2014 Winter | Spring 2015 Merriam Highlights Newsletter

 Learn more about

 Merriam and

Merriam’s solid waste codes

PAGE 4

 Idle Threat: Protect

Overland Park expand Fire Department partnership

yourself from cold weather car theft

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PAGE 5

MERRIAM

Highlights PUBLISHED FOR THE RESIDENTS & BUSINESSES OF MERRIAM WINTER 2014 / SPRING 2015

2015 Budget Highlights

In August, Merriam’s Governing Body approved the City’s 2015 Budget with $24.9 million for operations, capital improvement projects and debt service.

Approximately $9.7 million will be invested in infrastructure projects for which the city has secured federal and local grant assistance of $3.8 million.

Where does the money come from?

2015 Property Tax Mill Levy – The Governing Body is requesting a levy of 27.6 mills, unchanged from last year.

Property Tax Mill Levy Distribution 46% 23% 19% 8% 3% 1%

Shawnee Mission School District City of Merriam Johnson County Government Johnson County Community College Merriam Drainage District State of Kansas

In 2015, homeowners will pay approximately $2,080 in annual real estate taxes on a home with a $150,000 market value. The City of Merriam receives just $477, or 23% of this amount. The remaining balance goes to the Shawnee Mission School District (46%), Johnson County Government (19%), Johnson County Community College (8%), Merriam Drainage District (3%), and the State of Kansas (1%).

Retail Sales Tax Revenues – Merriam’s location along the highly visible I-35 corridor provides retailers with a large customer base. In fact, Merriam has the highest “pull-factor” in the State of Kansas at 3.38, meaning that more purchases are made by shoppers who live outside the city than those who live within the city. It is a measure of the strength of the city’s retail business community.

For 2015, city and county sales taxes are expected to be the largest source of city-wide revenues at $11.3 million, or 45%, of 2015 budgeted revenues.

In comparison, city property taxes for 2015 are expected to be $3.4 million or 14% of budgeted revenues. For every dollar spent by the city in 2015, $.14 is from city property tax, while $.45 is from sales and use taxes, and $.41 is from other sources like franchise fees, grants and court fines.

- Continued on page 3

CITY OF MERRIAM, KANSAS 9001 W 62ND STREET MERRIAM, KS 66202-2815

PRESORT STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 576 SHAWNEE MISSION, KS

A Holiday Message From Mayor Ken Sissom Greetings Merriam Residents, I hope you are all enjoying the holiday season. I am writing to report that the City of Merriam is doing well and looking forward to 2015. As you know, it has been a very eventful year and some special things are in the works for next year.

Our city staff and the folks at IKEA did a wonderful job during grand opening weeks in September. It was one of the largest business grand openings in Johnson County history.

All indications are that the sales from the first weeks of operations exceeded their goals. I know residents may have been inconvenienced, but things are now starting to slow down to a new normal. Thank you all for your patience in the process – and kudos to the Merriam Police Department for keeping traffic moving smoothly.

If you have driven in the area of IKEA, you’ve probably noted the construction activity in the lot just east of IKEA. A new Hobby Lobby store is currently under construction at that location, expected to open by early spring (possibly sooner).

There are also plans for additional businesses to open in 2015 in the adjacent lot.

The year 2014 has been a tough year for motorists in the area and Merriam is no exception. One of the more important functions of any city government is the maintenance of streets. A number of road projects have been completed in 2014 and some are still underway. We have had street replacement projects on Grant, Carter and Hayes streets.

KDOT refinished Shawnee Mission Parkway, both east and west of Antioch, and Merriam is in partnership with Overland Park to rebuild 75th Street. I can’t forget to mention the Johnson Drive Bridge replacement over Turkey Creek.

That project created a significant challenge for those living and working west of that location. Also, it took a month longer than expected due to struggles posed by one of the utility providers. I am happy to report, however, that the bridge opened in August and it looks great.

In conclusion, I am looking forward to the next 12 months.

Feel free contact me by phone at 913.523.5357, or via email at mayors@merriam.org, if you have any questions or comments. I am also available for face-to-face meetings, one hour before each council meeting at 6:00 PM. I invite you to kick off your holiday season in downtown Merriam on December 6th with “Sundown with Santa” and Mayor’s Tree Lighting Ceremony beginning at 5:30 PM at the Merriam Marketplace. Immediately following these festivities, Merriam residents are invited to a community dinner hosted by members of the Downtown Merriam Partnership and area businesses (tickets required). Visit the city’s website, www.merriam.org, for these and other special events planned in the upcoming months.

