12.17.24 City Commission Meeting Highlights
On December 17, 2024, the Manhattan City Commission addressed two key agenda items: the first reading of the Parks and Recreation’s cost recovery initiative for city recreation centers, and a public hearing on redevelopment incentives for the Commerce Bank building on Poyntz Avenue. Both measures were approved by 3-2 votes. The next City Commission meeting is scheduled for January 7, 2025, where discussions on rezoning and other critical topics will continue.
Parks and Recreation Cost Recovery Initiative
Outcome: Approved 3-2, granting Parks and Recreation the authority to implement price hikes and admission fees for city recreation centers without consulting the Commission.
The Commissioners acknowledged that they received many emails regarding this issue. The Parks and Recreation Department presented their case for a second time, emphasizing the need for revenue to sustain operations. Proposed changes included:
A $10 monthly membership fee and a $3 drop-in fee for recreation center access
A $3 increase for Sunset Zoo admission.
A $6 fee for pool admission.
Public Feedback:
During public comments, at least 11 citizens voiced concerns about the implementation of pricing at the Anthony and Douglas Recreation Centers. Many criticized the city for breaking promises made during the 2017 Vote Yes campaign, which raised sales taxes to fund the recreation centers with the understanding they would offer free admission. Suggestions included implementing sliding scale fees, preserving free public access, and avoiding measures that deter community engagement.
Comments made in support of the initiative came from the Director of the Manhattan Parks and Recreation Foundation and a representative from the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, who argued that fee adjustments were necessary for financial sustainability.
Votes Against:
Commissioner Oppelt: Raised concerns about breaking promises made during the 2017 campaign.
Commissioner McCullough: Highlighted the potential disproportionate impact on lower-income residents, particularly in underserved neighborhoods like Northview. She also emphasized the importance of maintaining community trust and subsidizing recreation programs.
Votes In Favor:
Mayor Adamchak: Supported the changes, citing fiscal responsibility and efforts to reduce costs and improve efficiencies.
Commissioner Matta: Stated that the fee increases were inevitable, urging the city to “bite the bullet” and prepare for public reaction.
Commissioner Minton: Echoed Matta’s support for fiscal sustainability and community cost-sharing.
Commerce Bank Building Redevelopment Incentives
Outcome: Approved 3-2, authorizing tax incentives for Hartford LLC to redevelop the Commerce Bank building at 727 Poyntz Avenue.
Hartford LLC requested:
Up to $15 million in Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRBs).
A 10-year property tax abatement of ~$2 million, scaling with their ability to keep retail spaces occupied.
A sales tax exemption of $549,000 for construction materials delivered to Kansas.
A 50/50 cost split for public street improvements, with the city covering $162,500.
The proposed project involves demolishing the existing building and constructing a mixed-use development with:
6,685 square feet of ground-floor retail space.
54 residential units (studios, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom apartments) above the retail space.
Public Feedback:
At least 15 citizens expressed concerns about the project’s design and the use of tax incentives. Key issues included historic preservation, neighborhood quality of life, and broader community benefits. A member of the Beyond Tomorrow Downtown Planning Committee criticized the project as a selective misrepresentation of the committee’s recommendations. While the Historic Resources Board (HRB) lacks authority over this matter, several citizens called for their input. Only one citizen, the President of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, expressed support for the project.
Votes Against:
Commissioner Oppelt: Questioned the effectiveness of tax incentives in addressing the city’s housing shortage.
Commissioner McCullough: Criticized the lack of focus on sustainable energy and affordable workforce housing.
Votes In Favor:
Mayor Adamchak: Argued that the project would stimulate economic growth.
Commissioner Matta: Stressed the importance of investing in redevelopment to ensure long-term returns.
Commissioner Minton: Highlighted the potential for increased property values and downtown revitalization.