Manhattan local news summary
Week of December 31 2025
County treasurer announces new facility fee to offset budget deficit
Commission appoints new district coroner following retirement
Public works announces closure of Silver Creek Road for repairs
Fire department vehicle likely totaled in storm-related crash
County treasurer announces new facility fee to offset budget deficit
MANHATTAN, Kan. - Riley County Treasurer Shiloh Hagar announced the implementation of a $2.50 facility fee for motor vehicle transactions performed in the office, effective Jan. 1. Hagar reported that statutory fees set by the state legislature have remained flat while costs have risen, forcing the county's general fund to subsidize the motor vehicle department by more than $400,000 in the 2025 estimates. While the new fee is expected to generate only $75,000, Hagar stated it is a necessary step to reduce the tax burden on the general fund given the lack of legislative action on fee structures.
Commission appoints new district coroner following retirement
MANHATTAN, Kan. - The Riley County Board of County Commissioners authorized the appointment of Dr. David Dupy as the new district coroner, following the retirement of Dr. Susan Speaks. Assistant County Counselor Michael Hawthorne presented the nomination from the Riley County Medical Society, noting that Dupy currently serves as the coroner for Saline and Ottawa counties.
Public works announces closure of Silver Creek Road for repairs
MANHATTAN, Kan. - The Riley County Public Works Department announced a road closure scheduled for Dec. 30 on Silver Creek Road at the intersection of North 60th Street to facilitate a culvert replacement. The road will be closed from 60th Street south to North 52nd Street, with North 60th Street remaining open to traffic. Crews expect to reopen the roadway by mid-afternoon.
Fire department vehicle likely totaled in storm-related crash
MANHATTAN, Kan. - A Riley County Fire District #1 battalion chief's truck was heavily damaged and likely totaled in a collision on Dec. 28 during a winter storm. Fire Chief Russel Stukey reported that while responding to a call, a vehicle stuck in a ditch gained traction and entered the roadway unexpectedly, causing a collision with the fire department truck and its trailer.
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