Council approved several capital and infrastructure items intended to advance planned city improvements and to take advantage of external funding opportunities.

City Hall interior improvements: Economic/tourism staff (Ms. Gard) described phase 2 of City Hall renovations, emphasizing reorganization of the main level to support customer service and to reduce lobby noise during municipal court. "Design will occur in 2025 with construction occurring in 2026," staff said. The council authorized the city to sign a contract with Clark and Anderson for design work; motion passed 7‑0.

Street and stormwater project: Public Works staff presented a Northeast Merriam street and drainage improvement project originally planned for 2026 but advanced to 2025 after notification that the county could provide up to $545,350 for stormwater improvements if construction occurs in 2025. The recommended design firm (Lisonbee) submitted a design fee of $249,467; council approved the design agreement 7‑0 and staff said design, right‑of‑way and construction would be planned for 2025 if funding and scheduling permit.

CIP and utilities update: Staff said Evergy selected Capital Electric for an undergrounding project with a pre‑construction meeting scheduled and that contractors indicated a potential Nov. 18 start; staff warned the project could involve lane drops and might continue into July next year. The single‑hauler work group reported near‑final RFP language and expects a draft for council review on Dec. 9.

Council discussed phasing to reduce impacts at school start and asked staff to coordinate schedules with nearby schools and adjacent jurisdictions. Recorded votes show unanimous approval where motions were presented.