In the process of creating an extensive article about the Robert L. Butler administration (1963-2018) a few years back I searched through the Southern Illinoisan newspaper archives back to the late 1950’s and took note of significant events that occurred in Marion forward to about 2016. Events include city government decisions, actions, budgets, business openings and closings, and anything thought noteworthy between 1954 and 2016.
1954, Highway Dept. this year allocated money for purchase of right of ways for relocating Rt. 13 from Rt. 37 to Fair, 40 feet wide. (Converting DeYoung which was a back street at the time to new Rt. 13)
Oct 28, 1960, Marion Public Square bypassed by DeYoung (new Rt. 13) for first time
Sept. 1961, Governor Otto Kerner held ribbon cutting ceremony on I-57 section from Marion to Dongola
December 1964, I-57 at Marion to S. side of W. Frankfort opened.
April 5, 1963, Butler 38 has been asst. WC state’s attorney and has maintained a private law practice 10 years in Marion.
April 1963, Robert Butler’s platform when running for Mayor:
- Jobs, Either local industry must expand to where it can take care of the surplus labor force or we’ve got to bring industry into this area and keep the industry we have now.
- Assure the people and industry that we have water and sewer to support growth.
- Finances, city was app. $90,000 in red
- Contracts not being let on competitive basis
- Audits should be public so people know where their money is being spent
- Motor fuel tax funds to construct or surface existing and newly acquired streets
- Animal control
- Flooding
April 15, 1963, one day before the election, incumbent Mayor Bob Cooksey stated that he would beat newcomer Butler handily in the election. Cooksey was going for third term. Butler made issues of cutting out waste in spending and confusion in administration. Saying the city can operate within its budget by trimming fat and said the city must adopt a long range plan for improvements and growth instead of “willy nilly” projects.
April 16, 1963, election results on 17th. Butler over Cooksey 2,914 to 2,227, commissioners were Adolph Fluck, Dr. Everett Jeter, William Harris and Lawrence Feurer
May 7, 1963, night of first council meeting fire sweeps square prompting application of federal money to improve outdated water lines.
May 8, 1963, city to seek grant to improve water lines after fire on square
May 19, 1963, Marion youth center opens
May 28, 1963, city purchases property surrounding sewer plant in anticipation of expansion
July 1963, commencement of $1,089,000 waterworks improvements, new raw water line, larger water tower and extension of water mains. ½ came from grant, the rest in revenue bond.
August 1963, building inspector and committee formed to prepare plumbing and electrical codes
Sept. 1963, City develops overall plan to improve water, zoning, codes, and accumulate money from tarring and chipping streets to develop hard surface streets in order to accommodate growth and industry.
Dec. 17, 1963, large fire destroys N. Market street block and defines need for water improvements
1964, Marion hosts county wide Quasqui-centennial celebration, county & city are 125 years old.
Dec. 27, 1964 15 in raw water line and water tower completed and new mains installed
Dec. 1965, bought lot for parking next to library
1965 in review, 11 annexations including the VA hospital grounds, hard surface street improvement began. Three sewage lagoons added covering 22 acres and a chlorinating pool. Instituted a new 40 acre landfill garbage disposal system. Marion high school students moved into new building on S. Carbon. New businesses open in Westmore, Tempo & A&P, Robert Hall store on new 13
Mar 1966, plans for extending water lines along new 13 to truck stop area
April 1966, building codes adapted
Oct, 1966, further street paving, street lights and annexations
April election 1967, Bob Cooksey loses Mayoral race again to Butler
Dec 1967, state regional office building site chosen, 21 annexations to the city, study to determine feasibility of sewage lagoon to extend facilities west of I-57. Ramada Inn, Biederman’s furniture and Leon Webb auto sales opened, new facilities at Pyramid park opened.
1968, Summary of phenomenal construction, Pepsi Cola Bottling Co $1.6 million plant 90 complete in Dec., work started Aug 12, on $1.25 million Holiday Inn, Fabick machinery $125,00 addition, CIPS $650,000 Southern Div. office building breaks ground on Oct. 16., Marion Hospital, $418,280 third floor addition nearing completion. $300,000 addition to Temp in Westmore plaza, Marion Manor shelter care $150,000 opened in Oct., Bank of Marion opened drive in facility at $175,000. All total, $4,668,000 with further $5.8 million during the year. $3 million expansion and modernization for VA planned. New $1 million dollar court house plan approved. City lake expanded by 40 acres, 3x more water.
Nov. 9, 1968, 5.5 earthquake with 4.5 aftershock damages city. Damages estimated at $100,000
Dec. 1969, Marion new fire station completed on Court street, plans made to change street lights from incandescent to mercury vapor over 3 years.
Jan 1970, plans made for removal of courthouse and development of tower square as courthouse construction is nearing completion. Housing units (60) for the elderly planned, Butler delegate to Constitutional Convention for Illinois.
1971 courthouse completed
January 1972 demolition of old courthouse begins
April 1972, bids let for downtown plaza, work to start by end of month. Most all done by Dec. 31 except for bell. Construction to start soon on Marion Plaza West.
Dec 1972, council approves 1.2 million dollar street improvement plan,
Jan 1973, final Scotsboro annexation completed, council cuts personal property taxes, Mohr Value and People’s Bank added to city. F.W. Woolworth closing Dec. 31
1973, Butler is Chambers Man of the Year
1974 Boswell addition, Moore Park, 440 acres around old Marion drive in, expanded 1.7 miles to Rt. 148 on new 13. (included East Lawn Memorial Gardens.) City purchased and remodeled old Orpheum Theater as new city civic center. Applied for 2.2 million dollar sewer plant, applied for economic development grant to develop a 50 acre industrial park on Skyline Drive owned by L.J. Wohlwend. Later turned down due to lack of matching funds. In July, the new 1.1 million dollar hospital wing was dedicated. Civic center opened in august 1974.
Feb 1975, Kerasotes Theater in Town & Country nears completion.
Mar. 1975, applies for $3.3 million sewer plant expansion, N. Carbon widened from W. Main.
Apr 1975, Open house at new high rise apartment building.
May 1975, Street repaving, Marion accepts $3 million dollar grant for new sewer plant with $1 million matching.
Aug. 1975, Quality stamp store opens on square. Creek survey approved to study flooding.
Sept. 1975, $600,000 bond issue passes voters for $4 million sewer plant expansion. Special census by Bureau of census approved to realign census count due to the number of annexations to the city.
Oct. 1975, City hospital to get Kroger building (next door) for its use sooner.
Nov. 1975, Butler considers running for associate judge in first judicial circuit and considered senate seat against Gene John.
Dec. 1975, unofficial census count of 13,150. Water and sewer get computerized billing machine. Butler will seek nomination for 59th legislative district representative. He ran unsuccessfully for senate in Republican primary in 1972.
Mar 7, 1976, Pres. Gerald Ford visits area, 2 days later Candidate Ronald Reagan visits on 9th. Butler becomes chairman of the WC Republican party ousting Melvin fisher
Apr 1976, Marion received Economic Development grant of $612,000 with $408,000 match for total of $1.02 million for 50 acre industrial park on west edge between old and new 13. Money is for water tower 500,000 gal, water, sewer and paved streets.
May 1976, Jaycees city flag design contest approved, work progressing on new sewer plant. City cleaning up Goddard chapel and installing restrooms.
Aug 29, 1976, Downtown improvements article. Tower done? WT Grant to be occupied by .JC. Penney.
