Manhattan Park Board Meeting | July 2025

The Manhattan Park Board took a major step forward on its signature Round Barn Farm restoration project at its meeting on Thursday, July 10, 2025, by hiring an architect to design a partial interior buildout. The board also approved a three-year lease for a new skid steer to aid its maintenance operations. For more details on these developments, please see our full-length articles.

In other business, commissioners approved nearly $400,000 in monthly bills and received positive reports on the success of summer events and programs, including Heritage Fest and various summer camps.

Board Approves Nearly $400,000 in Bills: The board unanimously approved the June 2025 Treasurer’s Report, which included the payment of bills totaling $398,570.70. The funds cover the district’s operational expenses, which may include lodging and travel costs. The motion was approved by President Bridget Hope, Vice President Kristy Byers, Treasurer Joe Farkas, and Commissioner Nick Goodwin.

Summer Events Praised for Success: Park Board President Bridget Hope offered thanks to district staff for their hard work on the summer event lineup. She specifically highlighted the successful Heritage Fest and the Sip of Summer Concert Series. A recreation report noted that Heritage Fest drew an estimated 1,800 attendees who enjoyed a face painter, caricaturist, and petting zoo.

Summer Camps See Strong Turnout: The district’s summer camps have been a success despite high temperatures, according to a staff report. The first three weeks of camp saw a total of 382 campers participate in activities and field trips. Both the soccer and baseball youth leagues concluded their seasons in late June, and registration for fall sports is now open.

Park Maintenance Staff Address Vandalism and Storm Damage: The Parks and Operations department has been busy with repairs across the district. Recent work included removing graffiti from playground equipment at Foxford Park and reinstalling a vandalized park rule sign at Prairie Trails Park. Crews also repaired a damaged fence at the MPD Athletic Complex and worked with Homer Tree Service to remove and trim trees damaged by a recent storm.

Park Improvements Completed: Staff recently completed several improvement projects. The new Metro Station Dog Park received new park benches and an official sign, along with fresh landscaping. At Ivanhoe Park, crews graded the area, planted seed, and installed a straw blanket to aid grass growth. The parking lot at the Hansen Community Center has also been seal-coated and lined.

Upcoming Community Events: The Manhattan Park District has a full slate of upcoming events. The “Sip of Summer” concert series will continue at Central Park on July 23, August 6, and August 13. A “Movie in the Park” is scheduled for July 25, and “Foam Day” will take place on August 2, both also at Central Park.