MERRIAM HIGHLIGHTS Published for Merriam Residents & Businesses
WINTER 2013 | SPRING 2014
Advanced life support is just around the corner Have you ever had to call 911 for an ambulance? Were you surprised to see a Merriam police officer, a Merriam fire truck, and a Johnson County Med-Act ambulance respond to your residence?
respond to the rising percentage of medical times and enhanced service provided by calls handled by the fire department. highly trained personnel.
At the same time, the City of Overland Park was evaluating contractual agreements to provide fire services for the portion of their We are fortunate to live in an area where so city north of Johnson Drive. much help can arrive in only a few minutes. The result -- a fire service agreement between The Merriam Fire Department has offered Merriam and Overland Park that would Basic Life Support (BLS) for our community create a mutually beneficial partnership since 1947, and all of Merriam’s firefighters between the cities, and enhanced services are trained emergency medical technicians for our residents. (EMT). Last year, the department responded to over 1,200 calls for medical assistance. “Due to an aging demographic in our community, we have seen a steady increase in the number of medical calls we respond to each year,” says Merriam Fire Chief Bob Pape. In fact, according to Merriam Fire Chief Bob Pape, approximately 75% to 80% of calls for service in Merriam are medical in nature. “It’s changed the way we train firefighters and merited further consideration on how we respond to those calls,” says Pape. So earlier this year, the City of Merriam formed a task force to determine how we could better utilize our resources and
Instead of sending large expensive fire suppression equipment to a medical call, the ALS model sends a quick response vehicle (a Chevrolet Tahoe) that is smaller and more fuel efficient, capable of arriving on the scene more quickly and safer. Along with carrying all the necessary advanced life saving equipment, this vehicle will be staffed with a squad of two firefighters; an Overland Park firefighter who has additional certification as a paramedic, and a Merriam firefighter with the additional certification of an emergency medical technician (EMT).
“We are excited about the opportunity at hand and the possibility of offering our residents this service enhancement,” says City Administrator Phil Lammers. “The proposed ALS model also offers economic efficiencies Beginning January 1, 2014, Merriam and with faster response times, better trained Overland Park will join forces to provide Advanced Life Support (ALS) first response in personnel, and smaller responding vehicles that require less fuel and maintenance than the combined service area. ALS provides a paramedic level of service the large fire trucks currently deployed.” and allows for advanced medical protocols As part of this collaborative agreement, such as IV administration, EKG monitoring, Merriam will respond to all EMS and fire and cardiac drug administration. This model related calls in north Overland Park. In allows for greater efficiencies in response exchange, Overland Park has agreed to provide all the equipment and the vehicle to respond as an ALS squad. They have also agreed to provide all EMS, fire and special technical training to all our firefighters. As a result of this collaboration, we have both been able to provide an increased level of service to our citizens with a minimal impact to our budget. The two cities plan to evaluate the service model in 2014, and explore the possibility for further collaborative opportunities in the delivery of fire and medical services in the future. For more information, visit the City’s website, www.merriam.org.
CITY OF MERRIAM, KANSAS 9001 W 62nd STREET MERRIAM, KS 66202-2815
www.merriam.org | (913) 322-5500 | CityofMerriam@merriam.org
PRESORT STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 576 SHAWNEE MISSION, KS
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MERRIAM HIGHLIGHTS
A message from Mayor Sissom Greetings and holiday wishes to you all! We are wrapping up 2013 and I am proud to report that this has been a record setting year. Our businesses are reporting great success and our sales tax receipts are at levels that we have not seen in years. With the addition of new businesses such as Hendrick Toyota Merriam, Lexus Kansas City, Nissan Kansas City, and Infiniti of Kansas City, it looks like 2014 will be another busy and successful year. If you have driven in the vicinity of I-35 and Johnson Drive, there is no way you could miss the enormous structure being built there by IKEA. The project is still on schedule to be open fall of 2014 and the grand opening promises to be spectacular. Additionally, the city has witnessed a lot of interest in the undeveloped property around IKEA. The Timber Ridge Villas Development at
67th and Wedd has also been a busy place with homes being built and new Merriam residents moving in. I would not be surprised to see it completely built out in 2014. We also have a very interested developer for the site where West Antioch School was located. If that project is approved, it will be a nice addition to that area, which has been vacant for the past seven years. The city has enjoyed very decent weather this past summer and fall and we are prepared for whatever winter will throw our way. Please be sure to drive carefully on slick roads. There are plans in the works for road construction on the bridge over Turkey Creek at Johnson Drive. The city, in partnership with KDOT, plans to build a new deck on that bridge, which was built over 30 years ago.