Aug 31, 1976, Marion may buy IC RR tracks for CO&E use.
Nov. 1976, Butler lost bid for State Representative to Clyde Choate
Dec 14, 1976, Council approves down payment on potential $250,000 for 14.5 miles of ICG railroad track toward Carbondale. 28th, City to use new landfill by Spillertown.
Feb. 1976, City annexes Smith addition, N. end of State St. to Red Row & Gribble property on old Creal road.
Mar 25, 1976, ICG reaches agreement to sell to Marion at $400,000, 29th, flooding cause renewed plea to the state for flood study in Marion. Water was 1 ft higher than record set in 1961. Agreement reached with ICG to pay $400,000 for the eastern 8 miles of track to Crainville.
March 27, 1977, 5 in of rain in 12 hours floods city, Tempo Department store burns. Over 130 people evacuated from homes. Flooding causes over $800,000 in damage, 7 inches of rain total.
Apr. 1977, more studies by state on flooding will be undertaken, sewer plant under construction, committee formed to manage the new industrial park, March flooding considered disaster. Butler receives local Jaycees Distinguished Service Award. Corp of Engineers in to study flooding.
May 1977, Corp of Engineers will not help with flooding. City to widen N. Carbon by shopping centers to allow third turn lane for increased traffic.
June 1977, resurfacing some streets and still oil & chipping others. Renovation of Goddard Chapel.
July 1977, more flood talk and possible cures. Council considers new budget record of $12,658,61.00
Sept. 1977, Grand opening of 50 acre industrial park held.
Oct. 1977, Proposal to eliminate parking meters. Butler resigns as WC Rep Party Chairman.
Dec. 1977, Council votes to from its own housing authority since WC group didn’t seem to have time. County authority currently has 164 units in Marion. Mohr value to close, Walmart to rebuild where Tempo department store was.
May 1978, S.Russell St. to be paved.
July 1978, $10.7 mill budget, new $2 million water filtration system. City hospital management $5 million
Aug 1978, 243 acre golf course and housing development planned next to industrial park on Skyline drive by developer Richard Heath.
Dec 1978, Article on downtown Marion adopting free parking downtown? Fifth Street extension to unsnarl Carbon St. traffic.
Feb 27, 1979, Snowstorm record, 21 “. Caused deficit in city of $78,000. 200 people taken to Longfellow school. All highways closed, people stranded on interstate 57. City had been in red for 20 years before Butler.
June 20, 1979, Final deal made on ICG railroad track purchase, 8.5 miles for $200,000
July 1979, City Council proposes $12 million budget, planning new water plant, old plant built in 1920.
Aug 1979 approves $12.1 million budget, includes hot lunch program for the elderly held at Marion Lion’s Club depot. Spillertown residents petition to be annexed. Housing has started but golf course stalled at Skyline drives Saluki Lake area.
Sept. 1979, Spillertown annexation request in court.
Dec. 1979, 15 Annexations in the year including S. Market Rd, old Creal Springs Road, Ray Smith and Boswell subdivision, along Fair Street and the former Scottsboro community.
1979 had 23 annexations, pushing the city limits to over 8.4 square mile and boosted its population well past record high levels set during its mining boom days of the 1920’s. 18 of the annexations occurred during the last week of 1979 adding 66 acres of land, 50 to 55 homes, and an estimated 175 to 190 people. Marion was estimated to be about 1.5 square miles and began to mushroom in 1963 when Butler’s policy of refusing water and sewer to property not in city limits brought immediate growth. In 1965, Marion had spread over 4.3 square miles, in Nov. 1975 it covered 6.45 square miles and now 8.4 sq. miles. In 1950, there were 10, 459 residents, in 1960 11,274, in 1970 11,724. After I-57 was completed, in 1972 a special census showed 12, 889 and the 1975 special census showed 13,176. Current pop. Is estimated at 14,900.
Feb 26, 1980, Butler wants to annex strip along Rt. 13 again containing portions of airport. City water plant dated needs replaced, price put on potential Senior Citizen Center. $230,000 community development grant will be used to pay $140,000 for old Bracy building from the Henry Bracy estate and remainder used to renovate and furnish building.
Mar. 1980, Bracy building to be purchased next week. Marion to sell ICG tracks to CO & E. for $209,000. Marion’s annexation policy, especially aimed at a strip in front of airport called “They’re going at it like an octopus in every direction.”
June 29, 1980 & July 2nd windstorm causes $1 million damage to Marion, $15-20 million countywide. Associated flooding.
July 1980, record high temps nationwide, locally temps as high as 109, from July 6-20, temps remained over 100.
Aug 11, 1980, Westmore Plaza established in 1965, Ramada Inn 1967, Holiday Inn 1969, Town & Country in 1973, Marion Plaza in 1978, eliminated tax in 1973, I-57 opened north to JC six months before his election. Butler’s tight fist with city funds is a joke even with his father, who once called his son “ the cheapest man I know.” Butler used city stationary printed with the name of his predecessor, whom he defeated twice, until it ran out, two years after his election.
Sept 1980, citizens will not have to pay city taxes on their real estate tax again for the 7th year, after dropping in 1964 the tax was eliminated in 1973
Oct. 1980, Marion spent $280,000 preparing lagoon, south of Marion Plaza, then filling it once the city opened the new sewer plant in 1977
Nov. 19, 1980, Radiologist to rent form Kroger building next to hospital, purchased 8 years ago by city for $138,000. Work still continuing on renovating Senior citizen center.
Dec. 1980, Butler high rise on N. Market to be completed by next fall. Latest census record show Marion at 13,885 in 6,243 houses. City lake becoming an issue with poor water quality and shortages. Lake was built in 1921 and tripled in capacity by an addition nine years ago.
1981 in review, Dunston building bought by city for $10,500 and razed, Butler High Rise 100 unit building completed and the construction of 49 low income housing units at nine site in city started, two new fire trucks including a used pumper truck,
May 29, 1982, Tornado strikes Marion, $85-100 million damage, nearly 1,000 homeless, 10 dead. Mayor Robert Butler was among the injured with cuts on his right arm and head. He was driving his car through the Town and Country Village parking lot when the twister hurled his car against a pole and piled another auto on top of his. After the storm passed, he climbed out of the window of his car, sought medical help, and then began to help co-ordinate clean-up and rescue operations.
1982, Uptowner and Cox Hardware closed this year. J.C. Penney to close in Jan 1983. Flooding in Marion
Jan 1983, Approval to extend Boulevard from Court to Carbon St. ½ acre deeded to Marion Chamber of Commerce for $1 per year lease.
Feb 1983, Butler banned from practicing law in Illinois.
April, 1983, Marion to get Rend Lake water for emergencies only. Downtown square sidewalk improvements planned. Butler reprimanded over mishandling client cases in 1977-79. 2 year suspension.
May 1983, Mack’s super foods open on W. Main. Saluki National Golf Course opening delayed again. More Flood control talk.
June 1983, The VA wanted to sell a strip of land 3,800 feet long by five feet wide. Butler noted the long but narrow proportion of the land, “It’ll be a perfect place for a spaghetti factory.”
