The Manhattan City Commission approved an ordinance on first reading to set the budget for 2022, a budget that will see a 3.499 mill levy increase.
Mayor Wynn Butler noted the frustration he’s hearing from property owners as he provided the only “no” vote.
Commissioner Aaron Estabrook, though, made clear that he’s concerned with a lack of interest in dealing with current issues bedeviling city operations.
Commissioner Mark Hatesohl noted the bulk of that increase is the city’s share to fund the Riley County Police Department and Manhattan Public Library.
Usha Reddi noted the increase doesn’t fully meet what city staff had previously noted was necessary to restore some services cut previously.
A second reading to officially adopt the budget will take place September 21st.
