Manhattan’s last board meeting with Trustees Dave Beemsterboer and Ron Adamski and Clerk Shelly Lewis was lengthy but covered a lot of business before a tearful goodbye.
Budget Passed with Two Nays
A budget hearing was held in lieu of enacting an appropriation ordinance. No one from the public spoke during the public hearing, but Trustee Dave Beemsterboer expressed his dissent. Beemsterboer stated he didn’t feel the budget could be passed while accounting issues resulting from a software change were still being worked out.
He noted that a budget amendment would have to be passed later to address any discrepancies, which Mayor Mike Adrieansen agreed. Bob Dilling also voted no to the budget. Finance Director Justin VanVooren did not comment but advised he was available if anyone had questions.
Dr. Scott Dog Park Donation Checks Presented
Kate Gooding, a lifelong Manhattan resident, presented a check to the Village of Manhattan for the dog park, which has been named on behalf of her late husband, Dr. Scott Becker, a veterinarian who died suddenly in 2020.
“This park stands as a testament to Dr. Scott’s enduring legacy celebrating his love for animals and his commitment to their well-being,” Gooding said
“We’re excited to welcome a long-awaited dog park for the residents of Manhattan, where Dr. Scott’s spirit will continue to echo through the joyful barks and wagging tales of the cherished future home of Dr. Scott Park, a Manhattan community dog park,” Gooding added.
Bridget Forsythe, president of the Manhattan Park Board, shared some words and noted the community had long wanted a dog park. A Metra representative also spoke (the park will be located on Metra property through an intergovernmental agreement).
Grand Prairie Animal Hospital’s Dr. James McMahon also was present. His animal hospital is a part sponsor of the park.
Additionally, a $50,000 check was presented to the village from EarthRise Energy, which has a natural gas peaker plant on the south end of town. Development Manager Rob Kalbouss and Community Engagement Director Talya Tavor both spoke, expressing gratitude for being part of the park and community and excitement for the park’s opening.
Police Department Adopts Caring Hands Program
Police Chief Ryan Gulli advised the department has adopted the Caring Hands program, a voluntary registry that gives first responders information about a person’s medical conditions or special needs. Individuals fill out a form, and the information is provided to dispatchers and first responders in advance of their response, if they are called out.
People can give helpful information, such as whether an individual has dementia, sensory and medical issues, or psychological conditions, along with methods of communication, approach, and de-escalation techniques.
Public Works Updates
The village board passed improvements to purchase a wastewater treatment valve automation system, which was accounted for in the budget. Tri-R Systems, Inc., was awarded the bid for $70,000.
South Park Street roadway construction from North to First Streets was awarded to PT Ferro, the lowest bidder. Construction will be paid for through a Rebuild Illinois infrastructure grant.
Lights have been completed along Kankakee Street at Baker Road.
Trustee Justin Young inquired if the Foxford subdivision street light resident Tim Murphy had inquired about at the March 22 meeting had been fixed. Public Works foreman Jim Bennett, who attended the meeting for Supervisor John Tyk, advised that it had.
Dilling inquired about Eastern Avenue; Bennett and engineer Carrie Pintar advised they are aware of its condition and are working to fix it as best they can while culvert construction progresses.
Bid advertisement publications for Front Street water main improvements, Rt. 52 and Gougar Road sewer and water main extension, and the Manhattan Road water main improvement projects are in progress.
Clerk, Trustees Bid Board Farewell
Many kind words were shared by the board, staff, and attorney about the service of outgoing trustees Dave Beemsterboer and Ron Adamski, as well as Clerk Shelly Lewis. Lewis will remain employed by the village as the Executive Administrative Assistant.
A tearful Beemsterboer reflected on his 26 years in office, his tenure as a trustee, accomplishments, and pride in his work. He thanked the board and Mayor Adrieansen and called for people to unite after a divisive election.
Stephanie Irvine is a freelance reporter.