Marion’s ongoing water woes drew support from another Alabama city this week, as Irondale Mayor James D. Stewart Jr. visited Marion on Dec. 15 to deliver a $6,150 donation to help with the city’s water system problems.
Stewart presented the check to Mayor Dexter Hinton during a gathering at Marion City Hall, where officials from both cities met and posed for photos with the oversized check.
In a statement, the City of Irondale said the gift grew out of concern over the severe Thanksgiving water crisis that left many Marion residents without reliable running water for days, affecting homes, seniors, and essential services.
Stewart said he reached out to Irondale citizens and business leaders, who responded generously because they believe in “being a blessing to others,” especially in difficult times.
Irondale officials also announced plans to donate police vehicles to the Marion Police Department once Irondale adds new units to its own fleet. Marion Police Chief Nikisha Gailes, recently appointed as the city’s first Black female police chief, was singled out in the post as being especially excited about the news.
Mayor Hinton, writing on behalf of the City of Marion, thanked Irondale, its leaders, residents, and business community for their “powerful demonstration of compassion, regional unity, and servant leadership.” He said the financial gift and the promise of additional support show that community “knows no boundaries” and that when one city hurts, others can stand alongside it.
