city of Manhattan
second QUARTER report April - June 2026
STORM DEBRIS CLEANUP AFTER the june 8 severe thunderstorm
SPRING STORMS SEVERE WEATHER Severe weather was a frequent challenge throughout the season Manhattan and the surrounding region experienced multiple watches and warnings for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, flooding, and damaging wind events from March through June. The season included an EF2 tornado on June 4 in northern Riley County, with maximum winds of 120 mph that damaged several buildings and destroyed one home near Randolph. Multiple rounds of heavy rainfall saturated the ground which contributed to flooding across Riley County and increased the damage impact of later storms.
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1 ef2 tornado
6 severe storms
4 tornado watches/warnings
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3 Flood Warnings
The most significant local damage occurred the evening of June 8, when 63 mph winds were recorded at Manhattan Regional Airport. Widespread tree damage, downed power lines, flooded roadways, and blocked streets affected neighborhoods across the community. Forestry, public works, utility, fire, emergency response, and other city crews worked through the night and throughout the following weeks to reopen roads, respond to hazards, support critical infrastructure, and assist with recovery after the storm.
than a month and concluded Friday, July 10. Crews collected and hauled more than 45,000 cubic yards of tree debris to the Riley County Transfer Station, where it was added to the burn pile.
At one point, more than 30 roads were blocked or partially obstructed by fallen trees and downed power lines.
Manhattan residents demonstrated patience, caution, resilience, and stepped up to care for their neighbors throughout the severe weather season and recovery efforts.
Citywide cleanup from the June 8 windstorm continued for more
The City is grateful for the dedication of the community,
employees, emergency responders, utility partners, and public safety personnel who worked long hours under difficult conditions.
Storm stats
160
emergency calls
45,000
cubic yards of debris
$500,ooo - $750,000 estimated cleanup costs
EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER An Emergency Operations Center, or EOC, is a central location where emergency responders, city staff, and partner agencies coordinate information, resources, and decisions in an emergency. During and after severe weather, the EOC helps the community respond more quickly and effectively by supporting field crews, monitoring changing conditions, sharing public updates, and helping prioritize needs.
Riley County 911 received more than 160 emergency calls during the eight-hour period following the June 8 storm. Manhattan Fire Department responded to more than 100 calls for service that night. 3
spring cleanup This annual program helps residents remove yard waste at the start of spring and keeps debris out of storm drains, supporting public infrastructure and local pride. Spring Cleanup 2026 helped Manhattan residents clear 252 tons of yard waste and debris from their properties. The annual effort is coordinated by the City of Manhattan in partnership with local refuse contractors, and provides free haul away for limbs, bagged leaves, and and yard waste resdients place at the curb. Four local trash haulers participated in this year’s event: B&L Trash Service, Joe W. Mallon Trash Service, Howie’s Trash Service, and Pick Pink. Rainy weather caused some delays during the scheduled cleanup week, but crews continued work as conditions allowed and completed the final neighborhood pickup on Monday, April 13.
Crews collected 403 loads of yard waste 252 tons of materials
total cost $118,495 including wages, equipment costs, diesel fuel, and related operating expenses 4
city staff summer interns The city hired nine paid interns this summer who served in the Public Works, Public Utilities, Parks and Recreation, Fire Services, and Human Resources Departments. Their work supported special projects as well as day-to-day operations.
Engineer of the year award Randy DeWitt, P.E., Director of Public Utilities, was honored with the 2026 Government Engineer of the Year Award from the Kansas Society of Professional Engineers (KSPE). KSPE presented the award during their annual conference, held in June. The Government Engineer of the Year award celebrates achievements in engineering, civic and humanitarian service, professional involvement, and educational accomplishment. DeWitt was recognized for his outstanding service and leadership in advancing water and wastewater infrastructure that serves thousands of Manhattan residents. His work supports reliable utility services and
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long-term planning that benefit the Manhattan community every day. “Randy’s leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to public service have made a lasting impact on our community,” said City Manager Danielle Dulin. “This recognition reflects not only his excellence as an engineer, but also his dedication to providing safe, dependable utility services for the residents of Manhattan. We are proud to see him honored by his peers across Kansas.”
Interns provide much-needed assistance while gaining practical experience in local government. Undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate students participated this summer. For students, the internships offer paid work experience and a chance to explore public service careers. Some interns are already planning to work in local government after graduation, while others are using the opportunity to learn whether public service is the right fit.
