Marion is at a crossroads

Marion City Council at-large | Kelvin Unemin

My name is Kelvin Unemin, and I am running for Marion City Council at-large because every neighborhood deserves a voice at the table, clear answers from City Hall, and practical solutions that work.

I currently serve as Procurement Coordinator for the City of West Des Moines, where I ensure department procurement budgets are managed responsibly, contracts are fair, and taxpayer dollars are spent with transparency. My work focuses on safeguarding public funds, identifying efficiencies, and making sure city operations deliver value. I'm on my second six-year contract with the Iowa Army National Guard as a Logistics Specialist, where I have learned to lead under pressure, solve problems, and deliver results for the people counting on me.

Here in Marion, I lead as president of the Pheasant Trail 7th Homeowners Association. That role has given me direct experience with the kinds of issues residents face every day: flooding and drainage, infrastructure repairs, and neighborhood governance. I know firsthand how policies on paper translate into real frustrations for residents, and I know how to fix them.

I hold a Bachelor's degree in economics and an MBA from St. Ambrose University. That academic foundation, combined with professional and military service, has shaped my focus on fairness, fiscal discipline, and accountability.

This is my first run for public office. I am not a career politician. I am stepping forward because I believe Marion is at a crossroads. We are growing quickly, but growth must be managed responsibly. Older neighborhoods cannot be left behind while new developments move ahead. Families and seniors deserve age-friendly services, safe and walkable neighborhoods, and reliable infrastructure. At the same time, we must attract high-paying jobs in technology, med-tech, and advanced manufacturing, while creating apprenticeships that connect students, veterans, and career switchers to real opportunities.

Taxpayers deserve responsible budgeting and complete transparency. I support publishing a plain-English "Where Your Taxes Go" report each year so every resident knows how their money is spent. Growth must pay its fair share, and the city must always prioritize essentials over extras.

I am running to bring fairness, accountability, and common-sense problem-solving to City Hall. With your support, we can make Marion stronger, fairer, and better connected—for every neighborhood.

Kelvin Unemin is a candidate for an at-large seat on the Marion City Council.