A 184-year tradition of civic service.
Founded in 1842 on the banks of the Meridian River, our city has grown from a settlement of 1,200 to a metropolitan community of more than 184,000 residents — held together by the same fundamental promise: that local government should be accountable, accessible, and built around the people it serves.
“ Civitas est unitas civium ”
— A city is the union of its citizens.Government in service of the public good.
The City of Meridian exists to provide essential services equitably, to safeguard the public good, and to invest in the long-term well-being of every neighborhood. We measure success not in policies passed, but in lives improved.
Integrity
Honest stewardship of public trust and resources, in every chamber and every transaction.
Transparency
Open meetings, open records, and clear communication about every decision we make.
Inclusivity
A government that reflects, listens to, and serves the full breadth of our community.
Stewardship
Balanced budgets and sustainable infrastructure, so the next generation inherits more than we received.
Six moments that shaped Meridian.
City of Meridian incorporated
A charter is granted on the banks of the Meridian River; the first Mayor is sworn in.
Hall of Mayors completed
The neoclassical Hall of Mayors opens its doors at 1 Civic Square — still our seat of government today.
First city-wide public works expansion
During the Recovery, the city paves 47 miles of road and modernizes water and sewer.
City Charter modernized
A council-mayor government is formalized; ward boundaries are redrawn for fair representation.
First open data portal launched
Meridian becomes one of the first mid-sized cities to publish council records and budgets online.
Modernized digital city services
The new citizen portal centralizes payments, permits, and 311 service requests in one place.
Elected, appointed, and accountable.
The Mayor and 12-member City Council are elected by ward; the City Manager is appointed by Council to lead daily operations.
Eleanor Vance
Term 2024–2028
Marcus Hale
Ward 4
Priya Ramaswamy
Ward 7
James Okafor
Appointed 2022Common questions about Meridian City Hall.
How do I attend or speak at a City Council meeting?
Council meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM in the Hall of Mayors. To address Council during public comment, sign up at the Clerk’s desk no later than 6:45 PM, or submit written testimony in advance through the Contact page.
Where can I view the FY27 city budget and audit reports?
All proposed and adopted budgets, annual financial reports, and external audits are available in the City Clerk’s open records portal. Hard copies are also available for inspection during business hours.
How do I obtain a building permit or business license?
Most permits and licenses can be applied for online via the Permits & Licenses quick service. Standard residential permits are typically issued within 2 to 3 business days; complex projects may require Planning Commission review.
What is the city’s 311 non-emergency line?
Dial 311 from any phone within city limits, or use the 311 Service Request form online to report potholes, missed trash collection, broken streetlights, and other non-emergency concerns. Emergencies should always go to 911.
How do I serve on a city board or commission?
Vacancies on city boards (Planning, Parks, Historic Preservation, Zoning Appeals, etc.) are posted by the City Clerk. Submit a brief application and resume; appointments are made by the Mayor with Council confirmation.
Have a question for City Hall?
Reach the right department directly. Most inquiries are answered within one business day.