Aug. 1983, Boulevard extension delayed due to small parcel belonging to Russell St. Park. Water conservation called for to control water availability and strain on aged water system. Corp of Engineers to restudy Marion flooding. The last three floods, May 1983, Feb. 1982 and December 1982. Butler writes second letter to Pres. Reagan about the property hang up at Russell Park blocking the Boulevard extension. City investigates possibility of using Devil’s Kitchen for city’s primary water source
Sept. 4, 1983, Extensive flooding articles in Southern Illinoisan. City adapts ordinance not to allow building in flood plains. City conducts flood plain surveys to determine damage from previous floods to support case. Ground breaking for new Pepsi bottling plant.
Oct. 3, 1983, Biographical article about Butler growing up. Devils kitchen still considered as water source. Flood survey underway. Saluki golf course still questionable. Council votes to buy golf course.
Nov. 1983, City to renovate old IC depot for use by Matrix Sales on N. Market St.
Jan 1984, Boulevard extension still stalled due to ½ acre tract.
Mar 1984, $1.3 million grant from IEPA to renovate ailing sewer system installed in 1976. Storm warning sirens installed and tested after difficulty. Council approves new courthouse expansion plans.
May 1984, Butler write Pres Reagan again, this time for use of Devil’s Kitchen water for city use.
May 1984, George Lindsay “Goober” at Marion truck stop. PCB scare from Crab Orchard Lake water. 48 acres on North of Saluki National Golf Course to be auctioned off by Sheriff.
June 1984, City gets 500,000 grant to finance building of site for Patton Manufacturing in industrial park. Approval from state for Boulevard extension moving slowly. Finally gets tentative approval. June 26, got final approval on Boulevard extension.
July 1984, $19.4 mil budget for year. Butler has written 3 books, yet to be published. The Republic and President O’Ryan, A lighter View of Politics and McIntosh’s Revenge. A Lighter View was written directly based on his own experience as Mayor. American Gas & Wash to open around Sept.
July 31, 1984, When persons complained about a new eye clinic building in town being and eyesore to Butler, he responded, “ I really haven’t heard any reports of anybody’s optic nerve having been so pommeled by looking at it that it has been necessary to issue white canes or seeing eye dogs for anyone.”
Aug 1984, Army Corps of Engineers drops Marion’s request for flood control help again. City to receive app. $1.4 million IEPA grant to help restore the sewer plant (defective equip, lawsuit by city pending). Industrial park on hold (Via trucking scheduled to inhabit it. Butler was considered for senate to take the place of Sen Gene Johns after his death.
Sept. 1984, Marion gets $911,500 grant from economic development admin for a $1.6 million water treatment plant
Oct 1984, Groundbreaking for WDDD radio station on Rt. 37 north. Devils Kitchen still a consideration for water source.
Nov. 1984, City pulls out of Saluki National contract. Course still undeveloped, no financing found by developer Heath.
Nov 20, 1984, Herrin tries to annex to Rt. 13 and grab sewer at airport. Sewer extensions planned for east when Adams and Lee equipment Co. are annexed into city.
Dec. 1984, Herrin annexations reach Rt. 13. West Main from Carbon to state office building to be turned into three lane (one turn lane) due to accidents near Dairy Queen. Marion denied Devils Kitchen water.
January 1985, Bids to be let for Boulevard extension from Carbon to Court. When the Herrin newspaper used an unidentified source to indicate that perhaps Marion had supplied incorrect figures to the EPA in order to have Rend Lake placed on the agency’s restricted status list, Butler concluded,” We have nothing but peace in our hearts and goodwill toward all these morons. We know they can’t help themselves.”
Apr 1985, city annexes property along new 13 across from airport, Devils Kitchen still possible, Simmons property 22.5 acres next to airport annexed, City clerk Maureen Johnson retired this month, her ass’t. Winifred Wallin will take her place. TCI cable to expand service.
May 1985, application to HUD for 15 low rent housing units to be installed in Gents addition. Developer Timmons options 450 acre tract on N. side of New 13 around Skyline drive for development. 7 acres south of DIY home center annexed, LB Hunter retires as police chief Ron Swafford appointed chief, AC Storme retires from school system.
June 85, airport authority offers getting water from Herrin and annexation on the west side and sewer from Marion and annexation on the south side. It was argued over.
July 85, ILL Supreme court pulls Butlers law license for three years. Work starts on new Chamber office building on W. Main. Hampton Inn bonds voted for $4 million. $20 million dollar budget appropriation passed. 55 acre Skyline Drive park is filled and other south of Marion Plaza only 4 acres remain. City finally annexes 100 foot wide strip in front of airport, 11.46 acres and is to provide sewer to the airport.
Aug 1985, Marion West plans unveiled, include a shopping mall, City annexes 12.5 acres on south side of 13 across from airport, Airport pulls out of sewer contract with city.
Sept 7, 1985, Marion to get 911 emergency service. Marion lets $1.78 million sewer plant contract.
Sept. 1985, Marion still has plans for black community center, check back in Oct with plans. Second McDonalds and Super 8 Motel coming to Marion.
Oct. 1985, Construction Machinery Corp coming east of town by Jacks Marine. City to receive supplemental IEPA grant of $95,000 for sewer dept. Construction should begin in fall at Boyton Community Center.
Nov. 1985, Shoney’s coming to Marion. Agreement with airport, Marion runs line under Rt. 13 to airport, installs lift station which airport pays for. Marion to de-annex earlier annexed property. If and when Marion’s annexations reach the airport, the airport will allow Marion to annex 100 foot strip. This was all finally agreed to by Marion in December. Sugar Creek Water District formed in 1985
Jan 1986, Hearing to determine adding four lanes from the end of four lane at 166 and extend to the Saline County line. 7 acres on South side of new Rt.13 extends city almost to Rt.148. Penzoil moves in to old Bracy building. 17 more acres on new 13 annexed, city now reaches 148.
Feb 1986, city annexes Airport Business Center on SE corner of Rt. 148 & Rt. 13. Absher motors seeking loan to move to new Rt. 13 west.
Apr. 1986, Marion prepares for new water plant work.
June 1986, Wolohan Lumber held grand opening on Halfway Rd.
July 1986, Groundbreaking at UPS terminal, Marion Toyota groundbreaking, H. Winters building in 100 block burns.
Sept. 1986, Regarding Marion’s need for new water source, Butler calls gov officials “dunderhead bureaucrats.” Grand opening of Bob Stotlar building center.
Oct. 1986, Butler describes Ken Gray as “He doesn’t suffer from the ‘We can paddle your canoe better than you syndrome.” Gray comes up with compromised use of Devils Kitchen by making excess water in holding reservoir available that goes over spillway. But Fish & Wildlife stand in the way. Marion receives grant for $173,000 for housing rehab & drainage improvements, city to contribute $68,000 for Boyton Street center but not as part of grant. Groundbreaking for Hook’s Drug Store.
Nov. 1986, City gets federal approval to extract excess Devils Kitchen water, Butler in past has called federal officials, “beetle browed bureaucrats and dunderheads.”
Jan 1987, Uzzle’s Floorville opens on DeYoung
Feb. 1987, extra property added to city cemetery on north end along east side of 37, candidates for mayor are Butler, Ben Bruce & Ron Emery. KAS Enterprises, a dental distribution outlet to locate on new 13 east side.
Mar. 1987, Campbell Drug Store closing, Marion considered for mall, Pennzoil Products has open house in Bracy building on North 4th St.
Apr. 1987, Council approves purchase of aerial pumper for Fire Department, Marion Toyota holds ribbon cutting.
June 1987, Niemann Flooring opens with ribbon cutting. Sheehy’s Foodland holds ribbon cutting.
July 1987, Marion creates TIF district to entice potential mall project. Devils kitchen still debated.
