Manhattan local news summary

Riley County Confronts Neighboring Jurisdictions Over Transporting Homeless Individuals

Committee Formed to Address Aggieville Policing Concerns

RCPD Details 2026 Budget Context Amid Technological Push

Transfer Station Faces Months-Long Shutdown for Major Repairs

Riley County Fair Sees Surge in Community Participation

1. Riley County Confronts Neighboring Jurisdictions Over Transporting Homeless Individuals

RILEY COUNTY - Riley County is facing a growing challenge of individuals experiencing homelessness being transported from adjacent counties, placing a strain on local resources. At the August 21 meeting, Riley County Police Department Director Brian Peete reported to the commission that the department’s homelessness task force has identified a trend of law enforcement and other entities from smaller, neighboring areas directing unhoused individuals to Manhattan. Commissioners expressed concern over this practice, suggesting engagement with state-level representatives may be necessary to address the systemic issue. The task force is currently gathering data to share with community partners to develop a comprehensive plan.

2. Committee Formed to Address Aggieville Policing Concerns

MANHATTAN - A special committee has been formed to find solutions to ongoing policing issues in the Aggieville business district that are impacting local businesses. A report given at the August 21 Riley County Commission meeting detailed discussions from the recent Law Board meeting where members of the Aggieville business group continued to raise concerns. The newly formed committee includes a Law Board member, an RCPD representative, and a representative from the Aggieville Business Association, with the goal of presenting a solution before the first home football game.

3. RCPD Details 2026 Budget Context Amid Technological Push

RILEY COUNTY - In budget discussion, Director Brian Peete noted ongoing efforts to manage costs and leverage technology, while the 2026 RCPD budget has already been approved by the Law Board at $30.3 million, a 5.406% increase over 2025 (approved June 16). The department is exploring partnerships around intelligence-led policing tools, and a whole-body scanner for the jail is being procured to enhance safety and reduce liability.

4. Transfer Station Faces Months-Long Shutdown for Major Repairs

RILEY COUNTY - Riley County residents and commercial trash haulers can expect a significant disruption in services, as the County Transfer Station is set to close for an extended renovation. During their August 21 meeting, commissioners reviewed bids, including one from NF Construction, for the tipping-floor and chute replacement project; costs and schedule will be finalized upon staff review and award. The closure is expected to last multiple months and will require haulers and the public to find alternative disposal sites during construction.

5. Riley County Fair Sees Surge in Community Participation

RILEY COUNTY - Community engagement in the Riley County Fair is on the rise, with a significant increase in both youth and adult project entries this year. Daniel Skucius, Extension Director, reported to the commission that 4-H projects saw a 5.8% increase, totaling 2,189 entries. The open class category jumped 42%, with 436 entries from the general public. Staff noted the growth was a positive sign and highlighted strong support from other county departments.

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