Commission tables Move MHK parks master plan amendment

$60 million indoor aquatics facility survey sparks intense debate

Aspirational riverfront development concept presented to city

Flint Hills Discovery Center sculpture trail proposed

Groundbreaking held for Sunflower Flats senior housing project

Commission approves $150,000 for Habitat for Humanity home rehabs

City joins litigation over PFAS water contamination

Union Pacific Depot to feature tribute to former commissioner

Commission tables Move MHK parks master plan amendment

MANHATTAN, Kan. — After substantial debate over proposed changes to the Move MHK comprehensive parks and recreation master plan, the Manhattan City Commission voted 4-1 Tuesday to table the amendment. Concerns were raised during the meeting over the financial feasibility of future park projects and the wording of an indoor aquatics survey, leading to the scheduling of a work session before a final decision is made.

$60 million indoor aquatics facility survey sparks intense debate

MANHATTAN, Kan. — A recent community survey indicating limited public support for a new indoor aquatics facility drew sharp criticism Tuesday night. Critics expressed concern that the city's survey was flawed because it attached a $60 million price tag to the facility. They argued the high estimate may have discouraged respondents who might otherwise support a scaled-down, philanthropically funded public pool project.

Aspirational riverfront development concept presented to city

MANHATTAN, Kan. — As part of the tabled Move MHK amendment, an aspirational master plan to develop the Kansas River riverfront was presented to the city. Drafted by Riverfront MHK and Agency Landscape + Planning, the conceptual vision aims to increase river access and spur private investment. However, skepticism was voiced during the meeting about the viability of the project due to river maintenance and flooding concerns.

Flint Hills Discovery Center sculpture trail proposed

MANHATTAN, Kan. — A proposed sculpture trail at the Flint Hills Discovery Center was reviewed as part of the broader parks discussion Tuesday. The plan aims to provide intentional guidance for donor-supported public art installations around the facility. The discussion prompted calls from attendees for the reinstatement of a dedicated, citywide public art committee to coordinate and oversee art projects across Manhattan.

Groundbreaking held for Sunflower Flats senior housing project

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Mayor Susan Adamchak announced the official groundbreaking of Sunflower Flats, a long-awaited low-income housing campus for seniors located in the downtown area. The project, which has been in the works since 2021, will bring 62 new affordable housing units to the community following delays caused by a government shutdown and bureaucratic hurdles.

Commission approves $150,000 for Habitat for Humanity home rehabs

MANHATTAN, Kan. — City Manager Danielle Dulin was authorized to execute a $150,000 grant agreement with Habitat for Humanity of the Northern Flint Hills for the 2026 Home Rehabilitation and Repair Assistance Program. The program provides up to $25,000 per low-income homeowner for necessary safety repairs. The commission agreed to maintain a five-year mortgage structure for the grants, which forgives 20 percent of the loan each year the homeowner remains in the residence.

City joins litigation over PFAS water contamination

MANHATTAN, Kan. — The commission unanimously approved a contract for legal services with Stag Liuzza LLC and Perry & Trent LLC to represent the city in ongoing litigation regarding polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Joining the lawsuit requires no upfront financial obligation from the city and ensures Manhattan is eligible for potential settlement funds from chemical companies, such as 3M and DuPont, that manufactured firefighting foams, while providing proactive benchmark testing of the city's groundwater.

Union Pacific Depot to feature tribute to former commissioner

MANHATTAN, Kan. — A formal recommendation will be developed to honor former City Commissioner and physician Roger Reitz at the downtown Union Pacific Depot, following a unanimous vote by the commission. Reitz, who also served as a state legislator, was described as instrumental in securing funds for the depot's historic restoration. An internal committee of historians, city staff and Reitz's family will design the tribute, which will be funded through private donations.

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