06/30/26 City Commission Work Session

The City Commission Work Session for Manhattan, Kansas, held on June 30, 2026, focused extensively on procurement and budgetary matters. Key procurement-related discussions included the upcoming $15.66 million infrastructure project to replace the primary taxiway (Taxiway Alpha) at Manhattan Regional Airport. The project design was completed and competitively bid, with Clarkson Construction submitting the lowest bid. The city is awaiting FAA grant approval to proceed with awarding the construction contract, with construction planned from March to November 2027. Funding will leverage a favorable FAA grant split and passenger facility charges to cover the city’s share. Additionally, the session covered the proposed 2027 city budget and potential sales tax renewals. The budget discussion highlighted the need to stabilize the bond and interest fund, address deferred maintenance, and fund capital improvement projects including equipment and vehicle replacements. Various revenue sources such as property taxes, franchise fees, and sales taxes were analyzed, with a focus on balancing expenditures and revenues amid rising debt service costs. Commissioners debated mill levy increases and sales tax scenarios, weighing impacts on residents and the city’s financial health. The session also included detailed presentations on debt service, utility fees, and funding allocations for public safety, parks, and outside agencies. The commission planned further work sessions to refine the capital improvement plan and finalize budget and tax decisions ahead of the November ballot.