Manhattan, Kansas Development News
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07/21/26 City Commission Meeting
Published: Jul 21, 2026
Manhattan Proclaims National Day of the Cowboy with Discovery Center Events
The City Commission officially proclaimed July 25th, 2026, as the National Day of the Cowboy in Manhattan, encouraging citizens to observe the day with ceremonies and activities, preferably at the Flint Hills Discovery Center. The proclamation highlighted the historical significance of cowboys and their embodiment of virtues like honesty and integrity. The Flint Hills Discovery Center announced events for the day including wagon rides, rope making, branding demonstrations, and complimentary caps for the first 300 youth. A cowboy poetry contest was also scheduled for Friday evening at the Discovery Center, followed by poetry readings on Saturday.
Planet Fitness PUD Approved for East Points Avenue Location
The City Commission approved Ordinance 7832, rezoning a tract of land north of East Points Avenue and Sarbor Lane from neighborhood commercial district to a commercial planned unit development (PUD) district. This rezoning allows for the construction of a Planet Fitness facility. The PUD designation provides flexibility for signage and landscaping requirements. Permitted uses within the PUD will align with the neighborhood commercial district, excluding beverage kiosks. The planning board unanimously approved the rezoning. Traffic circulation was a public concern, but the developer is consolidating a driveway to improve flow. The future land use map designates this area for commercial use.
930 Yuma Street Rezoned to Business Commercial for Cultural Center
The City Commission approved Ordinance 7833, rezoning 930 Yuma Street from low-density residential attached district with an established neighborhood overlay to a business commercial district. This change was requested for the Yuma Cultural Center. Although the intended use is a cultural center, the rezoning allows for all uses permitted within the business commercial district, which is the city's most restrictive commercial zone. The property is currently zoned RLA with a neighborhood overlay, but the surrounding area includes a church and city facilities. The future land use map suggests this area could accommodate cultural or public facilities. The planning board and other review boards (Historic Resources Board, Board of Zoning Appeals) unanimously approved the rezoning. No public comments were received during the commission's review.
City Approves Purchase of New Aerial Bucket Truck Amid Cost Concerns
The City Commission discussed and approved the purchase of a new aerial bucket truck for the forestry division. Commissioner Morrison raised concerns about the $216,000 cost, questioning the necessity given the age of the current truck. Director Stewart explained that the existing 18-year-old truck is no longer certifiable for use and is frequently in the shop, posing a risk to health and safety, especially during storm responses. The new truck is critical for tree trimming and removal without contracting services. The purchase was funded through the general CIP fund, with $270,000 allocated in the previous year's budget for vehicle and equipment replacement. The new truck can be ready in 30 days, a significant advantage given long wait times for such vehicles. Two firms were contacted, but one had no immediate availability, making the presented option the most viable. The new truck comes with a standard three-year warranty on the vehicle, a lifetime warranty on the structure, and a one-year warranty on parts and labor.
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The Manhattan News archive
07/21/26 City Commission Meeting
Meeting Agenda (PDF)
07/20/26 Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
07/20/26 Riley County Law Enforcement Board
USD 383 Board of Education Meeting - July 15, 2026
07/14/26 City Commission Special Meeting
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