In August, Merriam’s Governing Body approved the City’s 2014 budget which includes $28.7 million for operations, capital improvement projects and debt service.
Most of the property tax revenue associated with new construction is dedicated under tax increment agreements, so available revenues will rise only 0.40%.
The 2014 budget is approximately $5 million greater than 2013 due mostly to an aggressive schedule of street, bridge and stormwater improvements. Approximately $13 million will be invested in infrastructure projects for which the City has secured federal and local grant assistance of $4.7 million.
Retail Sales Tax Revenues – Merriam’s location along the highly visible I-35 corridor provides retailers with a large customer base.
Property Tax Valuations and Revenues – For the first time since 2008, Merriam’s overall property values will increase - up 3.5%. Continued decline in the value of residential homes is offset by new commercial construction resulting in the overall increase.
In conclusion, please let us know if we can do anything to improve city services. Merriam is a great place and let’s keep it that way. I hope to see many of you at the Merriam Marketplace for the annual Sundown with Santa and Mayors’ Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 7th. The festivities kick off at 5:30 PM this year. That event will be followed by the Downtown Merriam Partnership’s Annual Christmas Dinner, which is provided for our citizens by private donations. I wish that each and every Merriam Citizen and visitor have a safe and happy Holiday Season!
Johnson Drive will be closed at the bridge while these repairs are made. While I had hoped to keep at least one lane both ways open, the intersections and railroad tracks made that nearly impossible. Instead, the road will be closed and the project will be
Merriam’s 2014 budget at a glance
2014 Property Tax Mill Levy The Governing Body requested a levy of 27.522 mills, unchanged from last year. Merriam will continue to provide high-quality services to its residents for approximately the same mill levy as in 2009. City property taxes on a $150,000 home will cost the homeowner $474.75 per year. The final mill levy will be set by the county this fall.
done in a shorter time frame. Luckily there are decent alternative routes for our residents who need to get back and forth.
Three new auto dealerships have opened within the last year and the IKEA home furnishing store is scheduled to open in fall 2014. The 1% city sales tax is Merriam’s largest single source of revenue with 2014 collections estimated at $6.4 million. Additionally, the City will collect $1.4 million from the ¼-percent city sales tax dedicated to street and stormwater improvements. For more details on the City’s 2014 budget, visit www.merriam.org/finance.
Where do my tax dollars go?
$0.32 - Police & Fire Protection
$0.19 - Admin, Overhead & Net Reserves
$0.16 - Capital Improvements
$0.11 - Street & Park Maintenance $0.09 - Debt Services
$0.03 - Community Development $0.03 - Equipment Replacement $0.01 - Municipal Court
$0.06 - Parks & Rec Programs
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Kick off the holidays in downtown Merriam The City of Merriam invites you to make plans for an evening of holiday cheer and festivities on Saturday, December 7th in downtown Merriam.
B. French Community Center (5701 Merriam Drive); serving will begin at 7:00 PM. Musical entertainment will be provided by local musicians, and there will be a visit by Santa.
At 5:30 PM we will begin the evening with Sundown with Santa at the Merriam Marketplace (5740 Merriam Drive).
Seating is limited for this event and is specified for Merriam residents only. A limited number of reserved seat dinner tickets are available at the Irene B. French Community Center.
At 6:00 PM, we’ll officially kick off the holiday season with the lighting of the Mayors’ Christmas Tree, followed by a visit from Santa. Bring the entire family for this festive holiday event. Cold weather won’t cancel these events, just add to the atmosphere. We will also enjoy holiday music performed by area singers with, hot chocolate and a warming fire to make the
night complete. Immediately following the tree lighting, Merriam residents are invited to a buffet dinner, hosted by members of the Downtown Merriam Partnership and area businesses. Seating will begin at 6:30 PM at the Irene
The tickets are free with a can donation or $1 donation per ticket (Limit 4). All money and can goods will be delivered to the NE Johnson County Multi-Service Center Food Bank in Lenexa. For more information, call 913-322-5550 or visit www.merriam.org/park.
