absent or present as follows:

Present: Cain, Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner, Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine, Cowgill.

Absent:

Prayer: Councilman David Cain

Pledge of Allegiance: Councilman Gary Fordyce

SPOTLIGHT/RECOGNITION: Art Alive with Alecia- Alecia Esarey

¢ Brian Cowgill introduces Councilwoman Erica Devine to highlight a local group.

e Erica Devine introduces Alecia Esarey, owner of Arts Alive with Alecia, a creative studio
in the Boston Hill Center, Marion.

e Alecia Esarey shares her background, including her relocation from Florida and her
passion for art education.

e Alecia describes her studio's offerings, including hands-on workshops using resin and
crushed glass, and her goal to bring creativity to the Marion community.

« Alecia emphasizes that anyone can participate in her classes, regardless of artistic
experience, and invites the public to visit her studio.

CONSENT AGENDA FOR MARCH 17, 2026 preapproved claims and claims for March 17,
2026.
President Brian Cowgill moves for a motion to approve the consent agenda for March 17, 2026.

Motion to approve the consent agenda for March 17, 2026- Cain, second Brunner. Aye: Cain,
Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner, Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine, Cowgill. Nay: none. Motion carries.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

e Gary Fordyce reports on the March 5" utilities department board meeting, including
financials, water adjustments, and sponsorships.

e Mike Cline reports on the Board of Aviation Commissioners, including the final design
for the parallel taxiway and federal grant funding for various projects.

« Erika Devine reports on the Board of Works meeting, including an amendment to the
scoping agreement for the Ballard Field project and a quarterly report from the
Transportation Department.

GENERAL ORDINANCE 01-2026- Water Rate Increase 2" reading public hearing
An ordinance amending the monthly water user rates and changes for the City of Marion,
Indiana.

¢ Robin Shrader explains the proposed 39.21% increase, citing the need to address debt
service increases, operating costs, and capital improvement projects.

Public hearing

===== page 4 =====
¢ Molly Earley expresses support for the rate increase, emphasizing the importance of
financial stability for the utility.

« Charles Moon supports the increase, comparing the cost to other expenses and
highlighting the quality of Marion's water.

Public hearing closed

e Brian Cowgill thanks the council, utilities, and Baker Tilly for their efforts in reaching a
fair rate increase.

Motion to suspend the rules for General Ordinance 01-2026 - Fordyce, second Cline. Aye: Cain,
Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner, Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine, Cowgill. Nay: none. Motion passes.

Motion to pass General Ordinance 01-2026- Fordyce, second Whitton. Aye: Cain, Reyes,
Brunner, Fordyce, Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine, Cowgill. Nay: none. Motion passes.

TIF MANAGEMENT REPORT from Baker Tilly
Review of annual Marion Redevelopment Commission TIF Management Report.

« Andy Mouser and Matt Georges present the TIF Management Report, detailing the
activities and financials of the redevelopment commission for 2025.

¢ The report includes information on TIF allocation areas, revenues, expenditures, and
ending balances.

« The presentation highlights the flexibility of TIF funds and the importance of regular
reporting to the state.

¢ The report also includes a look forward to future TIF projects and the need for ongoing
financial planning.

No action taken.

ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION 02-2026- Police Vehicle Fleet 1° reading
An ordinance appropriating $240,000 for motor equipment.

¢ Chief David Gilbert and Deputy Chief Mark Stefanatos explain the need for a rotating
fleet of vehicles to ensure safety and reliability.

¢ The proposal includes funding for new vehicles and upfitting costs, emphasizing the
benefits of having warranties and newer vehicles.

« Council members discuss the importance of maintaining a safe and effective police fleet,
with some suggesting questioning the number of vehicles to be replaced.

Motion to pass Additional Appropriation 02-2026 to second reading public hearing- Cain,
second Fordyce. Aye: Cain, Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner, Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine,
Cowgill. Nay: none. Motion carries.

ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION 03-2026- Police Vehicle Fleet (continued) 1“ reading
An ordinance appropriating $240,000 for motor equipment.


===== page 5 =====
« Brian Cowgill opens the discussion for Additional Appropriation 3-2026, which is
identical to the previous appropriation.

¢ Council members reiterate their support for the proposal, emphasizing the importance of
rotating the police vehicle fleet.