Have a blessed holiday season.

Mayor Ken Sissom

Merriam Seeks Resident Input In Citizen Satisfaction Survey The City of Merriam is conducting a resident survey to gauge citizen satisfaction in Merriam. A similar survey was conducted in 2012, that established benchmarks for our community. The new survey will help us measure our progress on several key issues facing the city, and allow residents to provide feedback on how their city and tax dollars serve them.

City staff is working with an independent, external firm, ETC Institute, which conducted past citizen surveys in Merriam.

The first phase of the survey will be completed in January when randomlyselected citizens will receive a mail-in survey. Questions are designed to

collect trend data on how Merriam residents rate the quality of city services and the community as a whole, their awareness and preferences regarding the city’s communication vehicles, and their opinions on future city initiatives.

“This survey will provide valuable feedback for our city leaders,” says Assistant City Administrator Chris Engel. “We encourage residents to complete the questionnaire thoughtfully and honestly to ensure any future programs and services implemented by the city align with the needs of our growing community.”

The survey results, in conjunction with the city’s performance measurement outcomes, will be used by city leaders to monitor the quality of city services,

establish budget priorities for future years, and make planning and policy decisions.

Your input is very valuable to the city. If you are interested in finding out more information about the city’s citizen survey, please call 913.322.5507 or visit www.merriam.org.

PA G E T W O

2015 Budget Highlights

Franchise Fee Rebate Program

- Continued from page 1

Where does the money go?

For less than the cost of monthly cable service, our residents receive highquality city services such as police and fire protection, snow removal, street maintenance, community programs, and beautiful neighborhood parks.

More details on the city’s 2015 budget can be found on the city’s website, www.merriam.org/finance.

2015 Citywide Budget: Revenue Sources

This chart demonstrates the expected sources for each dollar of 2015 revenues.

45¢

41¢

Sales/Use Tax

Other Sources

(franchise fees, grants, court fines)

14¢

Property Tax

The City of Merriam will begin accepting applications for the Franchise Fee Rebate Program on February 1, 2015.

This program provides Merriam families, whose income fall within the limits established by HUD, the opportunity to apply for a refund of the franchise fees paid on electricity, gas and telephone bills during 2014.

This year will mark the 33rd year this program has been offered to Merriam residents.

Applications can be obtained from the Community Development Department by calling 913.322.5520 or in person at City Hall (9001 W. 62nd Street) between 8:00 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.

Completed applications must be returned to the Community Development Department along with all 2014 gas, electric and telephone invoices, and proof of income for all household members. For proof of income, residents can provide their 2014 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 February 1 through May 1, 2015

2015 Citywide Budget: How the City will Spend $1 This chart illustrates how each of your 2015 tax dollars will be spent

5¢ 5¢ 4¢

& O Pu ve bl rh ic ea W C d om or ks m un /S it y tr ee Pa De ts rk ve s & lo pm Re e D cre nt eb at t S ion er vic e

12¢ 10¢

Ec on om ic &

G en er al G ov t

Fir e Pr ot ec tio n

25¢

Po lic e &

C ap it a lI m pr ov em en ts

39¢

Orange Barrel Updates

With construction season slowly coming to a close, the City of Merriam is wrapping up one of our most aggressive build years to-date. Most notably, the completion of the Johnson Drive Bridge over Turkey Creek. This project replaced the structurally deficient bridge to improve safety for vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The bridge re-opened to traffic in August.

Progress has been made on the 75th Street Improvement Project as well. The ramps at 75th Street to and from I-35 re-opened in October.

There will be intermittent lane closures throughout November for westbound 75th Street traffic from I-35 to Switzer to complete work on the traffic signals.

Remaining construction work includes median replacement between I-35 and the East Frontage Road, and curb work on Kings Cove Drive and Switzer Road. All work is set for completion in the spring of 2015.

For more information on the city’s capital improvement program and active construction projects, visit www.merriam.org and click on the “Road Construction & Orange Barrel Alerts.”

