08/04/26 City Commission Meeting

The City Commission meeting of Manhattan, Kansas, held on August 4, 2026, focused primarily on procurement and project updates related to community development and park improvements. Key discussions included the status of the Fifth and Leavenworth intersection and waterline project, which has experienced delays and budget challenges due to scope expansion, including added storm sewer work and a bus stop. Commissioners discussed the need to spend approximately $1 million in CDBG grant funds by April 2027 to avoid losing future allocations. Additionally, the commission considered and approved a construction manager at risk agreement with Mac Gordon Construction for $10,000 and a professional services agreement with Anderson Knight Architects for $561,442 for the Sunset Lemur to Americas exhibit at the Sunset Zoological Park. The project, estimated at $7.5 to $8 million in total, is funded by the Zoological Park and Wildlife Conservation Trust, which committed to covering the initial phase costs. The commission unanimously approved these agreements, highlighting strong community support for the zoo expansion and related capital improvements.