The Village of Manhattan could soon get a new fast food restaurant if plans revealed at the most recent board meeting come to fruition.
Ampler Development signed a letter of intent to purchase and develop the village-owned property at the corner of Brookstone Drive and Route 52 in Manhattan for a Taco Bell restaurant.
Though the letter of intent is generally nonbinding, it signifies a step forward in the development process.
Mayor Mike Adrieansen said “in full transparency” that it looked like the developer wanted to move forward. Adrieansen said that provided site plans and other stipulations reviewed by Community Development Director Marc Nelson and the village attorney were proper, the project could get the green light.
A memo provided to board members outlined some of the key terms in the letter of intent, which included a $10,000 earnest-money deposit, a 90-day inspection period, a 270-day approvals period with up to two paid 30-day extensions and closing within 30 days after the approvals period.
The property, which is approximately 0.946 acres, could potentially be sold for $275,000, though that number is subject to change pending final negotiations and final village board approval. The village also retains termination rights if an acceptable plan isn’t proposed.
The village board unanimously approved a resolution authorizing a letter of intent for the sale at the Nov. 2 board meeting.
Other Manhattan News
The village issued a proclamation establishing Nov. 14 as Diabetes Awareness Day in the village. Resident Katie Becker spoke during public comment about her son’s journey with Type I diabetes after being diagnosed at just 3 years old. Becker operates a nonprofit called Carson’s Crew to raise awareness and funds to help find a cure.
The village also announced the winners of the annual Scarecrows on Parade scarecrow-decorating contest. The scarecrows have been on display in the Wabash parking lot for all to see. Athletic Physical Therapy took first place, winning a $250 Visa gift card, and Manhattan Family Chiropractic took second place, winning a $150 Visa gift card.
Clerk Rebecca Bouck reported 1,124 early voters came to the village to cast their vote in the midterm election.
Coming up, the village has two holiday events: pictures with Santa on Nov. 29 and the parade of lights on Dec. 5.