Menasha Mayor Don Merkes won't seek fifth term in office, opting to exit after 16 years

MENASHA — Mayor Don Merkes won't pursue a fifth term in office, ending his tenure after 16 years.

"It has been an honor and privilege to serve Menasha as its 40th mayor," Merkes said in a statement. "The thoughtful partnership of our city employees and elected officials have led to innovations that continue to make Menasha a stronger community."

Merkes first was elected mayor in 2008, when defeated incumbent Joe Laux. He ran unopposed in 2012, edged challenger Chris Klein in 2016 and defeated challenger Rebecca Nichols in 2020. He served as an alderman for three year before being elected mayor.

"Mayor Merkes has a strong legacy and has done great things for the city of Menasha," Nichols told The Post-Crescent.

Merkes says Menasha's future looks bright

During his first term as mayor, Merkes helped Menasha emerge from a cloud of debt from its failed steam plant.

Projects started or completed under Merkes' watch include the Loop the Lake recreational trail, the One Menasha Center downtown office tower, a new eastside fire station, a new public works facility, the new Racine Street Bridge, The Brin on Main mixed-use development and the renovation of Jefferson Park.

Merkes also played a role in maintaining the city's health department and moving City Hall to 100 Main St. in a lease agreement with the Menasha Joint School District.

"While there are many challenges in today's environment, I'm happy to have worked with a team that has been so creative and open to trying new things," Merkes said. "Menasha's future is bright. I look forward to seeing what the next generation will achieve."

More: Neenah-Menasha Fire Chief Kevin Kloehn will retire after 31 years

Candidates emerge to succeed Merkes

At least two candidates — Nichols and Austin Hammond — have been campaigning to succeed Merkes as mayor next year. Both are members of the Common Council.

Nichols represents District 1 and has served on the council since 2013.

"I was planning to run for a long time," Nichols said. "I have been actively fundraising and talking with folks since summer."

Hammond represents District 4 and has served on the council since 2022. He began distributing campaign literature at the July 3 Parade of Lights.

"I believe in the progress that we have made and that we can continue to make collectively," Hammond said. "I'm really excited to be running for mayor."

Nomination papers can be circulated starting Dec. 1. They are due by 5 p.m. Jan. 2.

The mayor's 2024 salary will be $80,000, a 14% increase from the current pay.

Contact Duke Behnke at 920-993-7176 or dbehnke@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @DukeBehnke.

This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: Menasha Mayor Don Merkes won't seek fifth term in office