Central Ohio Matters
Central Ohio Matters is a podcast where hosts Michelle Gatchell and Ryan Rivers discuss the issues shaping Central Ohio's future. Each episode features in-depth conversations with local leaders, visionaries, and changemakers driving progress in Central Ohio. These conversations provide insights into the challenges facing our communities and the solutions being developed to move them forward.
Central Ohio Matters covers government policies, healthcare challenges, housing and business developments, transportation solutions, education, and innovation. It is your guide to understanding and engaging with the pulse of Central Ohio.
You can listen to Central Ohio Matters on WVXG 95.1 FM (Marion and Morrow Counties) and WDLR 96.7 FM, 1270 AM (Delaware, Marion, and Union Counties).
Also, find it on your favorite podcast streaming sites.
Central Ohio Matters
The Strongest Town in North America: Marion Ohio's Remarkable Journey
How does a small Midwestern city rebound from decades of economic hardship to become North America's Strongest Town? The remarkable transformation of Marion, Ohio offers a masterclass in community resilience, citizen-led development, and the power of incremental progress.
Regional Planning Director Evelyn "Evie" Warr-Omnis shares the philosophy that propelled Marion past 49 other towns to claim this prestigious award: identify a need, listen to citizens, take small actions, and repeat. This humble approach acknowledges the resource limitations of smaller communities while emphasizing their greatest strength – determined citizens willing to roll up their sleeves.
• Marion's approach: see a need, take small actions, and repeat
• Citizen initiatives like the PB&J Truck and Exploratorium children's museum demonstrate grassroots problem-solving
• Historic buildings saved through community efforts now serve as downtown anchors
• Founders Park created from demolished buildings now functions as town square and event space
• Local businesses collaborate rather than compete, creating a downtown destination
• Innovative housing solutions include converting upper floors of downtown buildings and rehabilitating abandoned homes
• "Deed in escrow" program grows local developers by selling foreclosed properties that buyers must renovate
• Partnership with vocational school builds construction skills while creating new housing
• Despite limited resources, Marion demonstrates resilience:
Marion's journey demonstrates that transformation doesn't require massive resources – it requires listening to citizens, taking consistent small actions, and believing in your collective ability to overcome obstacles. To learn more about Marion's initiatives or explore opportunities, contact Regional Planning at 740-223-4143 or visit downtownmarion.com.