WINTER 2014 / SPRING 2015

Merriam Highlights Newsletter PA G E T H R E E

www.merriam.org | 913.322.5500 | cityofmerriam@merriam.org

SAVE THE DATE: Merriam’s Spring Large Item Pick-up is Scheduled for April 20 - 24 Twice a year, the city conducts a large item clean-up campaign for the residents of Merriam. The Merriam Public Works Department is responsible for this campaign, which occurs annually during the third full week of April and October.

The city’s spring pick-up will occur April 20 - 24, 2015. There are restrictions on the materials the city will accept. For a schedule of the spring pick-up and list of acceptable items, please visit www.merriam.org, or call the Merriam Public Works Department at 913.322.5570.

Codes Corner Cooler weather and the changing of the seasons mean the falling of leaves and fall yard work.

Residents are reminded that lawn waste, including grass clippings and fallen leaves, should not be placed into the street or gutters. Such debris can build up causing problems to the storm sewer system, flooding, property damage and unsafe conditions.

For these reasons, placing yard waste in the street or down storm drains is strictly prohibited by Merriam Municipal Code and property owners found in violation may be subject to a fine.

The City’s street sweepers can’t sweep up large piles of leaves or debris. Raking, bagging, and disposal of yard waste are the responsibilities of the property owner. Please utilize proper disposal methods as outlined with your contracted waste removal service.

Changes Coming to Burn Permit Process There will be a few procedural changes to the burn permit process when Overland Park Fire Department begins providing fire services in Merriam. Starting in 2015, burn permits will only be issued for a maximum of 30 days. There is no limit to how many subsequent burn permits will be issued. Each initial burn permit will require a site inspection. Burn permit requests can be made online or by phone and are free of charge. Burn permits will also no longer automatically renew. The most noticeable change will be recreational fires that are uncontained but smaller than 3 feet in diameter by 2 feet high or fires that are contained in a fire pit, portable outdoor fireplace or similar will require no permit.

TRASH TALK

Updates to the City’s Solid Waste Code

In 2012, the Johnson County Board of County Commissioners adopted a new Code of Regulations for Solid Waste Management, dramatically changing solid waste disposal in Johnson County. The county’s updated regulations require yard waste be separated from the solid waste stream and hauled to a composting facility. Additionally, every solid waste hauler in Johnson County is now required to provide unlimited curb side recycling as part of their basic residential services.

Following the adoption of the county’s revised solid waste regulations, the City of Merriam established an ad hoc solid waste committee comprised of Merriam residents, Council and Planning Commission Members. The purpose of this committee was to review and revise the city’s solid waste ordinances and ensure they are in-line with the county’s updated regulations.

This summer, the committee presented their recommendations to Merriam’s Governing Body, and a new ordinance amending the city’s solid waste code was adopted.

A number of the updates and changes are related to requirements for solid waste haulers operating in the City of Merriam. However, the portion of the ordinance that residents will most likely be affected by is a section of the code that did not change -- the requirement that all solid waste and recyclable containers be stored inside a structure or placed behind the front building line and screened from view.

The screening of solid waste and recyclable containers improves the neighborhood appearance and increases the City of Merriam’s visual appeal. Should a resident fail to properly store or screen trash and recyclable containers, citations may be issued resulting in possible fines.

Should assistance be needed to construct screening, local businesses such as Denton Enterprises (913.432.5771) and Home Depot (913.789.8899) can suggest materials and provide various options that are compliant with the city’s screening requirements.

Additional changes to the code include: • The new ordinance permits solid waste and recyclable containers to be placed curb side eighteen (18) hours prior to, and removed eighteen (18) hours following collection.

• Composting activity can only occur on residential property and only for the use of the residents of the property. In addition, the composting area cannot be larger than 150 square feet and must be located at least 30 feet from any neighboring dwelling unit.

The updated solid waste regulations (Chapter 56 of Merriam’s Code of Ordinances) can be found on the city’s website, www.merriam.org. For more information or questions regarding the regulations, please contact the Community Development Department at 913.322.5520.

For more information call 913-888-6066 or visit www.merriam.org/MFD.

PA G E F O U R

AN IDLE THREAT:

Merriam Police Warn of Cold Weather Car Thefts Cold weather is here, there’s no doubt about that. Dressing to go outside in the morning to warm the car seems to take forever. It would be so easy to just start the car, run back into that warm, cozy house and have a little more coffee. But the Merriam Police Department is warning residents to think twice before you walk away.