Motion to pass Additional Appropriation 03-2026 to second reading public hearing- Cain,
second Cline. Aye: Cain, Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner, Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine, Cowgill.
Nay: none. Motion carries.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST DISCLOSURE
Acceptance of the Uniform of Conflict-of-Interest Disclosure Statement.

e Dr. Jeff Reyes discloses his continued work as a grant writer for the city, emphasizing the
importance of securing funding for various departments,
¢ The council accepts the disclosure without further discussion.

No action taken.
RESOLUTION 02-2026-Marion Transit 2027 Grant Application

A resolution authorizing the filing of an application with the Indiana Department of
Transportation for a grant under sections 5311/5339 of the Federal Transit Act, as amended.

e Andrea Wert presents Resolution 2-2026, authorizing the application for a 2027 fiscal
year grant from INDOT.

e The grant application seeks funding for transportation department operations, including
salaries, fuel, and the purchase of new buses.

e The council supports the resolution, recognizing the importance of securing grant funding
for the city's transportation needs.

Motion to pass Resolution 02-2026- Cain, second Fordyce. Aye: Cain, Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner,
Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine, Cowgill. Nay: none. Motion carries.

ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION 04-2026-Park Maintenance
An additional appropriation appropriating $85,148 for maintenance at Friendship Corner.

¢ Rose Cadena requests $85,148 for ADA compliance improvements at Friendship Corner.

e The funds will be used to replace non-compliant surfaces with poured-in-place surfacing.

e The council supports the appropriation, recognizing the importance of ADA compliance
in city parks.

Motion to pass Additional Appropriation 04-2026 to second reading public hearing- Cain,
second Cline. Aye: Cain, Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner, Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine, Cowgill.
Nay: none. Motion carries.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS
e Brian Cowgill announces the postponement of the May 5" council meeting to May 6th
due to Election Day.
e David Cain promotes the Marion Easter Pageant, encouraging the public to attend.
e Jim Brunner reminds everyone there is an extra week in between council meetings this
time.

Motion to adjourn: Cain, second Fordyce. Aye: Cain, Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner, Cline, Marshall,
Whitton, Devine, Cowgill. Nay: none. Motion carries.

The meeting was Gjoumed at 8:18 pm.


===== page 7 =====
PRESIDENT - BRIAN COWGILL VICE PRESIDENT - ERIKA DEVINE

MARION COMMON COUNCIL AGENDA (,

Regular Meeting - Marion City Hall Council Chambers CITY of MARION
Date: March 17, 2026 COMMON COUNCIL
Time: 7:00 P.M.

CALL TO ORDER

PRAYER: Councilman David Cain

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Councilman Gary Fordyce

ROLL CALL

RECOGNITION-SPOTLIGHT: Art Alive by Alicia

CONSENT AGENDA:
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING March 3, 2026
B. CONSIDERATION OF PRE-APPROVED CLAIMS
C. CONSIDERATION OF CLAIMS

COMMITTEE REPORTS

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

General Ordinance 01-2026- Amending the monthly water user rates 24 reading public hearing
An ordinance amending the monthly water user rates and changes for the City of Marion, Indiana. Speaking:

Utility Director Robin Shrader

Executive summary: Introducing an ordinance to adopt water rates and charges sufficient to support the
Utility’s ongoing revenue requirements and obligations under Indiana Code 8-1.5-3-8

NEW BUSINESS

TIF Management Report
Review of annual Marion Redevelopment Commission TIF Management Report. Speaking: Andy Mouser, Baker
Tilly

Additional Appropriation 02-2026- Motor Vehicle Equipment-15t reading
An ordinance appropriating $240,000 for motor equipment. Speaking: Police Chief David Gilbert

Executive summary: This request outlines the next phase of investment for the police department’s vehicle
fleet. Aside from personnel, vehicles are our most critical resource for providing safe and effective
emergency services.

Additional Appropriation 03-2026- Equipment- 1st reading
An ordinance appropriating $240,000 for equipment. Speaking: Police Chief David Gilbert

Executive summary: This request is partnered with the above request and the Executive Summary shown there

===== page 8 =====
f

vapplies here. With both funding requests approved, the department will be in position to obtain a minimum of
eight (8) police vehicles, including necessary support equipment installed. That number reflects a conservative
estimate of need. It will be incumbent on the department to make the vehicles last for approximately eight (8)
years apiece, which, we believe is a pretty economical responsible approach.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure: Acceptance of the Uniform Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statement.
Speaking: Councilman Dr. Jeffrey Reyes

Executive Summary: The City Council is asked to acknowledge and accept the annual Uniform Conflict of
Interest Disclosure Statement submitted by Dr. Jeffrey Reyes regarding his professional relationship as the
Grant Writer for the City of Marion. This disclosure is submitted in accordance with state law and City policy
to ensure transparency and compliance with ethical standards governing municipal officials and employees.
Acceptance of this disclosure affirms that the city has been notified of the disclosed relationship and that
appropriate safeguards are in place to avoid any actual or perceived conflicts of interest in matters involving
the City of Marion.

