Town hall meetings scheduled.

MARCELINE – The City of Marceline is asking residents to weigh in on a major infrastructure proposal that could shape the future of the community’s water and sewer systems for decades to come. On Nov. 4, 2025, citizens will vote on a $30 million Waterworks and Sewerage System Revenue Bond, a measure designed to fund long-term upgrades, improvements, and repairs to the city’s vital utility services.

City officials say the bond issue is a proactive step toward maintaining the city’s aging infrastructure, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, and keeping the city’s utilities in reliable working condition. The proposal, according to the city, will not raise local taxes and will be repaid solely through water and sewer user rates.

What the Bond Would Do

If approved, the bond would allow Marceline to issue up to $30,000,000 ($30 million) in combined waterworks and sewerage system revenue bonds for the purpose of extending, improving, and maintaining the existing system. The funds would cover expenses such as land acquisition, rights-of-way, operation costs, and maintenance for future improvements.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and city engineers have identified extensive upgrades needed in the city’s sewer treatment and collection system. The project would address issues like phosphorus and nitrogen removal and corrections to inflow and infiltration throughout the system—essential updates to meet state and federal standards.

City leaders note that while the bond amount is large, the investment reflects long-term planning. The improvements funded through this measure are expected to sustain Marceline’s system for the next 20 years.

No Tax Increase

According to information released by Jesse Wallis, Marceline City Manager, there is an emphasis that passing the bond would not result in a tax increase for residents. Instead, repayment would come only from the revenue generated by user fees within the water and sewer systems.

The proposal is intended to help maintain what already exists already and to keep costs as low as possible for users. With a yes vote, Marceline can take advantage of opportunities that reduce the financial burden while making sure to make the infrastructure ensure the community continue to be strong and compliant.”

The City’s plan is to use the approved bonds as leverage to pursue matching grants and subsidized low-interest, long-term loans — opportunities that are not available without voter-approved bonds

Why Bonds?

While cities can borrow using leases without a public vote, city officials say voter-approved bonds offer clear financial advantages.

First, passing a bond makes Marceline eligible for matching grants — funds that can significantly reduce the city’s overall costs. Any grant money received does not need to be repaid, a major incentive that helps maximize local resources.

Secondly, if all bonds in Marceline would qualify for subsidized interest rate loans, that can save the City millions of dollars in the long run. Currently, the city could lock in a 20-year interest rate as low as 2 percent, nearly 70 percent lower than the market average.

The bond vote will benefit the Marceline community directly and will make sure the bonds are the lowest possible cost to users while improving the overall quality of the utility system.

Town Hall Meetings Scheduled

To ensure transparency and allow residents to ask questions, the City of Marceline will host two public town hall meetings at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, October 21, and Thursday, October 30, at the Marceline R-V High School Auditorium. Attendees are encouraged to enter through the front doors.

During the meetings, city officials and engineers will outline the proposed project, discuss how the funds would be used, and explain the long-term benefits of the bond issue. Citizens will also have the opportunity to express concerns, ask detailed questions, and gain a clear understanding of what the measure means for the city’s future.

An informational brochure detailing the bond question, financial impacts, and long-term goals is available on the city’s official website at www.marcelinemo.us.

A Long-Term Investment in Marceline’s Future

According to the city’s release, approving the bond is about more than fixing pipes—it’s about securing the future. The bond would allow the city to make upgrades now while maintaining the flexibility to borrow responsibly for ongoing needs.

City officials say this approach ensures the water and sewer systems remain efficient and reliable, supporting both residential and commercial users while keeping costs manageable.The town’s most important asset it owns are the utilities. If residents and voters invest them now; it means greater things for years to come and less high repair costs down the road. This keeps the infrastructure solid for the next generation.

Voting and Registration Details

Marceline residents are strongly encouraged to attend the upcoming town halls and review the materials provided before heading to the polls. City leaders hope to see a strong voter turnout on Election Day.

For additional information or to access the full bond brochure, visit the City of Marceline’s website at www.marcelinemo.us or contact Marceline City Hall, 116 N. Main USA, in Marceline, Missouri 64658.

At a Glance

Election Day: Tues., Nov. 4, 2025

Ballot Issue: $30,000,000 Waterworks and Sewerage System Revenue Bond

Town Halls: Oct. 21 and Oct. 30 at 6 p.m., Marceline R-V High School Auditorium