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Manhattan Board Finalizes Round Barn Annexation, Sets New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

December 22, 2025/
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Manhattan Village Board Meeting | December 16, 2025

Article Summary: The Manhattan Village Board on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, approved minutes formalizing the annexation of the Manhattan Park District’s Round Barn property. Officials also invited the community to attend a family-friendly “Irish Ball Drop” scheduled for New Year’s Eve.

Round Barn Annexation Key Points:

  • Annexation Area: The agreement covers the entire 90-acre Round Barn Farm Park property.

  • Restoration Progress: Park District officials reported that the barn restoration is nearly complete, with plans to convert the space into an event venue.

  • New Year’s Celebration: The village will host a ball drop for children at 6 p.m. on Dec. 31.

The Manhattan Village Board on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, took the final procedural steps to annex the historic Round Barn property into the village boundaries by approving minutes from its Dec. 2 public hearing and action. The move solidifies a partnership between the Village and the Manhattan Park District.

Jay Kelly, representing the Manhattan Park District, previously clarified that the annexation covers the entire 90-acre property located at 5154 W. Main St. Kelly informed the board that the restoration of the iconic barn is nearly finished. The next phase of the project involves converting the structure into a banquet and event facility.

Trustees expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting the community warmth displayed during recent holiday events. Trustee Clint Boone highlighted the success of the recent “Christmas on State” festivities and looked ahead to the upcoming New Year’s celebration.

“We always look forward to the Irish ball drop at 6 [p.m.] for the kids,” Boone said. Mayor Mike Adrieansen confirmed the event will take place on New Year’s Eve, providing a family-friendly alternative to late-night celebrations.

The board also approved a special use permit for the event facility during its Dec. 2 session, which was formally entered into the records during Tuesday’s meeting.

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