Aug. 1987, County board opposes TIP district Butler retorts,” The last time Marion did anything to cause the County board to be enthused, Methuselah was wearing diapers. To which board Chairman Larry Woolard called Butler “an articulate clown.” Butler compared the county to a remora fish which is nearsighted and later commented that the county was “a barnacle on the body politic of Marion” and has no vision at all. Woolard later turned the remora fish label toward Butler stating, “I think he fits the role to a T, as you know a remora fish allows others to provide its needs.” Definition of surplus at question on Devils Kitchen water.
Oct 1987, Herrin offers City Lake #2 for sale to Marion. Agreement reached to purchase water from Herrin Lake and pump it into Marion Lake as precautionary measure. TIP district rezoned to accommodate Mitchells motel-restaurant plan. Signed are new Arby’s, Burger King, Capitol Group distribution and Shoney’s Inn. City to lay water lines to Herrin Lake. Street department barn for housing equipment proposed. City’s new water treatment plant completed this year. Rend Lake offers water for the fifth time and denied again.
Jan. 1988, Gov. Thompson approves application for assistance with flooding. Article on Herrin annexation which Butler described in 1984 that the city “woke up from a deep sleep and ran through the screen door.”
Feb 1988, Marion adds two new TIF districts, Vernell’s Interstate service behind the truck plaza, the other TIF is a 5 acre district created between Rt. 13 and Scotsboro Road, south of Maplewood Cemetery allowing E.N. Baker Chevrolet to expand its lots and also includes Stilley Real Estate. USDA Rep says there is a solution to flooding and a Crab Orchard watershed committee was formed immediately. Study should be completed by late summer for submission to Washington. The Soil Conservation Service had already created a computer model of the watershed which gave a rough estimate of cost and determined economic feasibility for flood control. Superior Flooring Co. to locate in Marion. Devil’s Kitchen pushed into background due to restrictions and cost, Sugar Creek now looked at. Herrin now backs down on selling their lake.
March 1988, Marion annexes 135 acre Pepsi Bottling plant. County opposes new TIF districts.
April 1988, City annexes western stretch of CO & E RR line and a machine shop, the annexation stretches from the city limits to the road in front of DIY Home Center on Ill Rt. 13.
May 1988, State to give control of old Rt 13 from Fair St. east to Dinah Lane back to Marion, Marion already has control of Court to Fair. Northeast Coal Co. applies for permit to strip site of old Northside No. 1 mine between Scotsboro & Cedar Grove area. It brought lots of protest.
June 1988, Marion pumping water from Herrin lake. City proposes new TIF district from Granite Street east to Harper Street and from Boulevard south to Jackson Street, another TIF covers Marion Pepsi Bottling plant. Marion imposes lawn watering ban to conserve water. Illinois Dept. of Commerce & Community affairs which gave Marion money for development requires city to form loan committee instead of Butler being the sole person, many flaws were pointed out in an audit. New TIF’s stalled by homeowners. US Sec. of Interior puts an end to the possible use of excess of Devils Kitchen water. Pres. Reagan makes stopover at the WC airport in the morning of July 14th. $24 million in appropriation set for next year. $5 million set aside for a new city lake. Freeman United Coal Mining Co. to locate headquarters in Airport Business Center. Williamson County Coalition (minorities) clashed with Butler through this period over the requirement for minority hiring.
Aug. 1988, City annexed properties in Moore Park.
Sept. 1988, City pondering two sites for city lake, both near Sugar Creek, one on the north side of Rt. 166 and one on the south side. City still trying to lure Superior Flooring co. Grant approved to help develop Robinson Drive for use by Superior Flooring. City approved for $500,000 loan from IDOT to create a spur for the CO&E to tie into Burlington Northern, a spur for the Burmingham Bolt Co. on Skyline Drive, and a spur form the CO&E to the Twin County Service Co. Money to be loaned to CO&E. Groundbreaking for Cracker Barrel to be Oct. 18th. Talk of large mall with anchor stores. In response to criticism over obtaining the new mall, Butler said,” Why, when Marion does something, are we labeled pirates?”
Nov. 1988, groundbreaking for Pepsi Cola administrative offices. Dillards and Sears will be anchor stores at the upcoming Illinois Central Mall. Expected to open in spring 1991.
Dec. 1988, GTE builds toll office at 1600 E. Boyton. A portion of the former Saluki National Golf Course to become a new industrial park with Skyline Land Trust. John Stivers of Muphysboro going around to all city councils to get Christian and Jewish symbols removed from public property.
Jan. 1989, Stivers still after seperation of religion and state. Legal challenge aimed at use of TIF to finance the new mall. Superior Flooring still putting ducks in row to build. South Lake Estates developed by Eugene Castellano south of Marion High School annexed into city, 15 acres.
Feb. 1989, Commitment by the Soil Conservation Service of the USDA to plan a watershed project is completing, after two years of work, involving intense effort by the Crab Orchard Creek Watershed Committee. They intend to finish first draft by July and have a final plan ready within a year. Cost now estimated at about $3 million. Plan to build school on property off Westminster with access road connecting S. Fourth to W. Main receives complaints. Legal issues with mall TIF tied it up. On the 28th hearings were set on the mall TIF issue.
Mar 1989, Mall TIF issue in news all month
April 1989, Cracker Barrel grand opening. Marion still looking for new lake sites, both Sugar Creek.
May 1989, IDOT approves $2.3 million for additional lanes on Ill. Rt. 13 from Fair St. in Marion 1.27 miles east to the existing four lane. $1.5 million for replacement of the bridge over Crab Orchard Creek at the south corporate limits of Marion. May 27th, Ervin Baker dies.
June 1989, Marion considers lake financing. Mall TIF disputes. Bridge on E. College replaced. Marion approves $46.1 million budget for coming year, possible lake construction, mall construction, Walkers Wholesale breaks ground for new building on Rendleman St. behind Kroger’s.
Aug 1989, Carterville school district joins mall TIF suit. Simmons family disputes city lake project. TIF plan for Pepsi is disputed as well. Traffic study for potential mall turned over to IDOT.
Sept. 1989, Mall TIF dispute continues, cost of new lake rises to $8 million, ground work on Mall to begin despite legal issues.
1989, Marion hosts Sesquicentennial celebration, county and city of Marion is 150 years old.
Oct. 1989, City joins enterprise zone set up at airport. Lake and mall issues near daily. USDA is expected to decide in March whether to fund $3.3 million for flood project. Anti-lake petition legitimacy challenged.
Nov. 1989, Ron’s One Stop by Arby’s opens, gas pumps have credit card readers, station has car wash. Review board amends mall TIF but problems remain. Review board of taxing bodies modifies mall TIF plan. Anti-lake petition rejected. Mall Tiff still hot as others join against it. Nov. 22nd, mall groundbreaking begins. Pharmor drug store included in mall businesses. City asked for dismissal of lake petition due to lack of legal signers.
Dec. 1989, Broeking family got $1.25 million for their property at the mall area. Lake petition ruled invalid. City issues $1.6 million in bonds to finance mall project.
May 1990, Flooding in nation and Marion hits 100 year mark again.
July 1990, final documents signed for $4 million dollar Crab orchard Watershed project (flood control).
