Township Reviews Tax Levies; Bridge Construction Costs Rise

Manhattan Township Board Meeting | November 11, 2025

Article Summary: The Manhattan Township Board reviewed tentative tax levies for the upcoming year, with the Road District facing increased costs due to bridge construction projects.

Manhattan Township Finance Key Points:

• Township Levy: Supervisor Jim Walsh proposed a levy 3.5% higher than the previous year, citing increases in audit and administration funds.

• Bridge Funding Gap: The bid for the Kankakee Street Bridge replacement came in at $1.4 million, exceeding the $1.2 million in secured funding.

• Construction Update: The Baker Road Bridge project was completed ahead of schedule on October 31, 2025.

The Manhattan Township Board on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, discussed the financial outlook for the coming year, focusing on the annual tax levies and infrastructure funding.

Supervisor Jim Walsh presented the tentative Township Levy, noting it is currently 3.5% higher than the previous year’s version. Walsh attributed the potential increase to the audit fund and administration costs but told the board he intends to review the figures to identify possible reductions before finalization.

Highway Commissioner Jim Baltas presented the tentative Road District Levy. While the majority of the levy remains consistent with last year, Baltas highlighted significant cost increases related to bridge construction.

The Road District is preparing to replace the Kankakee Street Bridge beginning April 1, 2026. Baltas reported that while he has secured $1.2 million in funding from the state and county, the project bid came in at $1.4 million. Additionally, contractual services costs are rising because Will County imposes a 10% fee to oversee the bridge construction. Currently, the Road District has approximately $245,000 in funding allocated for the bridge.

In positive infrastructure news, Baltas reported that the Baker Road Bridge Project was completed one day ahead of schedule on October 31, 2025. The district also expects to take possession of a new truck soon.