The city of Marion could grow even bigger due to recent legislation from Sen. Dale Fowler (R-Harrisburg).
“SB2303 amends the municipal code and provides extension for the life of a (tax increment financing) opportunity adopted on Oct. 23, 1996, by the City of Marion for an additional 12 years,” Fowler said at a recent Senate floor debate. “This legislation is extending the path forward to Marion and the region to bring investment, implement improvements and encourage economic growth.”
Marion’s largest manufacturing employers include Aisin Seiki, a Japanese automotive component producer; the Veterans Affairs medical center; Pepsi; Heartland Regional Medical Center; and Blue Cross/Blue Shield Claims Processing Center. Major nearby employers include the United States Penitentiary Marion and John A. Logan College.
“SB2303 will allow a local manufacturing company to extend its current operation with additional manufacturing, transportation and technician jobs just to name a few,” Fowler said.
Nicknamed “The Hub of the Universe” by 50-year Mayor Bob Butler, Marion is the county seat of Williamson County, centered at the junction of Interstate 57 and Route 13. With 230,614 people living within a 30-mile radius of Marion, the city serves 95,000 people daily, according to its website. Of those, 17,413 people actually live within the city boundaries.
Fowler said SB2303 will allow for future economic abilities, “not only for Marion but for the entire region.”
“The existing railroad system, allowing for regionwide transportation opportunities, will create additional transportation and ancillary job opportunities,” Fowler said of the Union Pacific Railroad Co., a 23-state rail line crossing more than 32,000 miles, and Burlington Northern Railroad, which run through Marion.
Fowler said there was no opposition to his bill and all letters of approval from the taxing districts were received.
“SB2303 passed the committee unanimously,” Fowler said. “I respectfully ask for a 'yes' vote.”
SB2303 passed 41-1 and moved out of the Senate.
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