Top 5 things you should know from Manhattan City Commission
MANHATTAN — The Manhattan City Commission conducted a lengthy session Tuesday addressing zoning disputes, municipal finances and infrastructure improvements, with a contentious rezoning proposal ultimately failing to secure approval.
Residential Rezoning Request Fails
The commission deadlocked on a proposal to rezone two historic East Park neighborhood properties at 300 North 11th Street and 1020 Leavenworth Street from low-density residential to low-density residential attached zoning. The 3-2 vote fell short of the supermajority required due to a valid protest petition from nearby residents.
The applicant sought to allow construction of up to three single-family attached townhomes per lot on the two parcels, which currently contain nonconforming multifamily units. Supporters emphasized the need for workforce housing and noted the area's compatibility with the comprehensive plan. Residents expressed concerns about neighborhood character, infrastructure strain, displacement of affordable rental units and the precedent the rezoning would set.
The commission split on the proposal, with some commissioners concerned about contradicting the planning board's recommendation and the neighborhood downzoning adopted in 2015 to promote stability. Others emphasized Manhattan's housing shortage and the compatibility of the proposed density with the broader comprehensive plan.
The commission voted to repeal a previously adopted ordinance on the matter to clean up county records.
City Water Department Wins National Recognition
The Public Utilities Department received commendation for operational excellence, earning the Class 5 Wastewater Treatment Plant Award and Class 5 Outstanding Biosolids Management Program award from the Kansas Water Environment Association. The department also received the Peak Performance Platinum Award from the National Association of Clean Water Agencies for 100 percent compliance with no permit violations over seven years.
Director Randy DeWitt credited the 24-hour staff at the wastewater treatment plant. "I always like to say the facilities are nothing. It's the people that work at those facilities and help us out every day," he said.
Hospital Receives Bond Approval for $5 Million Investment
The commission unanimously approved the issuance of up to $1.407 billion in qualified 501(c)(3) bonds by the Indiana Finance Authority for Ascension Via Christi Hospital. Manhattan's facility will receive $5 million of the proceeds, designated for updating the nurse call system, purchasing a new CT scanner and acquiring patient monitoring and medical equipment.
2024 City Audit Approved With Minor Findings
The city received an unmodified audit opinion, the highest rating available, for its 2024 financial statements. The audit identified two findings related to COVID-19 grant expenditures and federal compliance procedures, which staff said have been addressed through corrective action plans.
Finance Director Rena Nail noted the city is transitioning to new financial software and working to restore the comprehensive statistical section to future audits.
Business District Rezoning Approved Unanimously
The commission unanimously approved rezoning a tract at Stone Creek Business Center from planned unit development and neighborhood commercial to business commercial zoning. The applicant indicated plans for expanded parking facilities and improved circulation to serve existing tenants who have experienced capacity constraints.
The meeting lasted approximately four hours, extending public comment periods to accommodate neighborhood concerns about the residential rezoning proposal.