Help give hope this holiday season The Visitors Bureau invites you to join the “Merriam Holiday Helpers” campaign to support 3,400+ families through the Johnson County Christmas Bureau’s Holiday Shop program. It’s simple and affordable to help others this holiday season, and Merriam’s community giving has never wavered -- please join us in continuing that good will.
Christmas Bureau Wish List Items Wish List: Toy Gifts (ages newborn – 10)
• Toddler toys (ages 6-36 mos.) • Building sets (ages 8+) • Educational toys (science kits, arts & crafts) • Radio controlled cars & helicopters • Popular theme toys • New and gently used coats/jackets
Giving is easy as 1-2-3... 1. Donate a new, unwrapped toy or teen gift from the JCCB wish list and deliver to City Hall (9001 W. 62nd Street) or the Irene B French Community Center (5701 Merriam Drive) by Thursday, December 5, 2013. 2. You’ll be provided an entry form to the Visitors Bureau holiday gift basket drawing the week of December 9th. 3. Gifts will be delivered to the Christmas Bureau just in time for this year’s Holiday Shop
Wish List: Teen Gifts (ages 11 – 18)
• Sports equipment (Official size basketballs, footballs, soccer balls, etc.)
• Sleeping bags, twin comforters • Small electronics • Beauty items/cosmetics • New and gently used coats/jackets
“For it is in giving that we receive.” ~ Francis Assisi
Thanks you for your holiday spirit and kind hearts! For questions, contact the Merriam Visitors Bureau at 913-403-8999.
Remember, donations must be delivered by December 5th.
City office closures and holiday observations All City offices including City Hall, planning and community development, Merriam Municipal Court, public works, the Irene B. French Community Center, and the administrative offices at Merriam Police Department will be closed in observance of the following Cityrecognized holidays: • •
Thursday, November 28, 2013 Friday, November, 29, 2013
• • •
Wednesday, December 25, 2013 Wednesday, January 1, 2014 Monday, January 20, 2014
For non-emergency dispatch or to speak with an officer outside of normal office hours, please call 913.782.0720. All closures and cancellations can be found on the City’s website, www.merriam.org.
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MERRIAM HIGHLIGHTS
Merriam’s snow removal program necessary to assemble crews and begin work. Plowing the main streets and emergency routes begins as soon as there is a plowable depth on the street surfaces and traffic conditions permit.
When winter weather strikes, the Public Works Department is put on alert. Your safety is our vital concern. Snowplowing helps to clear main arteries and residential streets to provide safe passage throughout the city. During normal work hours, salting begins as soon as freezing precipitation occurs. At night and on weekends, one hour is
Once plowing begins, the routes will be plowed continuously until the snowfall lets up and there isn’t enough snow left on the pavement to make plowing effective. The main thoroughfare street plowing starts when snow depth reaches two inches. It takes about an hour to salt, and two hours to plow each cycle. Our goal is to clear the snow down to bare pavement, curb to curb.
Residential streets are treated after the main thoroughfare streets are in good condition. It takes roughly three hours to sand and four hours to plow these streets each cycle. Some locations on certain residential streets are known to be dangerous when it snows. A one-ton truck equipped with a small salt spreader is available to handle these. Such locations (hills, intersections, schools, hospitals, and bridges) are salted while working on the main thoroughfares. Other locations can be called into our Public Works office at 322-5570. To clear all streets adequately, the City requests that residents
not park on cul-de-sacs and dead end streets. If a vehicle is parked in hard to reach areas, the plowing will not be done in that area. We not only encourage citizens to avoid parking their vehicles on the streets, but city ordinances prohibit vehicles from parking on the street when a snowfall exceeds two inches in depth. Our staff takes pride in providing the best snow removal of any of the surrounding cities. We want to continue to maintain the reputation we’ve achieved. For additional information about the City’s snow removal program, call the Merriam Public Works Department at 322-5570.
Fall and winter energy-saving tips As the cold weather firmly takes hold in most parts of the country, you might notice a steep spike in your utility bills as your heating system works to keep your house warm. If you’re trying to keep your heating bill in check, there are some assistance programs and DIY-tips that might help. Check your insulation: In a typical home, about 10 to 20 percent of the fuel bill is the result of unintended air infiltration. Even in a well-insulated home, energy may be wasted through air moving in and out or infiltrating through the home’s building shell or structure. Air leaks around doors and windows, attic hatches, window air conditioners, and through cracks and holes. Make sure your attic has a sufficient amount of insulation to ensure it stays at least five to 10 degrees warmer than the outside air, otherwise too much heat escapes. Not only will this cause your heat bills to be higher, but it can also cause frozen water to melt and refreeze which can result in a collapsed roof. Inspect the weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows to make sure it hasn’t cracked or come loose, allowing air to leak, and replace it if needed. This can also help reduce infiltration by insects, dust and moisture and noise. Or, consider replacing your windows or doors with new ENERGY STARqualified windows or doors, which can save you about 7 to 15 percent on your energy bills.
