The Manhattan Village Board approved a major road resurfacing contract, implemented a local grocery tax to replace state funds, and hired a new full-time accountant during its meeting on Tuesday, August 5. The board also heard a request from a new local business for a gaming license.

The board awarded a $537,907.85 contract to D. Construction, Inc. for the Fiscal Year 2026 Motor Fuel Tax resurfacing project. The work will include milling, paving, and sidewalk repairs on several streets in the Hanover Estates subdivision, completing a multi-year effort to upgrade the neighborhood’s infrastructure.

Following a new state law, the board passed an ordinance to create a 1% local grocery tax, effective January 1, 2026. The measure replaces the state’s expiring 1% grocery tax, ensuring the village retains its current revenue without increasing the tax burden on consumers. Trustee Clint Boone voted against the ordinance.

To manage an increased workload from village growth, the board unanimously approved the hiring of Joseph Page as a new full-time accountant. Page comes to the village with a degree in accounting and two years of municipal finance experience. His annual salary will be $73,320.

The board also approved a comprehensive update to the village’s personnel manual. The new manual, the first major revision since 2018, consolidates previously approved policies on pay and benefits for part-time employees and introduces new guidelines on dress code, meal breaks, and social media.

Bills Approved: The Village Board approved the payment of bills from the August 2, 2025, list, totaling $2,043,528.19. Major expenses included large payments to contractors for various public works projects, health and dental insurance premiums, and payments for engineering services related to capital projects.

Gaming License Request: During public comment, Cheryl Wellman, owner of the new Peaceful Grounds Coffee Company, formally requested that the board consider granting her business a gaming license. She stated the additional revenue would be critical for the new business, which is located off the main thoroughfare of Route 52.

Truck Donation: Mayor Mike Adrieansen received informal approval from the board to donate a retired 2007 Ford F-150 village truck to Triple H Ranch, a local nonprofit organization. The donation is contingent upon legal review.

St. Joseph’s Church Update: Mayor Adrieansen announced that the Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board has donated $10,300 to cover the material costs for the new sprinkler system at St. Joseph’s Church, which is currently being rebuilt.

Project and Event Updates: Public works officials reported that the Park Street reconstruction project is progressing well and is anticipated to be completed within two weeks. The board also reminded residents of several upcoming community events, including the Comprehensive Plan Open House on August 7 and the annual Cruise Night on August 13.