Marion Ward 1: Kim Etzel

I once heard that running for city council is the most stressful of all elections because the people scrutinizing you for worthiness are your friends, neighbors, parents of your kids' friends and people you see around town. City council service is a privilege, so I choose to deal with it because the good outweighs the bad.

I am passionate about our community and that is why I ran successfully for Marion City Council in 2011 to represent Ward 1. I ran for city council to try to keep things going in the right direction and that remains my goal for Marion.

As a mother of a Linn-Mar High School senior and lifetime Marion resident, it is important to me that our city gives everyone the opportunity to enjoy a high quality of life.

This term I want to focus my energy on:

1. Public trust - City leaders must connect with our citizens and involve them in important decision making.

2. Economic development - Friendly government and a business-friendly atmosphere is a key factor in attracting business.

3. Going from Good to Great - Keeping up with the city's growth.

I am energized by the changes that are taking place in Marion. I want to be a leader for positive change and keeping the momentum alive. I look forward to another term as a member of your city council.

' More information: ketzel@cityofmarion.org