Marshall City Council Report

The City Council met in regular session on June 8, 2026. Council members Michael Smitley, Logan Swalls, and Greg King were absent.

The meeting began with public comments with Jeff Wallace, member of the Park District Board, greeting the council with an update on trees that have been planted along Archer Ave. With thirteen planted, and several more remaining, Wallace thanked the council for their contribution and support.

Wallace also shared that with council member Vickie Wallace no longer sitting on the council, that he had hoped the vacancy would be filled by another female and voiced concerns that the appointment resulted in an all-male council. Wallace encouraged the Council to consider diversity when filling future vacancies.

Councilman Warren LeFever made a comment noting that there have been seasons of diversity where the Council has had several females at once on the council and explained the ebb and flow of member status.

Mayor Hasten also commented on the matter stating that he accepts responsibility as Mayor for appointing council members. He explained that candidates are carefully selected based on their willingness and availability to serve the community and the best candidate at the time happened to male. Hasten states he would gladly consider a female for future appointments who expresses interest and is able to fulfill the responsibilities of the office and serve the needs of the community.

In further business, the Council approved payment to VIPower for $50,835.29 for water wells equipment as well as $13,114.03 for substations and school circuit materials, also to VIPower.

Laura Pearce, Director of the Chamber of Commerce, celebrated the turnout for the town for the kickoff this year’s Farmer’s Market. Pearce noted that there were comments concerning the lack of produce at the first Market. She states it’s not quite season but produce vendors will be present very soon at upcoming Market days and encouraged the community to continue to come out and support local vendors.

Laura wanted to remind the community of the upcoming Jeep Jam at the Courthouse square June 20^th from 4pm-9pm as well as the Red, White & Blue Bash for celebrating America’s 250^th Fourth of July. Check the Chamber’s Facebook page for updates and details.

Marshall Chief of Police Brian Jaeger, thanked the Council for their support in providing new guns for the department. Jaeger stated the department has had extensive training with the new equipment and he is grateful for the contribution.

The Council paid bills totaling $262,062.39 and meeting was adjourned.