The Village of Manhattan’s August 19 board meeting was over in less than 10 minutes, but it did include the approval of declaring a 2007 Ford 150, previously used by both public works and EMA, as surplus property due to its high mileage.
At the last meeting, some discussion occurred regarding the old truck, and Public Works Supervisor John Tyk had informed the board it would likely only bring in about $1,500 at auction due to its age, condition, and high mileage.
Despite the lack of value, the truck still ran. The village board had discussed the possibility of donating the old truck, provided there were no legal issues, to HHH Ranch.
HHH Ranch is a 501(c)3 horse rescue and support services for those facing physical and mental challenges. The ranch is located in Manhattan.
HHH Ranch posted on its Facebook page in February that it needed a truck after its pickup stopped running. The ranch uses a pickup for various tasks on the property, as well as for trailering horses. The rescue often works with Will County Animal Control on abuse and neglect cases.
An informal straw poll at the last meeting indicated the board was in favor of donating the truck and, once legal cleared the donation, the village donated the truck to the ranch.
“How blessed are we?! Huge thank you to the Village of Manhattan for their donation! Feels so good to have reliable transportation again!!” the ranch posted on its Facebook page following the donation.
Outside of the donation, the board approved the past meeting minutes and bills to be paid.
Also of note, the police department’s monthly report noted a marked decrease in calls for service. Last year in July 2024, the village saw 138 more calls for service than July 2025. Overall, year-to-date, crime is down across the board. Noteworthy year-to-date increases were in ordinance violations and an increase in training hours.
Stephanie Irvine is a freelance reporter.