MARION, VA — The Marion Town Council met earlier this week for a packed meeting that included the presentation of honors, a spirited public comment session, and updates on community projects and ordinances.
The Council began by recognizing several individuals and groups for their service to the town:
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April Morgan was honored with a resolution, commemorating her 25 years of service to the Marion Police Department. She was presented with a retirement badge and an award in recognition of her dedication by Chief Clair and the Town Council.
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Police Chief John Clair received a resolution of appreciation for his seven years of leadership as Chief of Police. Chief Clair is stepping down to take a new position as Police Chief in Blacksburg, Virginia.
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A resolution was also read in honor of EMS Appreciation Week, recognizing the vital contributions of all emergency medical service personnel.
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Smyth County Commonwealth’s Attorney Phillip Blevins was in attendance and offered remarks in support of the resolutions and commended the town’s EMS workers and law enforcement for their service.
Several citizens took the floor during the public comment segment to voice their concerns:
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J.S. Staley raised two key issues. First, he described a recent incident involving a family member who was accosted on Main Street in what he described as a schizophrenic episode. He criticized the lack of a police report following the incident, noting it hampers efforts to track repeat offenders. Second, he expressed frustration about litter and disruption along the Middle Fork of the Holston River, urging the Council to take “positive action” and consider new zoning laws to address the persistent issues.
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Charles Hayden spoke about modular homes on South Church Street, pointing out that they lie in a flood zone and questioning the engineering oversight. He cited legal requirements for flood openings in foundations and expressed skepticism over what he saw as selective enforcement of local ordinances—especially relating to trash and litter issues.
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Roger Bowman addressed concerns about unruly behavior on Main Street, stating that complaints to the police have sometimes resulted in threats against the reporting party of arrest/charges. He emphasized the need for better handling of public disturbances and requested a more proactive response from law enforcement.
During the Council Report and Comment time, the following took place:
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Mayor Avery Cornett thanked the speakers for their comments and assured them the issues would be reviewed. During the meeting, he stepped in to maintain order after numerous exchanges which were out of order.
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Councilwoman Susie Jennings and Councilwoman Spencer both requested clarification on police procedures related to incident reporting and asked the Police Department to follow up with Mr. Staley. Councilwoman Jennings specifically requested that MPD follow up with Mr. Staley on the request of the police report pertaining to the incident.
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Councilman Larry Carter inquired whether building codes were met for the South Church Street modular homes, prompting a follow-up from Vice Mayor Jim Gates, who requested that zoning official Todd Long provide written documentation to Mr. Hayden.
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Town Attorney Mark Fenyk addressed concerns about the police report, explaining that due to HIPAA protections, certain details regarding individuals’ mental or physical conditions are legally restricted from public disclosure. He also cited FOIA exemptions that protect such information in his capacity as the FOIA officer for the town council. This was met with some out of order commentary by Mr. Staley “I don’t know where you’re going with this, Mark.”
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Councilman Carter provided updates from District 3, noting a tentative budget had been passed but that federal funding remains uncertain. New transit buses are on order and new board members have been appointed. “A budget is a living breathing thing” he said as he explained that the budget could change very quickly and without notice.
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Councilman May encouraged participation in the upcoming Caring For Our Community workdays. Flyers were made available at the meeting, and the Mayor reiterated the importance of Caring For Our Community efforts, which will take place June 7 and 14.
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Councilwoman Jennings praised the downtown flag displays, while Councilwoman Spencer requested enforcement of anti-camping ordinances at Riverbend Park, citing many complaints from residents.
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Mayor Cornett recapped his recent community engagements, including Teacher Appreciation events, EMS meetings, and appearances on WCYB promoting Memorial Day celebrations. He also highlighted visits from the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, which sought to understand Marion’s success.
Todd Long reported that Planning Commission meetings will now begin at 5:30 p.m., and the commission recommends continuing the town’s policy of allowing hens (up to six) but no roosters, while banning livestock within town limits.
This segment of the meeting concluded with a reminder about upcoming community events and a note of appreciation to the Wilderness Road Garden Club for maintaining the street planters.
This past Monday’s Marion Town Council meeting. The video can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?
