Marysville fountain springs back to life

City to hold celebration at Ellis Lake

Aside from the ducks, geese and being smack-dab in the middle of bustling Marysville, one of the draws of Ellis Lake is its fountain ... except that the fountain hasn’t been turned on in a few years.

That’s going to change.

The plan is to turn the fountain back on starting Friday night, and city officials are inviting community members to celebrate the occasion.

The “Ellis Lake Fountain Spring Kickoff” will be Friday between from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the gazebo area. There will be live entertainment and food vendors present for the community event.

It’s been a while since the fountain has been functional, due to funding constraints and maintenance issues. It’s estimated the last time it was on was in 2014, said Shannon Carroll, economic development specialist for Marysville.

“The fountain not only creates a beautiful view for our residents and visitors, it also helps with water filtration at the lake,” Carroll said. “The forecast (this week) is calling for nice spring weather, we hope you are able to come out and join us.”

The city plans on running the fountain on a limited schedule due to energy costs. Following Friday’s event, the city will turn the fountain on every Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 6-9 p.m., and every Saturday and Sunday between 6-10 p.m.

“The council budgeted funds to keep the fountain operational on a limited basis throughout the year,” Carroll said.

The fountain was first built in 1964. In the past, community members have raised funds to keep the fountain and its lights operational. In 2013, the volunteer group Help Ellis Lake Prosper received $3,600 in donations from 19 individuals to keep the fountain operating through the end of the year, according to Appealdemocrat archives.

The gazebo area can be accessed at the end of 12th Street on the west side of Ellis Lake.

For more information about the event, contact Marysville Community Development and Services at 749-3902.