Democrats Announce Candidacy For Newtown Township Supervisor

NEWTOWN TOWNSHIP, PA — Democrats Melissa Merk and Edward Merriman have announced their candidacy for two open seats on the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors.

If elected, the longtime township residents said they will incorporate their keen listening, team management, and conflict resolution skills into their roles as members of the board of supervisors.

Together the running mates said they would bring a fresh set of eyes and new solutions to maintaining fiscal responsibility; ensuring all voices are heard; advocating for sustainable practices that protect the environment; and supporting development that enhances the township’s walkability while preserving its character.

Merk, a lawyer of 22 years, has lived in the township or “Newtown adjacent” her entire life. When it came time for the mother of four to look at schools for her then-young son, enrolling him at Goodnoe Elementary School was a no-brainer for the Council Rock graduate.

"This is where I wanted to raise him,” she said. “I have such a true love for our community. I want to see it continue to thrive.”

Merk’s husband, Lars, shares her passion for the community.

As a supervisor, Merk said it is important for the governing body to make “good decisions” to maintain the township’s vibrancy and historic charm.

She enjoys walking along State Street in neighboring Newtown Borough and hopes to work collaboratively with the Newtown Borough Council in keeping both communities thriving and strong. Making shopping districts such as Sycamore Street more walkable is a goal, along with integrating components of the borough and the township, including the soon-to-be constructed pedestrian bridge across Newtown Creek at Frost Lane-Durham Road.

A committee person for Newtown Township District 7, Merk also serves as secretary of the Newtown Democrats. She said her strong involvement is important to her and serving as an elected official is the “logical next step.”

She has worked for Kline & Specter as a trial lawyer, representing individual clients on product liability cases since 2022. For the previous 20 years, Merk worked in litigation defending pharmaceutical and medical device companies, managing some 7,500 cases, and also served as vice chair of her practice group.

“I have a lot of experience with managing people, managing teams, doing high-pressure work as calmly as possible,” Merk said. “I know what it means to work hard and work together. I can help to identify people’s strengths and tap in on those.”

Merriman, a software developer of nearly 30 years, has led teams that supported military and aerospace initiatives and helped companies incorporate the latest technologies.

The Minneapolis native has lived in the township for 10 years with his wife, Abby Leafe. A father of four, Merriman loves the “great community” that is Newtown Township, as reflected in the wonderful place it is to live, work and raise families. Preserving the quality of life and lively restaurant, walking and shopping scene is a goal.

“I can give back. I can shepherd, be a caretaker and help Newtown continue to thrive,” he said, adding that his on-the-job teambuilding expertise will ensure everyone has a voice. “One of the key skills I have is to listen to people so I can understand and try to work toward their goals.”

In terms of goals, Merriman said he would like to determine how much open space Newtown Township has left and identify effective ways to manage it, preserving as much land as possible.

An avid motorcyclist and bass player for a local “dad band,” Merriman served for four years as the district judge of elections, ensuring smooth and fair elections for all.

He and Merk were drawn to Newtown Township in part because of the safe community and walkable streets. Working together to keep the positive momentum going is a goal for both Merk and Merriman.

“What happens when you become captain of a team that’s already winning?” Merriman asked. “You’re already doing well. You want to keep doing well.”

Merriman and Merk, who have the support of the Newtown Democrats, are seeking to maintain the 4-1 Democrat majority on the board. If elected, the candidates will fill six-year seats currently held by Dennis Fisher and John Mack, who are not seeking re-election.