Change Address

VOTE411 Voter Guide

Merriam Council Ward 3

Click a candidate icon to find more information about the candidate. To compare two candidates, click the "compare" button. To start over, click a candidate icon.

  • Candidate picture

    Christine Evans Hands
    (Non)

Biographical Information

What do you believe are the three critical projects or initiatives that will move your city/district forward?

What skills, expertise, experience, or competencies qualify you for this position?

What makes this office an important part of the local government?

Ballot City Merriam
Campaign Phone 913-384-5340
Campaign Address 10206 Edelweiss Cir.
Personal Biography Fifth generation in the KC Metro area (both sides of the state line.) Resident of Merriam for 45 years, with 21 years in Edelweiss/Ward 3. Proud mom to daughters, Melissa & Emily; proud grandma to 5!
Education Stanley Rural High School, Kansas State University, Jo Co Community College, Avila University - BS in Business with emphasis in Data Processing.
Community/Public Service Merriam City Council since 2005; currently Council President. Membership on various civic committees through the years and frequent volunteer at city events.
1. Continue to support development of the Merriam Grand Station Marketplace (north side of Shawnee Mission Parkway, west of Antioch) -- Trader Joe's grocery store, restaurants, and an apartment complex with some attainable housing units.

2. Implement as smoothly as possible the new single hauler solid waste contract -- November 1, 2026.

3. Continue to consider flood mitigation plans for the Downtown/Merriam Drive Corridor - which are expected to be presented by the US Army Corps of Engineers by year end.

All while keeping Merriam safe, fiscally sound, comfortable, and appealing to all.
I have 20 years of experience as Merriam Ward 3 councilmember, several terms as Council President, and participation on various city committees. I have knowledge of my community and have utilized my life experiences, especially the skills learned as a corporate manager.
City council members consider projects and policies proposed by City Staff with input from residents & businesses and thoughtful thoroughness. After that consideration process, council members publicly VOTE to direct staff on how to proceed. Council members are the City's directors -- policy setters and decision makers.