Maintain your pipes: Wrap your pipes with heating tape every winter and insulate unfinished rooms such as garages or sunrooms if they contain exposed pipes. Check pipes for cracks and leaks and have any damage repaired immediately to prevent costlier repairs later. Keep your house warm—at least 65 degrees. Don’t neglect your basement and crawl spaces, and insulate pipes in those spaces to protect against freezing. It’s also important to know the location of your pipes and how to shut the water off. If your pipes freeze, the quicker you shut off the water, the better chance you have of preventing pipe bursts and major water damage in your home. Turn down your water heater: While many conventional water heaters are set to 140 degrees by installers, most households don’t need that much steam, and end up paying for it -- in dollars and the occasional scalding burn. Lowering the temperature to 120 degrees (or lower) would reduce your water heating costs by 6% to 10%. Inspect your heating systems: Be sure to have your heating system serviced every year, and maintain your furnace, fireplace, boiler, water heater, space heater and wood-burning stove. Change your heating and air conditioning filters regularly, and while you’re at it, check the batteries of your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
Seal those ducts: Studies show 10% to 30% of heated (or cooled) air in an average system escapes from ducts. Therefore, it could pay to hire a professional technician to come out and test your duct system, and fix any problems. Properly sealing ducts can save the average home up to $140 annually, according to the American Solar Energy Society. Plus, you’ll have better protection against mold and dust. Turn down the thermostat: Most guesswork can be taken out of setting your temperatures, but opting for a programmable thermostat, which can be preset to lower temperatures during the day and raise them again about an hour before your family returns home. Turn your thermostat down by about 10-15 degrees during the day, and avoid cranking the thermostat all the way to the “high” setting when you get home. Turning the thermostat all the way up won’t heat your rooms any faster, and your system will be working on overload trying to reach a high temperature.
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Don’t let a candle snuff out your life -- snuff it out instead A fire prevention message from Chief Bob Pape
For years, I have written these articles from the perspective of an educator. Citing facts with little personal connection, other than responding to a fire that was caused by one. Unfortunately, this article means a little more to me this year. My nephew recently received treatment from the KU Burn Center. He had sustained 2nd and 3rd degree burns to his hands from trying to extinguish a house fire that was started by a candle. Like many others, he had left a candle burning in his bedroom and fell asleep. When he awoke, the bed, dresser and carpeting were all on fire. The room and the whole upstairs had filled with smoke. He was able to get his young daughter out before she sustained any smoke inhalation. He and his family are lucky they survived. So as you read the following facts and figures, please take the time to recognize that it could be you or your family experiencing the above
event. Fires can happen to any one of us. From 2006 to 2010, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 11,640 home structure fires that were started by candles. These fires caused 126 deaths, 953 injuries and $438 million in direct property damage. • On average, 32 home candle fires were reported per day. • During the five-year period of 2006-2010, roughly one-third (35%) of home candle fires started in bedrooms. • Falling asleep was a factor in 11% percent of the home candle fires and 43% of the associated deaths. • More than half of home candle fires occurred when some form of combustible material was left or came too close to the candle. • In December, 11% of home candle fires began with decorations compared to 4% the rest of the year.
Follow these simple safety tips to reduce the risk of a candle fire... • Keep candles, lighters and matches away from children. • Never leave a candle burning without an adult present, and always extinguish candles before leaving a room for any reason. • Keep combustible materials (i.e. curtains, mattresses, blankets, clothes, stuffed animals, etc.) away from lit candles. • Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep. Don’t let the beauty and ambience of a candle lull you into a false sense of safety. Letting your guard down may lead to a tragedy.
Holiday shopping tips from the Merriam P.D.
