The Merriam City Council convened on October 28, 2024, to address key issues affecting the community and to select a new representative for Ward 4. The meeting began with a focus on flood mitigation efforts, which were highlighted as a top priority for the city. Council members emphasized the urgency of enhancing resilience against natural disasters, particularly in the downtown area, which is seen as vital for the city's future growth and vibrancy.

During the meeting, candidates vying for the Ward 4 Council position presented their qualifications and visions for the city. Reuben Koesmeyer, one of the candidates, underscored the importance of combining technical expertise with relational skills to effectively address community issues. He shared his experience in advocating for community investments, such as improvements to the Johnson County Library System, and expressed optimism about the future of Merriam.

Following the candidate presentations, the council proceeded to a voting process to select the new representative. Each council member was tasked with voting for two candidates from a list of five. The two candidates receiving the highest votes, Reuben Koesmeyer and Nita Dillon, advanced to a second round of voting. Ultimately, Koesmeyer emerged as the winner with six votes, securing his position as the new Ward 4 representative.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from council members to encourage all candidates to remain engaged in city affairs, regardless of the outcome. Koesmeyer was sworn in immediately after the vote, marking the beginning of his term on the council. The discussions and decisions made during this meeting reflect the council's dedication to addressing pressing community needs and fostering active civic participation.