Manhattan Village Board Meeting | October 21, 2025

The Manhattan Village Board on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, approved the annexation and preliminary plans for the 41-home Butternut Ridge South subdivision. The board also heard emotional public comments regarding traffic safety and the impacts of regional development, with residents expressing deep concern following a recent tragic car accident in the community. More detailed coverage of the new subdivision and the public’s concerns can be found in separate articles.

In other major actions, the board voted to ban the retail sale of kratom, an herbal substance with opioid-like effects, citing public health risks. The board also approved a multi-year increase in water and sewer rates to begin funding up to $50 million in future infrastructure projects, including a new wastewater plant.

Resident Raises Concerns Over “Safe Routes to School” Grant
A resident of the White Feather subdivision, Megan Miner, asked the board to reconsider its application for a “Safe Routes to School” state grant. She fears that if the grant is used to build a walking and biking path from her neighborhood to the middle and junior high schools, the school district will eliminate bus service for those students, citing a state rule that does not require transportation for students living within 1.5 miles of their school.

Village Hires Lobbying Firm to Monitor State Legislation
The board approved a contract with SAQ Consulting Inc. for $3,000 per month. The firm will monitor state legislation on issues impacting Manhattan, such as solar energy projects, data centers, and warehousing. Mayor Mike Adrieansen said the goal is to give the village a voice in Springfield before potentially unfavorable legislation is passed. The firm will also assist in seeking state and federal grants for public works projects.

“Parade of Lights” Approved for December 6
The board authorized the use of U.S. Route 52 and Manhattan-Monee Road for the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce’s annual “Parade of Lights.” The event is scheduled for Saturday, December 6, 2025, with road closures expected between 5:45 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

National Family Literacy Day Proclaimed
Mayor Mike Adrieansen issued a proclamation declaring November 1, 2025, as National Family Literacy Day in Manhattan. The day, which marks its 31st anniversary, highlights the importance of reading and learning for the entire family. The proclamation encourages residents to promote literacy by reading together as a family.

Fuel System to be Upgraded
The board approved a resolution to spend $36,975 for a complete upgrade of the village’s fuel farm system, which is used by the police, public works, and emergency management agency, as well as the Manhattan Fire Protection District. The current system is obsolete. The fire district is expected to contribute approximately $8,600 to offset the cost.

Repairs Approved for Historical Society Building
A contract for $24,900 was awarded to Unlimited Masonry & Construction for repairs to the village-owned building that houses the Historical Society and Chamber of Commerce at 245 & 255 S. State Street. The work will address a leaking second-story bay window and includes tuckpointing and acid washing the exterior brick.