05/05/26 Manhattan City Commission Meeting

The City of Manhattan, Kansas City Commission held a meeting on May 5, 2026, which included several proclamations recognizing National Travel and Tourism Week, Poppy Day, and Child Care Provider Appreciation Day. The commission approved various consent agenda items, including ordinances related to child care licensing and local grants. A significant portion of the meeting focused on economic development projects, notably the Edge 3.0 initiative involving the Kansas State University Foundation. The commission set public hearing dates for the creation of a tax increment finance (TIF) district and a STAR bond district to support this development, which includes infrastructure improvements, hotel and residential construction, and an equestrian track facility. Discussions highlighted the financial structure, public financing tools, and anticipated community benefits, with further detailed plans to be presented at future hearings. Additionally, the commission approved the 2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) annual action plan, allocating funds to local organizations and infrastructure projects benefiting low- and moderate-income residents. Updates were provided on several pavement maintenance projects funded through state grants and local taxes, with bids awarded to local contractors. Motions to approve these projects and related agreements were passed unanimously.