The Village of Manhattan adopted its new comprehensive land use plan at the September 2 meeting, giving village officials a framework for future development and land use within the village’s limits.
“The comp plan is a document to guide the land use development and growth for the next 20 years,” Mayor Mike Adrieansen explained, noting both residents and officials, including a unanimous recommendation by the planning and zoning commission, had input on the plan.
The final plan included an “action matrix” that identified needs and a list of implementation strategies. The items on the list were prioritized as ongoing, short-term (less than three years), mid-term (three-to-five years), and long-term (more than five years).
Many of the short-term goals focused on housing, particularly for seniors, addressing gaps in the housing market, prioritizing vacant land, enhancing infrastructure, and utilizing the Downtown Manhattan Redevelopment Master Plan, among other objectives.
In other land use business, Jim Wandersee requested a subdivision of a 6.55 acre lot into two lots at the northeast corner of Smith and Kankakee Roads. Although it is outside of the village limits, it is located within a mile and a half of the village and, as such, its approval was required, which the board gave unanimously.
The board also approved the purchase of two school zone flashing beacons that will be installed on Rt. 52 near St. Joseph School. The Mayor’s Caucus and ComEd awarded a 50/50 grant for the purchase of the beacons. The lowest bid for the signs came in at $8,494.78 from TAPCO. The village would pay $4,247.39 for its share of the beacon cost.
“Normally, we have to get permission from IDOT for anything on Rt. 52. These signs, do they have to get approved by IDOT, or can we put them up?” Trustee Bob Dilling asked, noting he felt they were needed.
Public Works Supervisor John Tyk said they would replace the existing signs. Police Chief Ryan Gulli added they looked into that prior to applying for the grant, and it wouldn’t require additional permitting since it just was replacing existing signs.
“I’m all for it. It’s a hazard when they’re trying to get out,” Dilling added.
Manhattan is going teal and purple in September, with an official proclamation that September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in Manhattan. The board approved the proclamation.
“I encourage all residents to take time to check in with their family, friends, and neighbors on a regular basis and to honestly communicate their appreciation for their existence by any gesture they deem appropriate. A simple phone call, message, handshake, or a hug can go a long way towards helping someone realize suicide is not the answer,” Adrieansen read from the proclamation.
Manhattan resident Shelly Lewis spoke at the meeting and shared the story of her son, Jackson, who died by suicide on June 28, 2020. Lewis also shared striking current mental health statistics about Manhattan.
“Since January of this year, Manhattan has already lost two lives to suicide. We’ve also had 17 documented cases of suicide ideation attempts and 17 calls related to mental health crisises. These numbers are sobering, and they highlight the urgent need for awareness, compassion, and action,” Lewis stated.
Additionally, Lewis shared resources, such as counseling, 9-8-8 suicide and crisis lifeline, and being kind to one another. She also provided teal and purple ribbons, which signify Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, that can be tied around parkway trees to show support.
Before the meeting concluded, Adrieansen addressed a public comment made by Erica Aultz regarding concerns about abrupt road closures, which occurred during the Labor Day Parade with EMA. Adrieansen explained there was a miscommunication, and they’ll work to make sure that doesn’t happen in the future.
Police Chief Ryan Gulli also offered an apology to Brookstone subdivision residents who weren’t allowed access. He advised he will work to ensure that doesn’t happen again and took responsibility for the issue.
Adrieansen also reported the police department will receive a $50,000 grant from Will County Opioid Applications for the purchase of video cameras, enhancing security, and public safety. Gulli extended his appreciation to the finance department for assembling the data and information required to apply for the grant.
Eastern Avenue is moving forward with equipment now on site. It is anticipated to be completed by November.
Stephanie Irvine is a freelance reporter.