Merrell Hanson walking dogs
Merrell Hanson Family Photo

Meet Merrell

Merrell Hansen was elected to serve the citizens of Chesterfield’s Ward 4 as City Councilwoman in April 2022, with an overwhelming vote, winning with landslide margins in every precinct in her Ward. She currently serves as Chair of Chesterfield’s Planning & Public Works Committee and as Committee Member of Chesterfield’s Public Health and Safety Committee. Merrell regularly attends Parks and Recreation Committee meetings and related citizen’s advisory committee meetings, and Finance Committee meetings. She is the Council liaison to the Planning Commission and the Council Liaison with Chesterfield’s Board of Adjustment.

As Councilmember of Ward 4, she initiated bi-annual Ward 4 Trustee meetings, connecting her neighborhoods’ leadership with helpful Chesterfield resources. During those meetings, she heard about issues that needed attention and she was able to update residents on key issues in our community to pass along to their neighbors. It was the first time Ward Trustee meetings had ever occurred since Chesterfield began.

Merrell also represented the City of Chesterfield in the selection of legislative priorities for our Municipal League, to present to Missouri State Legislators.

Background

Her broad professional experience and time spent as a civic volunteer made her especially well-suited to represent Ward 4. She is a leader who listens, a true advocate for the people. She asks that you support her for reelection with your vote on April 2nd, 2024.

Merrell Hansen has deep roots in the Chesterfield community – an area that has been her family’s home for more than four decades. She cares about Chesterfield which is why she is running to serve on the Chesterfield City Council for a second term. In addition to her volunteer service for Chesterfield, Merrell’s background is in small business and entrepreneurship. She worked as the chief marketing officer for SmartCare, a business focused on improving the quality of life for those living with developmental disabilities. Merrell also served as Senior Vice President for Gannett, Co. and King Broadcasting, Inc. and played a role in the launch of USA TODAY.

Merrell learned first-hand the regulatory and payroll challenges small businesses face when she tapped into her entrepreneurial spirit and helped spearhead numerous successful St. Louis-based small businesses, including a National Emmy Award-winning public health communications firm.

Chesterfield has been Merrell’s home throughout her business career, which is why she has always been willing to roll up her sleeves and serve as a voice for her community on civic and professional boards, and as a non-profit volunteer.

Before serving as Ward 4’s Councilmember, Merrell chaired Chesterfield’s Planning Commission. In that capacity, she heard thousands of residents sharing their dreams for Chesterfield’s future. She has directed the creation of Chesterfield’s new Comprehensive Plan, the official guide for the growth of Chesterfield.

Merrell has served as president of the St. Louis Radio Association, president of the St. Louis Advertising Club, board member of the National Radio Association, board member of the Missouri Broadcaster’s Association and board member of the American Ballet Theater.

Merrell believes in giving back to her community and serves on numerous non-profit boards, including the Center for Children with Visual Impairments Merrell is currently treasurer of the region’s Gateway Sporting Dogs Association, promoting the love and care of dogs. She also serves as secretary of the local DAR Chapter, promoting patriotism and volunteering for veterans, making care packages for troops, food shelters, and participating in Wreaths Across America.

Merrell attended DePauw University. Chesterfield is where Merrell raised her family. She and Chris have one son, Christopher.

Merrell’s Priorities

  • Advocating for Our Neighborhoods

    Merrell will continue to fight for the quality of the neighborhoods we love. Merrell volunteers as Chesterfield’s Planning Commission Chair because she believes in making sure we grow sensibly – maintaining our small-town charm.

  • Supporter of Our Police Officers

    Merrell will never back down from ensuring our law enforcement is well funded. Ensuring Chesterfield continues to be a safe place to live and work is one of Merrell’s top priorities.

  • Protector of Our City's Taxpayers

    Merrell is committed to being a wise and careful steward of your tax dollars. As inflation continues to increase, the cost of everyday essentials rises. Merrell’s top priority is to ensure that taxes remain low.

  • Champion For Chesterfield’s Future

    Merrell stands behind residents' vision to enhance our walking and biking paths, parks, and gathering places. Merrell is dedicated to fostering Chesterfield's continued transformation into a sports and recreation hub in the region.

Merrell Hansen discusses Chesterfield Mall Redevelopment on KMOV

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