CITY OF MERRILL LAUNCHING “CHRISTMAS OF THE PAST” PROJECT TO REPLACE HOLIDAY LIGHTS
The City of Merrill and the Merrill Area Chamber of Commerce are launching a new program to replace aging holiday lights as part of a “Christmas of the Past” initiative.
The city purchased its current LED decorations in 2010, but officials say the lights have now outlived their expected 10-year lifespan. The new LED lights would save the city money in the end with a one-time purchase instead of paying rent every fall. The new program allows residents, former residents, civic groups, and businesses to sponsor replacement lights in honor or memory of loved ones, helping update the displays without raising taxes.
Around 100 lights will need to be replaced, with installation expected to begin in November of 2026 and continue as donations are received. The Chamber has posted donation forms and light options on its website at merrillchamber.org/foundation. All contributions are tax-deductible.
Mayor Steve Hass and Alderman Michael “Gus” Caylor began talks with the chamber over a year ago to begin a program that would allow residents past and present as well as local civic group the opportunity to purchase new lights in honor or in memory of those who have always made Christmas special for them.
Caylor shared, “My mother was all about Christmas; she had up to five trees in her house, and every year she would take pictures to remember what went where for the next year. When she passed, our family agreed that a great lasting legacy would be to help decorate the city in a more traditional manner with some more festive holiday lights.”
Mayor Steve Hass reflected on early childhood memories. “As a child I remember the city had lights all over the city including a large arch in the Sixth Ward.” Hass also said, “while our residents do a phenomenal job in decorating their homes, I would like the city to show more of the holiday spirit without it being a burden on the taxpayers.”
With 100 lights to be replaced, the process may take a year or two to complete.
