Issues
Improve Public Transit
Marshalltown residents deserve a public transit system that works for everyone. With 41 percent of Marshalltown considered part of the struggling working class, it is important for local government to use every tool within its authority to reduce everyday challenges. City government has direct control over how public transit is planned, funded, and operated.
The Problem
Hours that do not match the needs of working families and shift workers
Routes that take too long and reduce the quality of the rider experience
Too few routes to serve residents efficiently
What City Council Should Do
Commission a transit study that provides the data needed to improve routes, hours, and service
Pursue state and federal funding to support necessary transit improvements
Address staffing shortages that are creating immediate challenges for the transit department
Why It Matters
Local economies thrive when reliable public transit connects people to jobs, shops, and services
Transportation barriers can deny people access to basic needs like groceries, healthcare, and employment
Ensuring everyone has a way to get around is not just good policy — it’s the right thing to do
Expand Housing Options
Marshalltown needs more housing choices so everyone from young adults to seniors can find a safe, affordable place to call home. Right now, rising rents, limited supply, and aging housing stock are squeezing too many residents out of our community.
The Problem
Housing costs are rising faster than wages
Too few affordable and mid-range homes are being built
Many older homes are in need of repair or modernization
What City Council Should Do
Encourage development of mixed-income housing, including duplexes, townhomes, and apartments
Revitalize aging housing through grants, partnerships, and code enforcement that helps — not hinders — owners
Update zoning to make it easier to build housing in underused areas, especially downtown and near transit
Why It Matters
A wider range of housing keeps Marshalltown competitive for attracting workers and families
Stable, affordable homes reduce homelessness and help people build wealth
Housing is the foundation for a healthy, thriving community
Support Our Downtown
Downtown Marshalltown has come a long way thanks to years of investment, planning, and hard work. There is no doubt the City Council’s strong commitment to reconstruction has made a real difference. But the job isn’t done yet. We must finish what we’ve started and make sure downtown continues to grow as a vibrant hub for business, culture, and community life.
The Problem
While progress is clear, some projects remain incomplete
A few storefronts and spaces still sit empty or underused
Continued investment is needed to keep downtown safe, accessible, and inviting
What City Council Should Do
Stay the course on the City’s downtown reconstruction agenda and see projects through to completion
Enhance walkability, lighting, and public spaces to encourage more visitors and events downtown
Promote mixed-use and residential development so more people can live, work, and shop downtown
Why It Matters
Downtown is Marshalltown’s front porch — it’s where our community comes together
Continued investment will attract new businesses, boost tourism, and strengthen our local economy
A strong downtown benefits every neighborhood, because a healthy city core makes the whole community stronger