A running vehicle is an invitation for criminals, even if locked. In the amount of time it takes to walk into your home, someone can steal your vehicle. Car thieves wait and watch for people to walk away, then strike. They’re not only stalking your neighborhoods, but watching at convenience stores, retail centers, and office parks. You may think that locking your keys in the car will dissuade these criminals, but it doesn’t. A crafty thief can often pick a lock faster than you can open it with your key.

Following these simple tips will help keep you from being left out in the cold: • Never leave your car running or the keys in the ignition when you are away from it, even for “just a minute.”

• Keep valuables out of sight or in the trunk.

Purses, credit cards, and cell phones in plain view only help attract thieves.

• Always roll up the windows and lock your car, even if it is in your driveway, garage, or in front of your home.

• Carry your registration and insurance card with you. Copy your license plate and vehicle identification (VIN) numbers on your insurance card and keep them with your driver license. If your car is stolen, police will need this information promptly.

• Never leave the vehicle title in your car.

If stolen, it makes it easier for the thief to dispose of your vehicle.

• Remove any personal identification documents or discarded mail from your vehicle. These documents can also make you a target for identity theft.

• Only park your car in busy, well-lit areas.

• Be alert when approaching your car, have a plan of action, and have your keys in your hand. Check around, under, and in your vehicle for suspicious individuals.

Immediately leave the scene to get help if you have any concerns for your safety.

• If your vehicle has an alarm or other anti-theft device, USE IT, and report any suspicious activity to the police immediately – when in doubt, call 911.

If you have any questions, please contact the Merriam Police Department at 913.322.5560.

Remember, starting your day with a cold car is better than starting your day with a stolen car.

A Partnership With Benefits

In 2014, the cities of Merriam and Overland Park began a unique collaborative agreement.

The Overland Park Fire Department began providing Merriam an advanced-life support (ALS) paramedic and a medical quickresponse vehicle. In return, Merriam has provided fire coverage for the northern-most parts of Overland Park.

“This has been an excellent match for both our organizations,” said Merriam City Administrator Phil Lammers.

In fact, the arrangement has worked so well the cities are expanding their partnership in 2015. Beginning January 1st, the Overland Park Fire Department will provide all firefighting, fire investigation, fire training and fire code enforcement services for Merriam.

Merriam’s twenty-one fire department employees will become part of Overland Park Fire, but the City of Merriam will retain ownership of the fire station and all fire equipment for use by the OP firefighters.

All of the trucks, equipment, and even uniforms will be marked in a manner that identifies both Merriam Fire and Overland Park Fire departments.

The unique partnership will save both cities money. Merriam officials estimate it may save half a million dollars over the course of the ten year contract. Overland Park fire officials estimate the arrangement will save their city $120,000 per year, in contract costs – all while maintaining the heightened service provisions of the ALS first response in both locations.

Requesting City Services Just Got Easier!

Merriam’s Online Citizen Request Tracker was designed to enable residents and business owners to easily notify the city of nonemergency requests for services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The Citizen Request Tracker is a tool for citizens to share concerns and offer feedback that will make our community better. Anything from overgrown grass, potholes, vandalism, even streetlight outages.

Simply visit www.merriam.org, and let us know what needs to be fixed.

Submitting a request for service is as easy as one, two, three...

1. Choose a category that best fits your request.

2. Choose a request type you would like to make.

3. Fill out and submit the request form.

That’s it! Once the request has been submitted, it will be routed to the appropriate department, city staff will begin taking action to resolve the issue, and you will be receive updates and notification once the request is complete.

Most requests will be quickly resolved. However, depending on the nature of your request, it may take some time before your item is resolved. Sometimes research is required to obtain more information. If a code violation is involved, there are legally required notices that must be given. Rest assured though, once entered, your request is being addressed.

Merriam’s Online Citizen Request Tracker provides the opportunity for our community to be actively involved in keeping Merriam a great place to live, work and play.

For additional information, visit www.merriam.org/MFD.

WINTER 2014 / SPRING 2015

Merriam Highlights Newsletter PA G E F I V E

www.merriam.org | 913.322.5500 | cityofmerriam@merriam.org

Connecting With Your Community A successful community is a place where residents feel well connected, have a sense of belonging and identify as being part of their neighborhood. In this issue of the Merriam Highlights, we are introducing a new feature – one that we hope will help forge a stronger bond within our community and introduce you to Merriam’s most valuable assets – our people.