1990 review, Target added to mall stores. Mall scheduled to open next summer, TIF issues continues. In Sept. Judge Haney declared that the mall property does not qualify because it’s not blighted, but upheld the validity of TIF 1 which surrounds the mall. City is appealing the ruling. City is planning a new TIF for a strip mall which will have Kmart and Kroger as its anchor store. In Sept, Walmart and Sam’s Club announced that they would build in Marion. City is waiting for permit from US Corp of Engineers on the lake issue. Two months before July’s flood control was approved, Marion was hit with another 100 year rain causing major flooding. In Nov. a new Lincoln school was approved and will be built on N. State & S. Gateway Drive.
Jan 1991, Census for 1990 shows 14,362 but city claims its closer to 15,000. Old City Cemetery vandalized. Farmer’s Insurance group broke ground in Simmons Business Park on Ill. Rt. 13.
Feb. 1991, Expansion of new 13 from Crab Orchard to Saline County line widening to 4 lanes stalled until 1995. Sierra Club joins fray against city lake project. Marion council split on off track betting facility. Public hearing set for lake project by Corp of Engineers. Mayoral debate with Ron Emery & Butler set for March 19. Council votes off track betting down.
Mar. 1991, Bond issued proposed to widen half way road for increased traffic. Marion Plaza sues over new TIF again. Mayoral candidate debate, Butler and Ron Emery on 19th.
Apr 1991, City has spent $1.25 million on lake project already. After recent public meeting Corp of Engineers says it will determine if environmental impact statement is required and final decision in 30 days. Cedar Lake proposed but distance would be an issue and cost. City pieces old Marion cemetery back together after vandals attacked it earlier in year. Marion Mitsubishi and Changing Seasons added to TIF 1. Butler indicted on attempts to fix a DUI, faces misconduct and conspiracy charges. Council approves appropriation of 46 mill for next year.
May 1991, Butler case assigned to Massac judge. Marion hospital to ban smoking. City applies for $1.6 million pipeline project to get new lake water into Marion. Larry Grove and Jim Parker retiring from school system.
June 1991, Red Lobster considering Marion. Finishing touches going on Illinois Centre Mall. James Garrison and Butler to stand trial Sept. 9th. Council works with IDOT for improvements to Halfway Road. Rebuilding the intersection of Halfway Rd & Ill. 13, Construct new lane on the south side of Ill. Rt. 13 for eastbound traffic between Walton Way & Halfway Rd. Walmart and Sam’s Club stores opened and Sam Walton came to both. Bud’s Warehouse Outlet planned for the old Walmart store in Westmore Plaza.
July 1991, Council approves $52.86 million budget. Special service area bonds for the mall, lake construction and hospital renovations. Still waiting for lake permit. Challenge to TIF involving Marion Pavillion dismissed. Kroger & Kmart are anchor stores. Call for dismissal on Butler Garrison case due to illegally obtained phone recordings in evidence.
Aug. 1991, Sears opens at mall with grand opening. Taped conversation considered admissible in Butler Garrison case. City is granted permit for lake by Us Corp of Engineers, but immediately the Sierra Club & Simmons family file a restraining order based on no environmental impact study done and potential harm to natural habitat. City to remove parking meters (bags over them temporarily) except for the parking lots of the First Methodist and First Christian churches to help downtown business out. Butler pleads not guilty to ticket fixing charge. Judge drops 3 of 5 counts in Butler case, still to be tried on official misconduct.
Sept 1991, Charges against Butler dropped in ticket fixing case. Absher Motors gets new building and service center.
Oct 2. 1991, Dillard’s holds grand opening. Pharmor store opens and Target to follow shortly. Taco Bell to open by Thanksgiving. Oct 2nd, University Mall hold grand opening. Karnes Chiropractic hold grand opening. Library requests $2 million bond issue to renovate the existing building and add 7,000 sq. ft. which the council delayed the decision on. John Bradley becomes Street Dept. supervisor, resigns as city commissioner. FHA grant of $50,000 to help defray cost of Halfway Road expansion. Litton Enterprise and Marion Glass already there.
Sept. 1991, Truck stop becomes BP.
Nov. 1991, On the 19th a microburst caused damage to Marion. Council considers plan for civic center to incorporate LaSusa Shoe Shop. Nov. 19th, microburst hits SW Marion, particularly Wilson Gym at high school heading NE causing over $30 million in damages, 45 homes leveled, 60-75 cars damaged from severe flooding. Over 7” in less than 24 hrs. 16 people treated at hospital.
Dec. 1991, Flood control hung up waiting for Soil Conservation Service and Corp of Engineers to sign off.
Jan 1992, City and IDOT agree to add turn lanes at intersection of Carbon and Main this summer.
Feb. 1992, Chicago Tribune article spotlights the region and Marion. Butler said the article shows that someone realized that we are the “hub of the universe” rather than the armpit. City offers $5,000 reward for vandals that damaged old Aikman Cemetery last year. Steak and Shake breaks ground. Kmart to build this year. Family Fun Center occupies old Bays Thriftway on N. Court.
April 1992, IDOT agrees to pay for moving seven bridges as part of flood control plan. The bridges are to be replaced as part of the $4 million Upper Crab Orchard Cree watershed relocation, funded in part by the federal gov. & Williamson County. The US Soil Conservation Service will pay the bulk of the $3.3 million and $687,000 of local costs to be split between Marion and the county. Bridges are on Mitchell, Liberty, Monroe and Union, Holland, Granite and another over West End Creek. City lays off workers in lieu of expenses incurred. Butler changes mind on Home Rule, now supports it. Construction bids let on Lincoln school. George Johnston retires.
May 1992, MCCC holds brick fundraiser “Star Walk” to extend Civic Center into LaSusa building. IDOT announces $36.5 milion project to develop 4 lane between Marion and Harrisburg which will bypass Crab Orchard. 40 acres N. of Morgan Ave annexed. Council applies for $320,000 grant to replace aging waterlines. Council gets flood control permit, now must buy land and send out notices. Spillertown contracts with Marion for sewer service. Hold put on lake, Marion must prepare an environmental impact statement. GNC store to be added to mall in early 1993. Kerasotes Theaters has bought land north of the mall. Toys R Us store to build in fall. Red Lobster opened.
Aug. 1992, City approves $37.6 million budget for year. Aug 22, Danny Cox article. Home rule will be on Nov. ballot.
Sept. 1992, Marion seeks volunteers to help refurbish Goddard Chapel.
Oct. 1992, City has $974,000 deficit.
Nov. 1992, Home rule did not pass. Marion plans for compliance with ADA. Marion wants to quadruple property tax. $320,000 grant from DCCA will help pay for replacement of pre-WWII water lines around Midway Court and between Mechanic & Buchanan. City needs tax increase to retain city operation. City passes tax increase.
Dec 1992, Flood control project to begin in spring, but the city has been widening ditches and installing new tiles under road to reduce flooding already. Renovation of LaSusa annex to Civic Center continues. City is in process of acquiring land for flood control project.
Jan 1993, Marion included in book called The 100 Best Small Towns in America. Council annexes 56 acres south of E. Main off the old Creal Road
Apr, 1993, New Kroger store to be built in Enterprise zone. Ryan’s Steak House being built in front of Sam’s Club. Liz Strobel to replace Winifred Wallin as City Clerk. AMAX to use equipment to help grade off 50 acre soccer field site at Illinois Central Mall. Claims of logging at Sugar Creek said to be polluting it.
May 1993, Sierra Club introduces letter from 1989 saying city authorized logging. National Guard armory by airport dedicated.
