A proposed Marion operation affiliated with C-Arrow Stable may face zoning issues, Marion City Council learned Monday night.

A 2003 zoning map shows the property where the stable would locate as residential, but while older documents treat outlying parcels as agricultural, building inspector James Masters said.

Those areas should continue to be considered agricultural unless a formal change to residential zoning can be documented, city engineer Darin Neufeld said.

The business would begin with riding lessons and could expand to trail rides and tack sales, C-Arrow Stables founder Barry Cole and farm manager Corey O’Brien said.

The proposal could complement Marion’s tourism efforts but would requires legal guidance before action, Mayor Michael Powers said.

No decision was made Monday.

Rhino proposals

Council members also discussed mural ideas tied to the city’s rhino tourism project.

A mural planned for racquetball courts at East Park would feature dancing rhinos, economic development director Megan Jones said.

A second concept for a mural might involve Marion’s historic nicknames, including “Best Place I’ve Seen,” “Town Between Two lakes,” and “Stone City,” she said.

Liberty Park also was discussed, where an existing mural needs more than repainting because of structural issues, Jones said.

The proposed mural wall in Liberty Park faces south. Jones recommended using 4-by-8-foot metal panels instead of paint so faded sections could be replaced more easily.

She said locating the mural there could help draw visitors into the rhino project.

The park could be part of a rhino trail. Kiwanis Club already has voted to place a large rhino there, Powers said.

No action was taken.

Council approved purchase of a bullet-resistant vest after police chief Aaron Slater said a current vest will expire this year. The vest will cost about $1,500.

An ordinance updating refuse rates also was approved after its effective date was amended to June 2026, city administrator Brian Wells said.

Council members also moved forward with purchasing 2024 building code books for possible future adoption.

Department reports included:

• The police department obtained $8,500 in Taser equipment for about $400 through other agencies.
• Hot water has been restored in much of city hall.
• Budget discussions are expected to begin in May.