Myra Jenks is one of Merriam’s longest-standing residents, having moved to Merriam in 1935 with her family. She attended Merriam Grade School and RESIDENT PROFILE graduated from Shawnee Mission Rural High School. Myra enlisted in the army during World War II along with her three brothers. When the war ended, she returned to Merriam and married her husband, Harry Jenks. Being community minded, Myra became highly involved as a young homemaker by working in the school, church and neighborhood. She and Harry were leading citizens in preserving the Merriam Grade School for a community center. Myra has served on the Merriam Visitors Bureau Advisory Board and the Merriam Parks & Recreation Community Center Foundation Board. She remains active in our community, including completing sewing projects for Shawnee Mission Medical Center and the Johnson County Christmas Bureau. Myra is the president of Historic Merriam, Inc, and co-author of the book, “Historic Merriam: The History of Merriam, Kansas.”

Myra Jenks

What is your earliest “Merriam” memory?

My family moved to Merriam from the Plaza when I was 12. We left our “modern” home in the city for a house in the country without any indoor plumbing. We had ¾ acres of land along the Shawnee border, complete with chickens and a dog. Ours was only the third house on a dead-end street near 61st and Mastin.

What do you think is the most significant event in Merriam’s history, and how did it help shape our city today?

The establishment of the first car dealership between 1946 and 1950 started the “car” city. Until that time Merriam was a “town” with two grocery stores, a bank, gas company and telephone company. When Merriam Town Center was completed in the

1980’s, our community started the transition to a mix of commercial and residential that we see today.

What do you want the next generation of Merriam residents to know about our community?

There was a time when the neighbors worked and played together – there were no fences, and kids roamed between the houses in the neighborhood playing outside from dawn to dark. People don’t know their neighbors anymore, “old” people sell their houses and downsize to assisted living or maintenance free housing… It’s no longer a “town” where everyone knows everyone, but a city. People need to make an effort and get to know one another. Only then will our history survive and our community flourish.

Anna Slocum has been the Director of Merriam’s Parks and Recreation Department since 2012. She oversees the development, management, and operations of all city parks, community center, aquatic center, marketplace, recreation programs, and community events.

What are a few common misconceptions that people have about your job?

1. That it’s like the television show, Parks and Recreation.

2. That we “play” every day. There is a lot of planning, coordination and budgeting that occurs for all events, projects and programs.

What is most rewarding about your job; what makes it worthwhile?

Working in Parks and Recreation, we have the ability to have a positive impact and directly affect peoples’ lives in several ways.

Through large special events, we see memories being made that families will cherish their entire lives. Through programs and services offered at facilities, we see the direct influence these services have on their lives. We build relationships and friendships with our patron base. People seek out our programs and events

STAFF PROFILE

Anna Slocum

knowing that we will provide a fun, family focused experience.

In addition to the great programs, events and services we provide, Parks and Recreation offer great opportunities for employment, especially for those looking for a first job or seasonal employment.

We are able to influence a young workforce and provide necessary skills such as critical thinking, cash handling, customer service, leadership and supervision.

What is the best compliment you’ve ever received?

Knowing that the majority of what we do is done behind the scenes and people benefit from the fruits of the labor-- the most flattering recognition is acknowledgment of the time and effort that is put into making that event or project the best it can be.

Whether you live on a quiet cul-de-sac or a busy street, it’s important to get to know your neighbors. If you think you, or someone you know, should be profiled in our next issue, send us an e-mail at cityofmerriam@merriam.org, and help us get to know you better!

The A-Z’s of Holiday Travel Planning a winter travel excursion? The holidays are fast approaching and AAA predicts busy roads over Thanksgiving and Christmas.

To get a head start on upcoming travel plans and to keep your holidays happy instead of

hectic, check out the Merriam Visitors Bureau’s latest blog “The A-Z’s of Holiday Travel” at www.exploremerriam.com. From helpful apps to clever tips, we wish you safe travels and a joyous holiday season.

WINTER 2014 / SPRING 2015

Merriam Highlights Newsletter

www.merriam.org | 913.322.5500 | cityofmerriam@merriam.org