June 1993, Time capsule at Goddard Chapel opened. Bank of Marion opens branch if front of mall. Marion signed agreements with US Soil Conservation Service to hire a construction inspector for the flood control project, dirt work should begin in late August. Council considers purchase of old W.T. Grant building for new city hall, 18,000 sq. ft. and less than $300,000.
July 1993, Council approves $37.3 million appropriation for next year. City to move into new building in two months. Ground breaking for new Kroger store. Soccer fields set to be installed on 30 acre site east of town, will be ready by fall of 1994.
Sept. 1993, City annexes more than 1,100 acres at new lake site. Due to Marion expansion, assessed valuation has grown to nearly five times what it was in the early 1960’s from $23.7 million in 1964 to $111.2 million in 1992.
Oct. 1993, Marion to have its own Enhanced 911 (already had basic 911).
Nov. 1993, City signs contract for Enhanced 911. Flooding on the 14th caused evacuation of 25 residents around the Market & Boyton Street intersection by recent storms.
Dec, 1993, Illinois Centre 8 Movie Theater opens. Street names to be changed in anticipation of Enhanced 911 system.
Jan 1994, Old Creal Road bridge becomes problem to replace due to its historic value.
Apr. 1994, Mall TIF dispute deemed illegal, finally.
June 1994, City applies for grants to help comply with ADA laws
July 1994, City budget set at $33.9 million. Vote on home rule to be on November ballot again.
Aug 1994, Proposed dialysis center on 4th street riles citizens. Goodall Chapel board borrows $25,000 toward its renovation off the city. Marion Carnegie Library seeking expansion. “Anytime there has been an interaction between Carbondale and Marion, you wind up that you’d rather shake hands with a shark.” Over rumored merger of Marion Hospital and Memorial Hospital of Carbondale.
Sept. 1994, Kroger holds opening, calling it Future Mart, because of the facilities available inside.
Oct. 1994, First phase of Flood control, purchasing land south and west of Marion to widen upper Crab Orchard Creek almost complete. Engineering has begun on phase 2, widening the creek through the city from the area near S. Market to the Main and Court Street intersection. The final phase would be relocation of a business that spans the creek be and replacing the drainage system in the intersection.
Nov. 1994, Marion seeks grant to repair sewer line leading to the VA, Pepsi and Illinois Centre Mall of $308,000. Marion added its 6th TIF district to encompass Lowell’s Mini Mall in a project called Marion Crossing. Election approves 1mill bond issue to expand library. Home rule approved.
Dec. 1994, Ill. Department of Conservation told the Us Army Corp of Engineers that it should not allow Marion to build lake. Damming of creek would result in the loss of Brook Lamprey and Indiana Crawfish, two species listed as threatened or endangered in Illinois.
Jan 1995, Add 50 acres to W.C. Enterprise Zone set up along frontage road next to Steak N’ Shake. City may drain or fence reservoir after young boy falls in.
Feb. 1995, Copperbelly water snake survey set for spring to see if rare snake exists along Sugar Creek. Mercantile Bank of Mt. Vernon breaks ground at 701 N. Court St.
Mar. 1995, Marion Pepsi considering building bottle making plant here. Council approves plan to build road from Westminster to old 13 in order for potential bottling plant to connect. EPA calls Marion’s lake study inadequate. In recent candidate forum for upcoming election against David Hancock.” If someone walks like a duck, talks like a duck, I’m not going to call it a canary.”
April, 1995, Butler wins mayor again although has lost two bids for state legislator in 1972 when he was defeated in primary and 1976 during general election for the Illinois House. City guaranteed $2.8 million to complete flood control program. 2nd phase will widen and deepen West End Creek to a block north of Copeland Street. Third Phase will increase the capacity of the creek as it winds its way north past Main
Street. Second phase hinges upon the city’s acquisition of 63 parcels of land along the creek and the necessary permits. Gary Turnbull elected to council.
May 1995, Pepsi bottle making plant to start building within year, $15 million. Federal audit reveal $847,000 lost or missing in revolving loan fund. Bottling plant to build on Skyline Drive, BFI slotted to build in future.
Jun. 1995, Pepsi bottling plant breaks ground. Residents hire lawyer in protest. Indian bat removed as hurdle to obtain new lake. City considers options on library bond issue for expansion.
July 1995, Bobbie Connell (cemetery sextant) request felony conviction be removed from his record. US Fish and Wildlife give approval of lake project. Lake project approved by Corp of Engineers.
Aug. 1995, City approves $36.7 million budget. Latest figure of Sugar Creek reservoir estimated at $11.7 million instead of original $8 million. New Pepsi bottling plant still challenges by locals.
Sept. 1995, Bond issue of $1 million established as part of $2 million Carnegie Library expansion project.
Oct. 1995, Two Skyline Drive residents file appeal to block Pepsi bottle plant. City agreed to hand over East Lawn Memorial Garden to Pleasant Grove Memorial Park, Inc. It had been a burden to the city since they accepted it 20 years ago. Superfund cleanup at Crab Orchard Lake involves sweep of bombs (leftovers from WWII production and security).
Nov. 1995, Flood control delayed by land acquisition problems. Widening of West Main Street from 2 lane to 3 lane began.
Dec. 1995, Corp of Engineers now wants Marion to consider Rend Lake again. City considering ban on water use again as levels drop. City to take out $250,000 loan to complete flood control.
Jan 1996, City pays to have 10 households out of flood plain as part of project. Architectural plans for library expansion approved, construction could begin within six weeks. City attorney Garrison charged with DUI. Sales tax .25 % levied.
Feb. 1996, Corp of Engineers Report says that new lake would be better and cheaper for city than Rend Lake, but will hold public hearings and issue final statement later. Street improvements planned, widen intersection of Carbon and new 13, widen N. Carbon St., install permanent traffic signals on E. DeYoung, Improve N. Fair and N. State, pave the south end of Skyline drive, & upgrade two rail crossings.
Mar. 1996, Bob Evans Restaurant, Hampton Inn & Fairfield Inn slotted to build
April. 1996, Marion approves modified TIF to accommodate new development of restaurants & hotels.
May 10, 1996, Storms cause flooding in Marion and region again. Marion damage exceeds $1 million according To Butler. Federal disaster declared. County offices rent space in old City Hall. Refuge burns PCB’s in dioxin incinerator at lake causing concerns.
June 1996, New Marion medical center proposed at $50 million. Ideal Lawn and Tractor receives loan from city to move his business out of flood control area on S. Court St.
July 1996, Ron Joyner fired as city treasurer. Library project requests additional $1.5 million. Eight months of computer data related to treasurer missing in glitch? City approves $39.8 million budget for next year. State Police examining city records. Medical company want to buy and lease Marion Hospital. Marion receives clean water permit from Corp of Engineers. Sierra Club says, “We do consider the battle over.”
Aug. 1996, flood control in city to begin this fall. From College to Liberty the channel will be made 18 ft. wide at bottom. To the Marion sewage plant it will be 30 feet wide at bottom, to junction with Crab Orchard Creek it will be 40 ft. wide and 40 ft. deep. Plan to lease Marion Hospital for $14 million on a 5 year lease and ultimately build a $70 million hospital. When old building evacuated it will be returned to city.
Sept. 1996, lawsuit filed to stop city lake project. City signs $42 million lease purchase agreement for city hospital with Community Health Systems of Tenn. City approved $22,000 for old IC railroad right of way for use by lake project. Ron Joyner pleads guilty of embezzling $44,075 over 7 year period. He paid the money back and was sentenced to 4 years’ probation, fined $1,000 and ordered 100 hours of community service. Final land purchased for flood control project.