Resolution 02-2026 Marion Transit 2027 Grant Application to INDOT
Aresolution authorizing the filing of an application with the Indiana Department of Transportation for A Grant
under sections 5311/5339 of the Federal Transit Act, as amended. Speaking: Andrea Wert- Administrator

Executive summary: This Council Resolution authorizes the Mayor and the Marion Transportation Department
to apply for 2027 federal and state operating and capital expense subsidies the city bus system has received
since 1980. These grant funds are administered by the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) for over
40 public transit systems statewide. This Council Resolution is one of many annual administrative requirements
for receipt of such grant subsidies. Current combined federal and state operating expense subsidy ratios allow
reimbursement of up to 75% of operating expenses. Current federal capital subsidy levels for vehicles are 80-
85% of capital.

Additional Appropriation 04-2026- Park Maintenance- 1st reading
An Additional Appropriation appropriating $85,148 for maintenance at Friendship Corner Speaking Rose
Cadena, Director of Marion Parks and Recreation

Executive summary: The Marion Parks Department is requesting an additional appropriation of $85,148.00
from the Food and Beverage Tax. These funds will be used to ensure that Friendship Corner meets all American
Disabilities Act (ADA) laws and guidelines.

Announcements

===== page 9 =====
REGULAR MEETING —~ MARION COMMON COUNCIL — MARCH 17, 2026 — 7:00 P.M. —
~ CITY HALL

The Common Council of the City of Marion, Indiana met in a regular session on TUESDAY, the
17th day of March 2026, at the hour of 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, City Hall.

On the call of the roll the members were shown to be absent or present as follows:

Present: Cain, Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner, Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine, Cowgill.

Absent:

Prayer: Councilman David Cain

Pledge of Allegiance: Councilman Gary Fordyce

SPOTLIGHT/RECOGNITION: Art Alive with Alecia- Alecia Esarey

¢ Brian Cowgill introduces Councilwoman Erica Devine to highlight a local group.

e Erica Devine introduces Alecia Esarey, owner of Arts Alive with Alecia, a creative studio
in the Boston Hill Center, Marion.

e Alecia Esarey shares her background, including her relocation from Florida and her
passion for art education.

e Alecia describes her studio's offerings, including hands-on workshops using resin and
crushed glass, and her goal to bring creativity to the Marion community.

« Alecia emphasizes that anyone can participate in her classes, regardless of artistic
experience, and invites the public to visit her studio.

CONSENT AGENDA FOR MARCH 17, 2026 preapproved claims and claims for March 17,
2026.
President Brian Cowgill moves for a motion to approve the consent agenda for March 17, 2026.

Motion to approve the consent agenda for March 17, 2026- Cain, second Brunner. Aye: Cain,
Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner, Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine, Cowgill. Nay: none. Motion carries.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

e Gary Fordyce reports on the March 5" utilities department board meeting, including
financials, water adjustments, and sponsorships.

e Mike Cline reports on the Board of Aviation Commissioners, including the final design
for the parallel taxiway and federal grant funding for various projects.

« Erika Devine reports on the Board of Works meeting, including an amendment to the
scoping agreement for the Ballard Field project and a quarterly report from the
Transportation Department.

GENERAL ORDINANCE 01-2026- Water Rate Increase 2" reading public hearing
An ordinance amending the monthly water user rates and changes for the City of Marion,
Indiana.

¢ Robin Shrader explains the proposed 39.21% increase, citing the need to address debt
service increases, operating costs, and capital improvement projects.

Public hearing

===== page 10 =====
¢ Molly Earley expresses support for the rate increase, emphasizing the importance of
financial stability for the utility.

« Charles Moon supports the increase, comparing the cost to other expenses and
highlighting the quality of Marion's water.

Public hearing closed

e Brian Cowgill thanks the council, utilities, and Baker Tilly for their efforts in reaching a
fair rate increase.

