Manhattan Park District Proposes Tax Levy Increase; Public Hearing Set for December

Manhattan Park District Board Meeting | Nov. 2025

Article Summary: The Manhattan Park District Board of Commissioners approved a resolution determining the estimated tax levy for the 2025 tax year, proposing an aggregate increase that triggers a Truth in Taxation hearing. The district anticipates a total levy increase of approximately 9.34% over the previous year.

Tax Levy Key Points:

• Total Levy Increase: The estimated total property taxes to be levied are $2,439,628.30, a 9.34% increase from the 2024 extension.

• Public Hearing: Because the request exceeds 5% of the prior year’s extension, a public hearing is scheduled for December 18, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.

• Corporate/Special Funds: The proposed levy for corporate and special purpose taxes is approximately $2.02 million, representing a 5.95% increase.

• Debt Service: The estimated levy for debt service and public building commission leases shows a significant increase of 29.68%, totaling $413,583.50.

The Manhattan Park District Board of Commissioners on Thursday, November 13, 2025, moved forward with the annual property tax levy process by adopting Resolution 25-11. This resolution determines the amount of money estimated to be levied for the 2025 tax year, payable in 2026.

According to district documents, the total proposed property tax levy is $2,439,628.30. This figure represents a 9.34% increase over the total property taxes extended for the previous year, which were $2,231,065.29.

Under the Truth in Taxation Law, taxing bodies must hold a public hearing if their proposed aggregate levy exceeds 105% of the previous year’s extension. Consequently, the Board has scheduled a public hearing for December 18, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the Hansen Community Center.

The levy is broken down into two main components. The “capped” funds—corporate and special purpose taxes—are proposed at $2,026,044.80, which is a 5.95% increase over the prior year. The non-capped funds, which cover debt service and public building commission leases, are estimated at $413,583.50. This portion represents a 29.68% increase compared to the $318,906.00 extended in the previous year.

Executive Director Kelly presented the initial numbers to the board, noting that while estimates may change, they are typically accurate. Following the presentation, the board voted unanimously to approve the resolution and set the hearing date.