Sept. 1996, Widening of West Main Street from 2 lane to 3 lane completed.
Oct. 1996, City to receive $750,000 grant to offset flood control plan. Indian pottery dating back to 500 BC found at Sugar Creek site, archeological dig costing $150,000 required to comply. City ordinance to be prepared to give the city authority to demolish poor and abandoned structures in town. City works out plan with CHS to purchase / lease hospital for $16 million and build tertiary care building. Illinois Center Mall for sale ($5.8 million), sales receipts have been low. Mall sold to Illinois Center Group, a two partner LLC.
Nov. 1996, City buys 108 S. Holland for $12,000 to expand Senior Citizens Center parking. City resolves to take landowners to court for lake project.
Dec. 1996, APAC Telemarketing Firm to occupy the GTE building on Boyton St. E.T. Simonds awarded Phase 2 and 3 of flood control project. Judge upheld permit granting the city the right to build Sugar Creek. City council to air meetings on cable access channel.
Jan 1997, Joe Glisson threatens new lawsuit over environmental impact of proposed lake. As city contracts logging on lake site, new lawsuits threaten project. Steve Hale new city treasurer. Scandal over missing money in treasurer’s account. Chamber project highlights rail service in Marion.
Feb. 1997, Glisson files suit over endangered crawfish and Lampreys. Audit of city books determines a mess. City has Glisson case changed to federal court instead of state. City hires Safety Director, Jesse Pritchett for $40,000 per yr.
Mar 1997, federal judge ordered Glisson lawsuit heard at circuit court. March 10th, Civic Center burns. City vows to rebuild. March 3 to begin phase 2 of flood control project. Plans begin for new better civic center. Front removed and stored from old Civic Center building (Orpheum theater). Glisson’s lawsuit thrown out.
April 1997, Marion to buy land for new MCCC. The Boatright and Bainbridge buildings bought for $65,000 each.
May 1997, IDOT prepares to close Main and Court intersection for 3-4 weeks as part of Flood control project.
July 1997, City to press ahead with construction of new lake. Powless charged with misconduct related to missing $70,000 dollars of flood control money. Library construction underfunded by $638,000. Court of Appeals in Chicago invalidates federal permit for city to construct Lake. City has spent app. $2 million so far. Butler says he is willing to start all over again. New Marion budget is at $23.8 million due to hospital removal from rolls.
Aug 1997, Corp of Engineers decides not to challenge court ruling negating permit for lake. City buys 1108 and 1109 W. Cherry for flood control project.
Sept. 1997, Sales tax raised to 7 percent. Marion donates 44 acres north of Illinois Centre Mall for a planned convention center (WC Pavillion). Sept. 15th, Marion Carnegie Library expansion opens.
Oct. 1997, City pays $160,000 and is to swap a city building in turn for two buildings facing S. Market next to the square for use in new Civic Center. This means $290,000 spent in acquiring property and an est. of between $5 & $6.5 million for the proposed building. Council pays another $200,000 bill for consulting firm studying water sources.
Dec. 1997, Appleby’s to open March 1998. Bonds issued on $3 million to finance new Civic Center.
Feb. 1998, Final property along College Street needed for Civic Center purchased from E.L. “Buddy Buddy” Harris of Murphysboro clears way for construction.
Mar. 1998, City gets $260,000 grant to construct ditch at corner of Cherry & Bentley from DCCA. Demolition bids accepted for removal of buildings on square to clear way for Civic Center construction. Bids let for large water line to supply south and SE Marion improving service along Golf Course Rd. Autumn Lane and Spring lane.
Apr. 1998, Architects contracted, building Civic Center will take 2 years. Council votes to pave city streets, $260,000 dollars starting with streets around S. Carbon and south of Hendrickson. The owner of the last disputed Sugar Creek land, Simmons, sells property to city.
May 1998, Estimate on Civic Center now at $6 million. Council votes to replace historic bridge on old Creal Road. Civic Center cost raised to $7.7 million.
Jun 1998, City agreed to buy two new fire trucks and thermal imaging cameras. Glisson case that was thrown out will be reheard by appeal court. Marion Flood control project finished with $12 million price tag. Budget for next year at $20.3 million.
Aug. 1998, With funding held at $5 million on Civic Center, fundraisers are hired to make up amounts over that. Marion files an intent to appeal ruling by appellate court on lake.
Sept. 1998, Council considers police dog for police dept. Only 5 miles of new 4 lane Rt. 13 to Harrisburg remain, expected to be done by June. City supports new $40-$45 mill tertiary care hospital.
Oct. 1998, $1 million is expected from Civic Center fundraising. City makes option to buy 220 acres for $400,000 for new industrial park area. (Butler Industrial Park) S of new 13 east of 148. City to raze 22 structures northeast of Washington grade school as part of flood buyout program.
Nov. 1998, Circuit City to build 700,000 sq. ft. distribution center in new industrial park. Clearing houses in Washington school flood plain begins. Sewers videotaped and show big problems.
Dec. 1998, Marion’s appeal case going to the Supreme Court. City to replace pipe drawing water from Herrin Lake.
Jan. 1999, Marion receives grant to form canine unit for police. 2nd Dairy Queen coming to Marion.
Feb. 1999, new siren system tested. $15,000 raised in auction for Civic Center. Rep. Woolard has lamprey and crawfish removed from endangered list. City annexes 228 acre industrial park. Actress Marion Ross hired by Chamber to promote Marion. City votes to buy new 911 system.
Mar. 1999, City lets Safety director go due to his living in Harrisburg. Butler hires Bruce Carter as Safety Director. Powless law license suspended 2 years for misconduct.
Apr. 1999, with flood control in place, city hopes to revisit flood plain update. New industrial park named after Butler despite his objections.
May 1999, City votes to help Hands of Hope free clinic. Marion Ross visits city. Butler featured in May 30th “Treasures of Southern Illinois”, published in the Southern Illinoisan.
June 1999, Butler tries to get gas tax again to fund asphalting city streets which passes. City becomes part of Illinois Main Street downtown revitalization program.
Jul 1999, Work begins on Circuit City. Next year’s budget is $23,355,785.
Sept. 1999, City requests new flood plain maps. Animal control comes in focus when Edna Freeman found dead dog carcasses in a ditch at the old dog pound of Longstreet. City considering using Williamson County animal control.
Oct. 1999, Lack of rain has caused water use ban on anything non-essential (Butler says worse drought in 30 years.)
Nov. 1999, City to buy water off of Herrin as stop-gap measure, 5,400 feet of line will have to be installed. Marion Courts Motel which closed recently, opened in 1953 bought and is to be demolished. Charles Farris opened the motel. His grandson, Lynnan Marvel, sold the property and two adjacent lots two weeks ago. Herrin water now reaching Marion.
Dec. 1999, City has settled on a $7.4 million plan to refurbish and expand the city’s sewer plant while adding 19,000 feet of 16 inch force main to the system to accommodate growth on the west side of the city. Plans revealed for a new $4.7 million office building by Wisconsin Physicians Service on 11 acres at Pentecost road in the SE corner of the Butler Industrial Park. WPS will leave its building on Skyline Drive.
