The Marion City Council approved Resolution No. 32,417 on June 5 to vacate the East‑West alley between Ninth and Tenth Streets and between Fourth and Fifth Avenues, a corridor described by staff as approximately 10 feet by 125 feet.

Planning staff told the council the alley has seen declining vehicular use since 2012 and is currently largely grass and occasionally used for parking. The two property owners on the north side have indicated they intend to purchase the adjacent 5‑foot shares; southern owners could purchase the full 10‑foot width if they choose. Staff said the city will maintain a permanent 10‑foot utility easement across the alley to preserve access to existing overhead and underground utilities.

Council also approved Resolution No. 32,418 to set a public hearing for June 19 on the sale of the alley. Staff emphasized that today’s vote vacates the city’s alley right-of-way only and is separate from any subsequent sale of land; sale terms and prices will be considered at the June 19 hearing.

Planning staff explained that Marion’s current policy sets sale price at 100% of land valuation (changed from a former 33% practice) and that letters were sent informing adjacent owners of pricing and process. Staff said if multiple adjacent owners wish to buy, the alley is split between them; if not, a single adjacent owner may buy the full alley.

Council approved the vacation and the hearing by voice votes; planning staff reported no written public comments received on the matter.