Kelly O’Neal seeks re-election to Marion Council

Kelly O’Neal seeks re-election to Marion Council

Councilman hopes to continue to fight for Marion residents

Marion City Councilman Kelly O’Neal has filed for re-election to his Ward 1, Position 1 seat on the Marion Council.

O’Neal, is a longtime member of the Marion community. His family is Marion through-andthrough.

“My wife Lisa and I are proud to live in Marion,” O’Neal said. “My girls attend Marion Junior High.

Michael Anne plays volleyball for the school, and Kellcy is one of the managers. Lisa sells real estate for Crye-Leike Realtors, is a Quorum Court Justice of the Peace for District 11, she is an ambassador for the Marion Chamber of Commerce, and she teaches Bible class at Marion First Baptist.” Other members of the family that can be seen volunteering around town are Rosalind O’Neal and Norman and Carolyn Vickers.

O’Neal said he has a vision of a better Marion and hopes to continue on the council to help see it through.

“I will continue to push for more hometown attractions,” said O’Neal. “Like, why not have a multi-use complex for horse shows and other sporting activities at the Sports Complex? The Esperanza Committee has already raised half the money. Or how about a splash pad for our children? These are just some of the attractions we could have in our town for families to enjoy.”

O’Neal works at Farrell-Calhoun as a plant engineer,

a position he has had

for 28 years, overseeing 35 stores in six states. He has not been afraid to make waves in council meetings.

“While on the council, I have asked questions,” said O’Neal. “I have voted ‘No’ on topics I felt were not in the best interest of Marion residents. I have done research, not just taking things at face value. At times, I have felt like the only watchdog for our city, and I have not missed one meeting in my four-year term.”

O’Neal outlined some of his goals moving Marion forward.

“Safety for our children is so important to me,” he said. “We need to be installing sidewalks for our children walking to and from school. I support our policemen and policewomen who protect our city and our firefighters who maintain a high fire safety rating. I will push to have more full-time officers and firefighters on staff. And we need a more open and transparent government. Public meetings need to be more publicized and better attended so our citizens’ voices can be heard.”

Being available to his constituents is a must for O’Neal. He said he is committed to giving residents a voice in how their city — their home — is run.

“I may work in downtown Memphis, but I can meet with you at just about any time to discuss your concerns, hear to your comments, or simply listen to your ideas. Just give me a call, or text me at (901) 351-6911. I would greatly appreciate your input and your support.”