Jan 2000, Tap to Herrin water shut off with lots of rain filling city lake. Council annexes 9.4 acres west of I-57 and north of the Marion Hotel and Conference Center, area will be used by Fairmount homes Inc., sales of manufactured home. Halfway Rd. will be widened from 12 to 20 feet. $400,000 raised for Civic Center.
Mar 2000, City to asphalt several miles of streets south of DeYoung and east of the town square at cost of $300,000. Asphalting of all city streets will be done next year. First black officer, Angelo Hightower, hired to police department.
Apr 2000, City installing new water meter digitally scanned sensors. Banterra Bank groundbreaking at two branch offices. One on Skyline and E. DeYoung & N. Logan.
May 2000, Historic Preservation Committee formed as part of Illinois Main Street program. WPS holds groundbreaking.
June 2000, Circuit City center opens
July 2000, City adopts $22.9 million budget for 2000-2001.
Aug. 2000, Bids on civic center come in well over estimate, comm. Looking for things to cut or change. Pipeline tank farm planned for Creal area.
Sept 2000, highway construction at intersection of New Rt. 13 and halfway road now complete. New animal control center replaces one on N. Russell St. Council annexes 80 acres on Ill. Rt. 13 where Marion Hospital will build. New hospital plans unveiled, scheduled to open in 2002 at $40 million. Civic Center bid at $7.9 million delayed until more money can be raised.
Oct. 2000, City considers improvements to Bainbridge Trace road to new hospital.
Nov. 2000, City files petition to hold special election to vote on new civic center. Company wants to build landfill next to Kokapeli. City considers rezoning area to prevent it. Court denies special election of Civic Center, it will have to wait till April election. Corp of Engineers issued another report indicating that new lake is cities best option. New hospital has groundbreaking ceremony, to be called Heartland Regional Medical Center.
Dec. 2000, Banterra donates its old bank at 201 W. Main to the city. They acquired the form Bank of Egypt in 1985 and the building was built in 1955.
2000, Census put Marion population at 16,035.
April 2001, Voters approve civic center.
July 2001, Civic Center construction could start in September. Lake report from Corp of Engineers due in about a month, it will be the third permit, if so. Budget set for $36.21 million
Aug 2001, Construction of improving Bainbridge Trace to begin in couple of week which will be widened and resurfaced. New hospital is taking shape.
Oct. 2001, Diagraph Corp. to occupy plant and office at Butler Industrial Park.
Nov. 2001, $10 million sewer plant improvement planned, Aisin Manufacturing to build $20 millonl plant. Civic Center is several weeks into breaking soil & removing concrete
Dec. 2001, New upcoming sewer plant to cost app. $8.4 million. Roads to upcoming Aisin plant planned. They are to open July 2002.
Feb 2002, Home Depot coming to new Rt. 13, expected to open in December.
Mar 11, 2002 Civic Center Groundbreaking
May 2002, Marion passes new dog ordinances.
June 2002, Papa Murphy’s to open. Family Video to build at Court and Main.
Sept. 2002, City lake low again, city on water use restrictions.
Nov. 17, 2002 Heartland hospital holds dedication service.
Dec. 2002, Fire in City hall.
2002-2004, The Hill develops with Fairfield Inn Marriott hotel, followed by MidCountry Bank, 17th Street Bar & Grill, and Asian Bistro.
May 2003, $10.5 million sewer plant project and $7 million Civic center both under construction.
June 2003, Butler meets with new Carbondale mayor Brad Cole. Civic Center taking shape.
July 2003, Water conservation due to broken main. Council passes $32.68 million budget. Marion plans on buying sewer inspection camera at $45,000 with left over money from sewer plant project.
Aug. 2003, Warren Oil to take over Pennzoil building on 4th St. IEPA issues recommendation for permit to Marion for lake project.
Sept. 2003, APAC closing office on Boyton.
Nov. 2003, Blagojevich announced expansion plans for making Rt. 13 from Marion to Carterville six lanes. Marion to get CVS pharmacy at Court and Main Streets. Talk of Minor league ball team to come to area.
Dec. 2003, Liz Strobel still City clerk now.
2003, City puts old hospital up for sale (demolished in 2009).
Jan 2004, Councilman Jimmy Stewart passes away. Butler awarded Lifetime Achievement award by the Chamber.
Aug 2004, Williamson County Pavilion holds grand opening on 14th, Marion donated 44 acres and ran $12,000 sewer line. City calls for special census to correct what it feels is a short count due to additions to the city.
Nov. 2004, Aisin Light Metals holds grand opening in Marion. (Aluminum extrusion plant) making aluminum auto parts.
Dec. 2004, 23rd snowstorm, 16-18” blankets county.
Apr. 2005, Marion still trying to sell old hospital building.
May 2005, $54 million Rt. 13 expansion to 6 lanes yet to start, state has $2 billion deficit. Don Yost of Marion Affordable Housing will begin construction of Little Egypt Estates, a 42 unit apt. complex over 5 acres behind the Kroger store.
2005, Southern Illinois Miners choose Marion, Rent One Park.
Aug. 2006, Corp of Engineers throws roadblock to lake project indicating that the city has source of water in Rend Lake. City has been pursuing Sugar Creek Lake since 1989, purchase roughly 1,500 acres and spent nearly $3 million. Butler said the city will likely follow their recommendation. Council votes to allow gas exploration of the property they own at lake site.
2006, Menard’s building under construction
2007, Rent One Park opens
May 2, 2008, Robert “Dog” Connell dies.
May 8, 2009, 70 to 100 mph winds ravage the area for half an hour causing millions in damage, snapping trees like twigs. “derecho”, took several days to recover from the amount of power loss, tree and home damage, businesses were closed and look of the town was changed from lack of trees.
May/June 2009, Old hospital building is demolished
Aug. 2009, City will be buying Rend Lake water in a couple of months.
June 2010, $2.2 million EPA loan will be used to upgrade sewer facilities and provide service to Spring Garden and other subdivisions on septic systems. $297,000 loan for purchasing land needed for a connecting street to Seventh Street.
November 2011, city plans recreation center on hospital site.
May 2012, IDOT reveals $100 million plan for Southern Illinois. Energy deregulation allows customers to buy power from other sources. Council considers referendum on Nov 6, to take bids on choosing energy provider. Clearwave Communications got $44 million grant to provide backbone fiber optic connection lines.
Aug. 2012, Cornerstone church buys old Walmart building for $2.5 million
April 2013, Statue of Butler dedicated on Square.
2013, Williamson County Pavilion becomes Marion Pavilion
June 2013, City to purchase and remodel old armory building on DeYoung for new police station, estimate is $2 million.
Jun 11, 2013, Groundbreaking ceremony and construction begins on The Hub
Dec. 2013, New additional lanes from Rt. 37 in Marion to Greenbriar Rd in Carterville going well. I-57 exchange and Burlington Northern overpass in front of Mall on schedule. Interstate exchange rework slated to be done around July 2014. Flooding in Moore Park near Westernaire Drive needs addressed.
2014 Star Bond District issues, waterpark plans, land disputes. City remodels and occupies old national guard armory building on W. DeYoung St.
Jan 2014, Polar vortex traps northern US in minus temps for days on end, came to be known as the winter that wouldn’t go away. Wind chill temps in the minus 20’s.
2014, August, Dawn Tondini becomes Marion’s first female police chief.
October 2014, date set for the Hub to be done.
2015, Hub opens
2016, I-57 Interstate exchange work in Marion completed. First double diamond exchange in the state
(Source: Southern Illinoisan newspaper, compiled by Sam Lattuca)