The Christmas Shopping season is just around the corner. We all know that part of the joy of the holiday season is shopping at area businesses to find that perfect gift for your loved ones. Unfortunately, it is also the time of year that criminals are going to try to target you.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind as you shop this holiday season: • Don’t leave packages, especially expensive items, out in plain view in your vehicles. Place them in your trunk along with other valuables you leave in the car. • Always lock your car, and make sure your windows are closed; don’t make it easy. • Leave the store with your keys in hand. You are vulnerable while at your car door fumbling through your purse or pockets looking for your key. • Never leave your purse unattended. Keep your purse closed and your wallet in your pocket so you can feel it. Pick pockets are prevalent in crowded areas.
• When at the check outs, have your phone and other valuables put away. Always secure your credit cards or change before grabbing your merchandise. This will prevent you from leaving your valuables behind. • Park in well lighted areas. Look around for people watching you before leaving your car and returning to your car. • Call the police if you see suspicious activity, including someone driving slowly around the neighborhood, someone at a neighbor’s home when they are not home, etc. For additional ways you can protect your family and stay safe this holiday season, contact the Merriam Police Department at 322-5560 or visit www.merriam.org/MPD.
Christmas tree disposal schedule The City of Merriam will conduct its annual tree pick-up to assist citizens and businesses in the disposal of holiday trees. There will be a one-time pickup in your area as scheduled below. Trees are to be placed curb side by 7:00 AM on the scheduled day of pickup. • Monday, January 6th - North of 75th St. and south of 67th;
east of Switzer and west of Antioch. • Tuesday, January 7th - North of 67th and south of Johnson Dr.; east of Switzer and west of Antioch. • Wednesday, January 8th North of 67th and south of 54th Terr.; east of Antioch and west of Lowell.
• Thursday, January 9th - North of Johnson Dr. and south of 53rd; east of Switzer and west of Antioch. • Friday, January 10th - North of 53rd and south of 47th; east of Switzer and west of Antioch. Should snowfall occur, the alternative dates for the pickup will be January 13th - 17th.
If you have questions or need assistance, please call the Public Works Department at 322-5570.
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MERRIAM HIGHLIGHTS
Emerald Ash Borer confirmed in Johnson County The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) has confirmed that a destructive beetle called the emerald ash borer (EAB) has been found in Johnson County. The invasive, wood-boring pest can infest and kill native ash trees, including saplings to fully mature trees. The news prompted the KDA to implement an emergency intrastate quarantine for Johnson County, similar to a permanent quarantine in place for Wyandotte County, where EAB was confirmed in August 2012. The quarantine prohibits movement of regulated items from the quarantined area, including: the emerald ash borer in any living stage of development; firewood of all hardwood; nursery stock and green lumber of ash trees; and other material of living, dead, cut or fallen ash trees. Wyandotte and Johnson counties are the only
two Kansas counties where EAB has been found. There are several things property owners can do to help in the detection and spread of the pest, which include: • EAB can be transported long distances in firewood. When you camp, leave your wood at home. Buy only local firewood, and burn it before you leave. Once transported into new areas, EAB can become established and kill local trees. • When planting new trees, avoid planting ash trees. • EAB only attacks ash trees, so it’s important to determine if your trees are ash trees. • If you have an ash tree, assess its health. Look for sparse leaves or branches dying in the upper part of the tree, vertical splits in
the bark, new sprouts on the roots or lower trunk or branches, increased woodpecker activity, winding s-shaped tunnels under the bark or light-colored larvae just under the bark. EAB makes D-shaped holes (not round or oval). Two or more of these symptoms may indicate a problem. If you suspect emerald ash borer on your property, contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture at 785-862-2180 or e-mail your name, address, phone number and pictures of the suspect tree to ppwc@kda.ks.gov. For additional information about the emerald ash borer visit, www.emeraldashborer.info.
Electronic Ticketing has arrived in Merriam! In 2013, the Merriam Police Department implemented an electronic ticketing system. This program is designed to streamline the paper handling of traffic citations from the officer, to the Police Department front office, to Municipal Court.
entered into two separate record systems. Now, the officer swipes the violators drivers license and this information is transferred to the electronic citation. The officer enters the violation and prints out a citation for the driver. When the officer is finished with his shift, the citation information is downloaded into a database that is shared by both the police department and court.
The old system involved the officer hand writing the citation, which included multiple copies, a supervisor reviewing these copies, and then the police front office personnel This new system is saving money because the entering the information into the department process is much more efficient, allowing city records management system (RMS). a copy of the citation in a file for the City employees more time for other job related duties. The citations would then be transferred to Prosecutor. Municipal Court where they would then enter Numerous people physically handled each the information into their RMS and place ticket that was issued and the information was
Police department offers Business Police Academy New in 2014, the Merriam Police Department will be offering a Business Police Academy for community business owners and their management staff.
