Mayor Bob Pape

Mayor

Term: Dec. 2025- Nov. 2029

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What are your top priorities or focus areas for the city?

My top priority is to leave the City in a better place than when I took office. My focus at this time is to make Merriam a downtown destination location that takes into consideration current downtown business and the wishes of what our community envisions.

What’s one accomplishment you’re most proud of during your time on the council?

I think I am most proud of listening to the desires of our community and working to meet their wishes. Our residents asked for us to do something with the blighted K-Mart and we delivered Merriam Grand Station. They asked for us to bring a grocery store to Merriam and construction has started on Trader Joe’s.

What’s your favorite local spot in the city?

It’s hard to pick one spot. I probably spend most of my time shopping at Home Depot. However, I prefer to frequent our local restaurants. There is not one here that I have not eaten at and I suggest that everyone check them out.

What do you love most about living here?

I love the people. Merriam has that small town feel where everyone seems to know each other and everyone is friendly. Yet we offer all the amenities of a large City and more.

What’s a fun fact people might not know about you?

This is not news to anyone that knows me well. However, I will share with those who don’t that I am a car and motorcycle enthusiast. I have several collector cars but the only one people see me drive is my Smart car. I like to think it makes me look smarter.

What’s your vision for the city in the next 5–10 years?

I want our City to become the one that other Cities envy. I want our City to be inclusive where all residents feel welcome. I want to see our Senior citizens and low-income residents have the ability to successfully live here. I want to end flooding in our downtown and see it grow and prosper into the downtown people flock too. I want to see greater walkability and bike-ability throughout our City. I want to see business flourish to the point that we can continue to lower property taxes. I want our Citizens to be as proud as I am that they chose Merriam as their home.