The Village of Manhattan took a moment to celebrate the birthday of one of its newly minted centenarians, Ruth Mundt, who celebrated her 100th birthday on May 31.
The board recognized Mundt during the board meeting on June 3, acknowledging her many contributions to the community through the Manhattan-Elwood Public Library as a librarian, as well as Manhattan’s Garden Club, the Manhattan Homemakers, and St. Paul’s Church.
“I just want to say I moved to Manhattan 76 years ago, and the population was 700. I lived in my home for 73 years and, as you said, I worked in all these different places and raised four sons here. It has been a wonderful place to raise a family,” Mundt said before thanking the board.
The Manhattan Township Historical Society also celebrated Mundt online and in person, noting how her volunteer work had helped beautify the community, specifically through her work in the Garden Club. They presented her with a certificate of recognition for her numerous contributions to Manhattan’s history through her community volunteerism.
New Chairperson Appointed
Following the removal of Bill Borgo from the Plan Commission at the May 22 meeting, the board moved to appoint a new chairperson to lead the commission. The board unanimously voted to place Kelly Gibbons as chairperson. Gibbons was already on the plan commission and will take over the leadership role.
Subdivision Letters of Credit
Dealing with subdivision letters of credit was one of the only items of business for the brief board meeting. Stonegate subdivision saw its letter of credit released. The village requires a letter of credit from new subdivision developers, which guarantees the agreed-upon public improvements will be completed as specified. Stonegate’s improvements have been completed and inspected by the village’s engineer, who recommended the board approve the release.
Trustee Justin Young inquired if Stonegate Park was completed, to which Community Development Director Marc Nelson advised that it was. The board unanimously approved the release.
The Benck’s Farm/Prairie Trails Villas subdivision did not provide renewed letters of credit; however, the bank advised they would be reissued and formally approved at a committee meeting, which Nelson stated had taken place earlier that day but had not been finalized. Nelson recommended the board act on the letters of credit and, once the village receives signed copies, they can rescind the draw.
Summer Events Coming Up
The board reported on several community events coming up, including the return of the village’s cruise nights, which will begin on June 11 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., weather permitting.
Community garage sales will take place June 13 and 14. Also on June 14, the Manhattan Park District Heritage Fest and Chamber Craft Fair will take place. The Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run also is coming up on June 16, and the Manhattan Police Department is selling merchandise to support the cause.
Stephanie Irvine is a freelance reporter.