About Merriam ~ City Government

Although Merriam is one of the oldest communities in the area, it was unincorporated during most of its life with governance being administered at the county level. However, as the population increased, so too did the need for a local form of government. On October 28, 1950, the Merriam area citizens petitioned the Governor to become an incorporated city of the third class with Carl R. Engel, Sr. serving as first mayor. On January 18, 1957, Merriam became a city of the second class.

Today, the City operates under a non-partisan Mayor/Council form of government with the addition of a City Administrator. The Mayor is elected on an at-large basis and serves a four-year term. The eight Council members are elected by ward (two representing each of four wards) and serve four year terms of office. An election for Council members is held every odd-numbered year with one representative from each of the four wards being chosen each election.

The City Administrator is appointed by the Mayor and City Council as the chief administrative officer of the City and is charged with the efficient and effective administration of the City.

To reach our elected officials, please click here.

For more information on city services, neighborhood associations, churches, etc. please click here.