Manhattan local news summary

Commission Debates $60M Pool Survey Amidst Public Opposition

Visible Progress Continues at CiCo Park Sports Complex

Amazon Facility Construction Now Underway

Key Economic Development Staffer Departs Manhattan Chamber

Workforce Initiatives Aim to Retain Local Talent

Commission Debates $60M Pool Survey Amidst Public Opposition

MANHATTAN - A proposal to survey residents about a potential $60 million indoor aquatics facility dominated Tuesday’s meeting, drawing sharp criticism from both the public and commissioners. The discussion centered on a draft survey designed to gauge public appetite for funding the project through either a 15-mill property tax increase or a 0.50% sales tax over 10 years. Several commissioners questioned the project's high price tag, the clarity of the survey questions, and the sustainability of the proposed funding models. During public comment, numerous residents called the project unaffordable and the timing "horrific," urging the commission to focus on essential needs like infrastructure and city staff pay. City staff will present the survey to the local school board and county commission before bringing a revised version back for further review.

Visible Progress Continues at CiCo Park Sports Complex

MANHATTAN - Commissioners shared a positive update on the major renovations at the CiCo Park athletic complex. Recent progress includes the installation of turf on several ball fields and the vertical construction of superstructures for new facilities. Work has also begun on the new concession stand and restroom building. The report signals that the taxpayer-funded project is moving forward on schedule.

Amazon Facility Construction Now Underway

MANHATTAN - After years of planning, construction on the new Amazon distribution facility is visibly progressing, commissioners noted during Monday's meeting. The site has been graded, and crews are now installing piping and preparing to pour the building's footings. The major economic development project, located near the Manhattan Regional Airport, is expected to bring a significant number of jobs to the region upon completion.

Key Economic Development Staffer Departs Manhattan Chamber

MANHATTAN - George Kandt, a key figure in the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce's economic development efforts since 2019, has left the organization for a new position in the Kansas City metro. Daryn Soldan, Executive Vice President of the Chamber, praised Kandt’s work on initiatives like the child care task force and the business retention and expansion program. The Chamber is currently undergoing an internal reorganization and will provide updates soon on how it plans to staff its economic development and advocacy roles moving forward.

Workforce Initiatives Aim to Retain Local Talent

MANHATTAN - The Manhattan Chamber of Commerce updated the commission on several key workforce and talent retention programs. Allison Muth, the Chamber's Talent Strategies Manager, reported that the recent "Keep Tour" has already resulted in five confirmed job placements for participants within the community. The Chamber is also actively seeking business sponsors for its "Classroom to Career" program, which pairs fourth-grade classrooms with local companies, and is recruiting mentors for its KSU mentorship program designed to keep graduate students in the region.

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