There will be approximately four sessions offered during the noon-hour, providing our business leaders with great information and a complimentary lunch!
This new police academy for the public will be modeled after our very successful Citizen’s Police Academy.
Our first class will focus on businesses associated with car sales/service. This group encompasses many businesses in Merriam and have historically been targets of various criminal activities.
The class sessions will have general information about our department operations, crime prevention tips, and how we can better collaborate with our business partners to reduce crime and make Merriam a better place to live and work.
The start date for the academy has not been set but more information will be forwarded to our business partners in January 2014. If you are a Merriam business owner and would like to participate, please call 322-5560.
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WINTER 2013 | SPRING 2014
Capital Improvement Updates
Merriam’s capital improvement program provides infrastructure improvements throughout the city. Here is an update on the projects currently underway in our CIP offices: Johnson Drive Bridge Project This project area includes the Johnson Drive Bridge over Turkey Creek between West Campbell Lane on the west and Merriam Drive
on the east. The purpose of this project is to replace a structurally deficient bridge and to improve safety for vehicular, transit, bicycle and pedestrian traffic. Plans have been approved by KDOT, and construction of the new Johnson Drive bridge is expected to begin in January 2014. Once construction begins, the bridge will be completely closed to traffic for the duration of the project (approximately six months contingent on weather). Alternate routes and detours will be posted and available on the city’s website. 75th Street Between East Frontage Road & Switzer Road - This is a joint project with the City of
Overland Park and the City of Shawnee, made possible through Johnson County’s Assistance Road System (CARS) funding. The general scope of work includes major pavement reconstruction and bridge deck rehabilitation. Motorists can expect single lane closures along 75th Street during construction. Residential Street Group IV & 55th Street Drainage Improvement Engineering design is in progress for this project, which includes: Carter, Grant, 54th Street, Hayes, Garner Lane, 55th Terrace and 56th Street. Public meetings took place this fall, with positive feedback from property owners on the
improved drainage, sidewalks and decorative streetlights that will accompany this project. For more information on the status of these and other capital improvement projects taking place in the City of Merriam, visit the city’s website, www.merriam.org, or call 913.322.5522. You can also receive status notification of future closures directly to your inbox by subscribing to the city’s e-mail newsletter. Simply select “e-Merriam News & Updates” under the “Newsroom” link on the city’s homepage and complete the form to subscribe.
City offers franchise fee rebate program The City of Merriam will once again, be established by HUD, the opportunity to apply accepting applications for the franchise fee for a refund of the franchise fees paid on electricity, gas and telephone bills during 2013. rebate program.
along with proof of income for all household members. For proof of income, residents can provide their 2013 W-2 or income tax forms, or social security papers as well as all 1099’s, Interest, Pensions, Annuities, and Dividend Statements. Applications will be accepted This program provides Merriam families, Applications must be accompanied by all February 1, 2014 through May 1, 2014. whose income falls within certain limits 2013 gas, electric and telephone invoices, This franchise fee rebate program is a cityfunded project approved by Mayor Sissom and the Merriam City Council. This year will mark the 32nd year that this program has been offered to Merriam residents.
Starting February 1, 2014, those wishing to participate should contact the Community Development Department at 913-322-5520 between 8:00 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday, to request an application form.
Upcoming events and recreation programs Mark your calendar! You won’t want to miss these fun and familyfriendly events and programs offered by the Merriam Parks and Recreation Department: New Years’ Preview: Join us December 26th, December 30th and January 2nd for a preview of Merriam’s zumba, bootcamp and turbo kick classes before you make that New Year’s Resolution. Classes are offered at the Irene B. French Community Center (5701 Merriam Drive). Register in advance for only $5 per class, or a drop-in rate of $7 per class. Call 913-322-5550 for information.
drawing for passes into the “College Basketball Experience”. 913-322-5550 for more information or to register for this event.
Call
Brunch with the Bunny: Saturday, April 12, 10:00 - 11:30 AM; ages 2-9; $6 per person -- Here comes Peter Cottontail hopping down Merriam Drive! Bring the family for an “egg-citing” good time. We’ll have egg painting, Easter crafts, the bunny hop, and brunch with the bunny. Don’t forget your basket for a little egg hunting fun. For more information, call 913-322-5550.
