Mayor Pape proclaims November 2024 as Native American Heritage Month and Veterans Day

The Merriam City Council meeting on November 11, 2024, focused on community concerns, proclamations, and routine city business. Mayor Bob Pape opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and proceeded to roll call, confirming the presence of all council members.

During the public comment section, Jodine Coleman addressed the council regarding ongoing power outages affecting her mother's home in the neighborhood. Coleman expressed frustration over the lack of accountability from Evergy, the local utility company, and urged the council to advocate for a thorough investigation into the issue, which she believes is not solely related to tree interference, as suggested by the utility. She highlighted that the problem has persisted for decades and requested further action from the council to resolve the matter.

Following public comments, the council moved to the consent agenda, which included routine items that were approved unanimously without discussion.

Mayor Pape then presented two significant proclamations. The first recognized November 2024 as Native American Heritage Month, honoring the contributions of Native peoples and encouraging residents to celebrate their cultures and history. The second proclamation declared November 11, 2024, as Veterans Day, acknowledging the sacrifices of military personnel and urging the community to honor their service.

The meeting concluded with applause for both proclamations, reflecting the council's commitment to recognizing the contributions of Native Americans and veterans within the community.