Manhattan Park Board Meeting | October 9, 2025

The Manhattan Park Board on Thursday, October 9, 2025, unanimously rejected a proposal for a conceptual site plan after developers declined to share in the planning costs, effectively putting a pause on the project. The board also discussed the growing demand for pickleball and considered options for court expansion at Round Barn Farm, a decision that was ultimately deferred to the next budget cycle. For more details on these actions, please see the full articles.

In other business, the board received a clean annual financial audit for the fiscal year ending April 30, 2025. Commissioners also approved a series of new management job descriptions effective in 2026 and were updated on programs by the Lincolnway Special Recreation Association.

News Briefs

District Receives Clean Financial Audit:
Jasleen Kaur from the accounting firm Lauterbach & Amen presented the 2024/2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report to the board. Following the presentation, the board voted 4-0 to approve both the audit report and the Annual Treasurer’s Report for the fiscal year that ended on April 30, 2025. Executive Director Kelly also thanked Business Operations Supervisor Lacinda Shawver for her successful work on the audit.

Round Barn Farm Sees Numerous Upgrades:
A monthly operations report detailed extensive recent work at Round Barn Farm. Projects included the installation of new disc golf pads and baskets, the ongoing installation of a cedar split rail fence, tree trimming, and the removal of old doors on the blacksmith building. Safety upgrades, such as new fire extinguishers and flammable storage cabinets, were also completed.

Holiday Event Dates Announced:
The park district has scheduled its popular fall and winter community events. The Trick or Treat Trail at Round Barn Farm will be held on October 25 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Winter Fest is scheduled for December 5 at Round Barn Farm, and Breakfast with Santa will take place on December 6 at the Hansen Community Center.

Initial 2025 Tax Levy Numbers Presented:
Executive Director Kelly presented a preliminary overview of the 2025 tax levy. He informed the board that while the initial numbers provide a good estimate, they are subject to change as the budget process continues.

Girl Scouts Donate Bat and Bird Houses:
Park staff recently installed bat boxes at Central Park and Round Barn Farm, along with a bird house at Central Park. According to minutes from the September 11 meeting, the items were built and donated by Girl Scout Troop 75749 as part of a project to earn a badge.