Dad & Daughter Princess Ball: Saturday, February 8, 6:00 - 9:00 PM; $45 per couple -- Spend a magical evening with your daughter, granddaughter or niece and enjoy one of the most anticipated events of the year. This enchanting evening of music, dancing, games, contests and FREE limo rides should not be missed. Meal and keepsake photo provided. For more information or to register call 913-322-5550.
Kids Run the Nation: Tuesday and Thursdays, March 4 to May 5; $30 fee -- Participants will walk, jog and run their way to fun as we train for the ever popular “Turkey Creek Festival 5K”. It’s not about being the fastest kiddo on the course. Along with the fun we will include bits of education on healthy eating, the importance of staying active and getting ready for the Festival 5K. Call 913-322-5550 for more information or to register.
Mom & Son March Madness: Saturday, March 8, 6:00 - 8:00 PM; $25 per couple -- March is known as the month of madness. Bring mom out for a night of bizarre basketball games and contests -- and a prize
Information about Merriam’s upcoming programs and special events can be found in the attached Parks Brochure, or on our website, www.merriam.org/park.
MERRIAM HIGHLIGHTS - WINTER 2013 | SPRING 2014
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Don’t forget to license your cats & dogs Being a pet owner requires all sorts of responsibility. One that is often overlooked is registering your pet with the City and getting them licensed. It’s the Law. Merriam City Code requires all cats and dogs over the age of 6 months to be licensed within 30 days of acquiring your pet. Pet licenses must be renewed annually. Failure to register your pet will subject the owner to penalties and municipal fines. If your pet goes missing, having him licensed drastically improves your chances of getting him back. A license tag helps animal control and shelters quickly identify your pet and get him back to you safely.
Licensing lets people know that your dog/cat is up to date on its vaccinations. Your dog/cat can’t be licensed unless it is properly vaccinated. Animal control or a good samaritan will be much more likely to want to handle and care for your missing pet if they know that it is healthy and rabies-free. How do I license my pet? If your pet is already registered with the City, you will receive a license renewal letter in the mail. Follow the steps provided to ensure continued coverage. If you are licensing your pet for the first time, you can visit the City’s website, www.merriam.org to download the registration form. If you have questions or would like additional information, call 322.5500.
Important City Numbers City Administration.............................. 913-322-5500 Monday - Friday 8 AM - 4:30 PM • Temporary Parking / Block Party Permits • Garage Sale Permits • Dog & Cat Licensing • Meeting Agendas & Minutes Community Development................... 913-322-5520 Monday - Friday 8 AM - 4:30 PM • Flood Plain & Zoning Questions • Capital Improvement Program • Building & Sign Permits • Occupational Licenses • Code Enforcement Fire Department.................................. 913-322-5530 • Burning Permits • First Aid/CPR/Baby-sitting Classes • Fire Prevention & Home Safety Evaluations • Smoke Detector Installation (battery only) Municipal Court................................... 913-322-5540 Monday - Friday 8 AM - 4:30 PM • Traffic Ticket Information • Court Appearances Parks & Recreation (Community Center) .... 913-322-5550 Monday - Thursday 8 AM - 9 PM Friday 8 AM - 5 PM Saturday 8 AM - 4 PM Sunday 1 - 5 PM Police Department.............................. 913-322-5560 Monday 8 AM - 6 PM Tuesday - Friday 7 AM - 9 PM Saturday 10 AM - 6 PM
Animal Control.................................... 913-322-5581 Non-Emergency Dispatch.................... 913-782-0720 Emergency............................................................911 Public Works Department................... 913-322-5570 Monday - Friday 7 AM - 3:30 PM • Park & Street Maintenance • Traffic Signals & Signs • Large Item Clean-up Campaign
Merriam Governing Body Ken Sissom, Mayor.............................. 913-523-5357 John Canterbury, Ward 1..................... 816-786-9980 Chad Rowe, Ward 1............................. 913-831-0144 Al Frisby, Ward 2.................................. 913-206-5354 Jim Wymer, Ward 2............................. 913-831-4061 Chris Hands, Ward 3............................ 913-384-5340 Nancy Hupp, Ward 3........................... 913-831-4471 Pam Bertoncin, Ward 4....................... 913-269-9518 Todd Boyer, Ward 4............................. 913-710-7619