Meeting Summary and Briefs: Manhattan Park Board for February 12, 2026

Manhattan Park Board Meeting | February 12, 2026

The Manhattan Park Board held its regular meeting on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the Hansen Community Center. President Bridget Hope, Secretary Ed Ludwig, and Commissioner Nick Goodwin were present. Vice President Kristy Byers and Treasurer Joe Farkas were absent. President Hope opened the meeting by thanking staff for their efforts over the winter months and reading a thank-you card from the Coughlin Family regarding the Dr. Scott Dog Park. The board approved four bond tax abatement ordinances and authorized legal intervention for major property tax appeals before briefly entering a closed executive session. The meeting adjourned at 7:24 p.m.

Brief Title: December and January Treasurer’s Reports Approved
The board unanimously approved two months of financial expenditures during the meeting. Secretary Ed Ludwig motioned to approve the December 2025 Treasurer’s Report, which included the payment of bills totaling $486,685.42. Commissioner Nick Goodwin seconded, and the measure passed 3-0. Subsequently, Goodwin motioned to approve the January 2026 Treasurer’s Report, featuring $244,426.67 in bill payments, which was seconded by Ludwig and also passed 3-0.

Brief Title: Vandalism Repairs Conducted at District Parks
According to the February Parks and Operations Monthly Report, district maintenance staff were forced to address recent vandalism across multiple properties. At Central Park, staff had to replace a vandalized window on the South Pavilion outhouse. Additionally, at the Wauponsee Trail Pond, crews utilized a tractor and trailer to haul away a completely destroyed, vandalized wooden picnic table.

Brief Title: Resident Advocates for Community Skate Park
During the public comment portion of the meeting, Manhattan resident Brady Forsythe addressed the board regarding recreational facilities. Forsythe presented his thoughts to the commissioners detailing why a dedicated skate park would be an appreciated asset for both the Park District and the wider community. No formal action was taken by the board on the proposal during the meeting.