A third candidate has officially filed for the Manhattan City Commission election this fall.
Peter Oppelt announced his candidacy Friday. The 35-year-old received his bachelor’s degree in Economics from Kansas State University, after serving eight years in the U.S. Army.
In an emailed statement to KMAN, Oppelt says he’s running because he thinks he can bring a newer perspective to the commission, saying Manhattan is primed for growth, and he wants to ensure that the commission plans responsibly for that growth. As a parent, Oppelt says he also wants to ensure that the programs families depend on like parks and rec are the best that they can be.
According to his LinkedIn page, Oppelt is employed with Travelers Insurance. Prior experience included work with a data platform company, as well as the Kansas Department of Agriculture and Kansas Department of Revenue.
Oppelt joins Rafael Rodriguez and incumbent John Matta as the three candidates to officially file. Mayor Mark Hatesohl has announced he will run again, but has yet to file. The filing deadline is June 1.
Four seats are vacant on the Nov. 7 ballot. The top two candidates receiving the most votes will earn a four year term. Third and fourth place candidates will each receive a two-year term.
