The Marion Town Council gathered for its regular meeting on November 17, 2025, with several important updates, recognitions, and discussions about the town’s growth and ongoing projects. The meeting featured a variety of reports from council members, department heads, and town staff, as well as several motions that were approved unanimously.
Town Manager Billy Hamm requested to make an amendment to the agenda, adding two items of note: the Extra Mile Award and a discussion about town-held real estate. The council moved forward with these updates and other scheduled reports.
Councilman Larry Carter kicked off the meeting with a commendation for Ken Heath and the efforts of the Marion Downtown team. Carter offered praise for the successful 30th anniversary celebration for Marion Downtown, which featured guests George and Susie Allen. The event was lauded as a milestone celebration in the town’s development.
Hunter Atwell brought up a matter regarding parking on Main Street. Atwell shared concerns from local merchants about vehicles occupying parking spots for extended periods, preventing customers from easily accessing businesses. With new apartment developments in the area, parking has become a pressing issue. Atwell proposed a reduction in the parking limit from three hours to two hours to better accommodate shoppers. After brief discussion, Council members Gates and Jennings made a motion to refer the matter to the Street Committee for further consideration and the motion passed.
Susie Jennings took the opportunity to promote the upcoming Christmas events at the Lincoln Theater. She made flyers available to attendees and encouraged everyone to support the theater and its holiday programming, which is set to bring festive cheer to the community.
Dr. Gates, reporting on the utilities and infrastructure front, noted positive developments with the town’s water meters, which are now being radio-read. This system has helped detect several water leaks, allowing citizens and businesses to make repairs. He also updated the council on the town’s budget, indicating that revenues are within normal levels, and expenses are lower than expected. In light of last year’s challenges—including a shooting and major floods—Gates proposed bringing back the Christmas bonuses for town employees, which were increased in 2024. The motion passed, with bonuses set at $500 for full-time employees and $250 for part-time employees.
A highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the Extra Mile Award, which was nominated by Council member Debra Hayes and presented by Ken Heath. This recognition honors individuals who go above and beyond in their service to the town, and this month, Lance Turner was chosen for his tireless contributions to the community. The council acknowledged Turner’s efforts and commitment to Marion’s continued growth and success. Ken Heath read the following:
Lance Turner is a dynamic leader whose life is a powerful testament to faith, creatively, and service. With a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s degree in Education, Lance brings academic excellence and vision to everything he touches. Known for his intelligence, innovation, and creativity, Lance has devoted his life to educating minds, inspiring hearts, and building the Kingdom of God.
In addition to his contributions to education, lance is a successful entrepreneur. He is the proud owner of Leap of Faith Amusements, a company that provides fun and wholesome entertainment for churches, schools and community events. From bounce houses to popcorn machines and yard games, his business brings joy and excitement to all. But Lance’s work goes far beyond entertainment –It is a ministry. Every event he touches is an opportunity to plant seeds of joy, faith and love.
A gifted songwriter and musician, Lance has written many original songs with various styles from praise and worship anthems, chorale music to action songs. Lance has also written Vacation Bible School curriculums that blend biblical truth with engaging, creative lessons. His love for Jesus is the foundation of all he does, and his work in ministry has lead countless children and families to Christ. Through his innovative and Spirit-lead approach, many people have come to know God in a personal way.
Lance’s impact also extends into authorship. He is the author of the inspiring book “My Duet with God,” a reflective and faith-filled journey that captures the deep relationship he shares with the Lord. Despite all his accomplishments—educator, director, entrepreneur, musician, and author—Lance holds one truth above all: Loving and serving God is the most important calling on his life.
Lance, being dedicated to the touch, has spent countless hours picking up children throughout Smyth County, bringing to church and youth activities, led numerous summer camp and feeding programs, provided financial assistance to families and has stepped in as guardian to children helping parents who were in need.
The town of Marion is honored to recognize Lance Turner as a 2025 recipient of our Extra Mile Award.
Mayor Avery Cornett echoed Councilman Carter’s praise of the 30th anniversary celebration for Marion Downtown and reflected on the significance of the event. He thanked Ken Heath for his leadership and noted that the town’s continued success in the downtown area is due in large part to Heath’s work.
Cindy Staney, the town’s finance officer, provided a brief update on the VML (Virginia Municipal League) conference, noting that accounts and payments, such as the one for Line 141 (already paid), were in good order. A motion to approve the accounts as presented passed smoothly.
Chief Testerman gave an update on public safety, sharing that the mutual aid agreement and road salt distribution protocols would need to be passed soon, as they are renewed with each change in leadership. The motion to approve the mutual aid agreement passed. Testerman also reported that the town was successful in prosecuting the farmers market shooting incident from last year. Additionally, the police department is in the process of recruiting for three new positions, with one officer set to resign to join the forestry service.
Chief Keeling of the Marion Fire Department reported a busy month in October, with 257 calls for service. Notably, a fire at Walkers Creek caused by a fallen tree on a high-voltage power line was contained, thanks to coordinated efforts with the Forest Service. Keeling mentioned that the town is currently in a red flag fire status due to weather conditions, and the fire burned approximately 28 acres.
Ken Heath took a moment to reflect on the 30th anniversary of Marion Downtown, which was celebrated at the Francis Marion Hotel. Heath noted that, despite some challenges with a recent TV3 survey, the town is moving forward with plans to continue using it as a community bulletin board. He also mentioned that this might be one of the last events hosted at the Francis Marion Hotel, as the space is being remodeled to accommodate new hotel rooms. Mayor Cornett emphasized that the success of Marion Downtown is largely due to Heath’s leadership and vision over the past three decades. Cornett also noted As a gesture of appreciation, Heath was presented with a lapel pin from George Allen, marking the occasion.
Todd Long, the town’s zoning officer, updated the council on the recent switch to a new internet provider for the town hall, which he believes will improve connectivity for staff. The town is also planning a switch to Point Broadband for phone services, which will save the town money in the long run. Long also addressed upcoming Loitering Ordinance public hearing and sanitation ordinance, noting that the sanitation ordinance will once again be enforced. Residents will receive notifications for infractions, and the town is working to ensure that caretakers and those with special needs are not penalized for difficulties in complying with the ordinance where times are specified that may be problematic for these individuals.
Billy Hamm, the town manager, closed the meeting with updates on various infrastructure projects. Crews are still working on several key projects, including the work on East Main Street and renovation of Steele Park, both of which are nearing completion. Additionally, the town is addressing erosion issues along South Church Street by shoring up a creek bank. Hamm also noted that Phase 13-14 of the water project is on track, with a loan hearing scheduled for December 15, 2025, and a projected closing date of December 23.
The meeting concluded with a sense of progress and anticipation for the future of Marion. As the town continues to grow and develop, council members, town staff, and residents are working together to ensure that Marion remains a vibrant, thriving community. With ongoing projects in the works, a focus on safety, and a commitment to recognizing those who go the extra mile, the future looks bright for the town of Marion.