Motion to suspend the rules for General Ordinance 01-2026 - Fordyce, second Cline. Aye: Cain,
Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner, Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine, Cowgill. Nay: none. Motion passes.

Motion to pass General Ordinance 01-2026- Fordyce, second Whitton. Aye: Cain, Reyes,
Brunner, Fordyce, Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine, Cowgill. Nay: none. Motion passes.

TIF MANAGEMENT REPORT from Baker Tilly
Review of annual Marion Redevelopment Commission TIF Management Report.

« Andy Mouser and Matt Georges present the TIF Management Report, detailing the
activities and financials of the redevelopment commission for 2025.

¢ The report includes information on TIF allocation areas, revenues, expenditures, and
ending balances.

« The presentation highlights the flexibility of TIF funds and the importance of regular
reporting to the state.

¢ The report also includes a look forward to future TIF projects and the need for ongoing
financial planning.

No action taken.

ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION 02-2026- Police Vehicle Fleet 1° reading
An ordinance appropriating $240,000 for motor equipment.

¢ Chief David Gilbert and Deputy Chief Mark Stefanatos explain the need for a rotating
fleet of vehicles to ensure safety and reliability.

¢ The proposal includes funding for new vehicles and upfitting costs, emphasizing the
benefits of having warranties and newer vehicles.

« Council members discuss the importance of maintaining a safe and effective police fleet,
with some suggesting questioning the number of vehicles to be replaced.

Motion to pass Additional Appropriation 02-2026 to second reading public hearing- Cain,
second Fordyce. Aye: Cain, Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner, Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine,
Cowgill. Nay: none. Motion carries.

ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION 03-2026- Police Vehicle Fleet (continued) 1“ reading
An ordinance appropriating $240,000 for motor equipment.


===== page 11 =====
« Brian Cowgill opens the discussion for Additional Appropriation 3-2026, which is
identical to the previous appropriation.

¢ Council members reiterate their support for the proposal, emphasizing the importance of
rotating the police vehicle fleet.

Motion to pass Additional Appropriation 03-2026 to second reading public hearing- Cain,
second Cline. Aye: Cain, Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner, Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine, Cowgill.
Nay: none. Motion carries.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST DISCLOSURE
Acceptance of the Uniform of Conflict-of-Interest Disclosure Statement.

e Dr. Jeff Reyes discloses his continued work as a grant writer for the city, emphasizing the
importance of securing funding for various departments,
¢ The council accepts the disclosure without further discussion.

No action taken.
RESOLUTION 02-2026-Marion Transit 2027 Grant Application

A resolution authorizing the filing of an application with the Indiana Department of
Transportation for a grant under sections 5311/5339 of the Federal Transit Act, as amended.

e Andrea Wert presents Resolution 2-2026, authorizing the application for a 2027 fiscal
year grant from INDOT.

e The grant application seeks funding for transportation department operations, including
salaries, fuel, and the purchase of new buses.

e The council supports the resolution, recognizing the importance of securing grant funding
for the city's transportation needs.

Motion to pass Resolution 02-2026- Cain, second Fordyce. Aye: Cain, Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner,
Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine, Cowgill. Nay: none. Motion carries.

ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION 04-2026-Park Maintenance
An additional appropriation appropriating $85,148 for maintenance at Friendship Corner.

¢ Rose Cadena requests $85,148 for ADA compliance improvements at Friendship Corner.

e The funds will be used to replace non-compliant surfaces with poured-in-place surfacing.

e The council supports the appropriation, recognizing the importance of ADA compliance
in city parks.

Motion to pass Additional Appropriation 04-2026 to second reading public hearing- Cain,
second Cline. Aye: Cain, Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner, Cline, Marshall, Whitton, Devine, Cowgill.
Nay: none. Motion carries.

===== page 12 =====
ANNOUNCEMENTS
e Brian Cowgill announces the postponement of the May 5" council meeting to May 6th
due to Election Day.
e David Cain promotes the Marion Easter Pageant, encouraging the public to attend.
e Jim Brunner reminds everyone there is an extra week in between council meetings this
time.

Motion to adjourn: Cain, second Fordyce. Aye: Cain, Reyes, Fordyce, Brunner, Cline, Marshall,
Whitton, Devine, Cowgill. Nay: none. Motion carries.

The meeting was Gjoumed at 8:18 pm.