David Merriman

David Merriman is the James J. Stukel Presidential Professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), holding a joint appointment with the Institute of Government and Public Affairs (IGPA). His research focuses on tax policy, fiscal sustainability, and public finance, with particular emphasis on property tax reform, tax increment financing (TIF), and Medicaid spending. He advises policymakers and has testified before the Illinois legislature, contributing to state budget processes and economic development strategies.

Teaching responsibilities include courses such as Policy Development and Analysis, Public Budgeting, and State and Local Public Finance at the MPA and PhD levels. His work spans academic articles in journals like the National Tax Journal and Urban Studies, addressing tax evasion, fiscal crises, and urban economic policy.

Key grants include leadership roles in projects funded by the University of Chicago, Volcker Alliance, and the MacArthur Foundation, examining state budgeting processes and fiscal futures. He has received the Outstanding Paper Award of 2019. His research often bridges academic insights with practical policy solutions, emphasizing equitable taxation and sustainable fiscal frameworks.