The City congratulates DeWitt on this well-deserved recognition and thanks him for his continued service to the Manhattan community.
seasonal workers
The City of Manhattan hired a total of 411 temporary, seasonal workers in the second quarter, compared to 210 in the first. These employees perform essential duties including day camp supervision, concessions sales, grounds and facilities maintenance, and serve as instructors for programs. 5
On the Big Screen team usa watch parties Manhattan Parks and Recreation hosted four World Cup watch parties this summer, creating memorable opportunities for community members to celebrate Team USA and connect over a worldwide event. The first watch party was held at Anneberg Park following a soccer tournament. The remaining three events took place at Blue Earth Plaza, including two additional Team USA matches and the World Cup Final. Food and drink vendors helped create a festive, family-friendly atmosphere at each event. The strong attendance and enthusiastic crowds highlighted the community’s passion for soccer and made the watch parties a successful addition to this summer’s programming.
Movies in the Park Neighbors were also invited to attend three, free outdoor movie nights at City Park and Blue Earth Plaza this season. Using the city’s new portable big screen, the events brought people together for family-friendly entertainment, with local food trucks and drink vendors adding to the experience. Movies were selected to complement and promote Parks and Recreation divisions, including Sunset Zoo and the Flint Hills Discovery Center.
1000+
people attended team usa watch parties & movies in the park
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Warner memorial Park
The City of Manhattan finished the Warner Memorial Park Trailhead and Loop project, bringing improved trail connectivity to one of the community’s key natural area parks. A new pedestrian bridge over the ravine in the middle of the park is the project’s signature feature, allowing visitors to complete a connected loop trail while preserving the park’s natural character. The improvement was identified in the Warner Memorial Park Master Plan approved by the Manhattan City Commission in 2019. The project received a $97,200 Recreational Trails Program grant in 2023, administered by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks using Federal Highway Administration funding, with remaining costs covered by the City’s Recreation and Trails Fund. Supported by the Quality of Life sales tax approved by Manhattan voters in 2017, that local funding has helped Manhattan Parks and Recreation secure $639,182 in grant funding for trails since the sales tax was approved, with nearly $3 million in total trail investment expected by the time the sales tax sunsets. 7
waterparks and pools lifeguards make pool season possible lifeguard of the week awards
OPENING DAY
Manhattan’s three waterparks were in good hands this summer thanks to a strong team of dedicated lifeguards. Each lifeguard completes extensive preparation and training before and during the season. New lifeguards receive approximately 32 hours of Red Cross certification training, while returning lifeguards complete about 11.5 hours of Red Cross training. All staff also participate in a facility training day and continue building their skills through weekly in-service training throughout the season.
To recognize outstanding service, the aquatics team also launched a Lifeguard of the Week program. Head guards nominate lifeguards from their teams based on qualities such as work ethic, attitude, flexibility, and overall leadership.
Beyond the certifications and training hours, lifeguarding requires focus, teamwork, patience, and the ability to respond quickly when needed. The City’s lifeguards bring those qualities to work every day while helping create a safe and welcoming experience for waterpark guests.
lifeguards hired for 2026: 108 returning from previous years: 81 8
Waterparks opened for the season on Saturday, May 23 ready to serve thousands of guests, teach swim lessons, and host events.
Turning Recycled Materials into a Pool-Filling Solution The aquatics team built a custom machine to help fill the pools at the start of the season. Using recycled materials from across City departments, including a broken lift, the end of a retired fire hydrant, and scrap pipe and metal, they were able to maximize resources, improve productivity, and support services.
juneteenth celebration
The Manhattan Juneteenth Committee continued its more than 30-year tradition of bringing the community together through education, culture, and celebration. The 2026 Manhattan Juneteenth Celebration, themed “One Community, Shared Freedom,” recognized both the 250th anniversary of the United States, and 160 years since the first Juneteenth celebration. “For those who do not know Juneteenth, it is short for June 19th, when Union Major General Gordon Granger announced to enslaved people in Galveston, Texas they were free. The date was June 19, 1865, with the first celebration taking place in 1866 which marks 160 years of freedom,” explained Manhattan Juneteenth Committee member Dr. Zelia Wiley, PhD. Held June 18-20, the Manhattan celebration included a reception for Party Train at the historic Douglass Center, the annual BBQ Tasters event, live music, the mayor’s proclamation, a community walk, children’s activities, vendors, dancing, and aerobics. “Our annual Saturday events kept us celebrating with MC Betti O. keeping us on schedule with the
mayor’s proclamation, singing of both anthems, the community walk, with the Juneteenth kiddie train, followed by health, educational, and food vendors, dances, and aerobics. As the MC said it best, it is all about “Community” involving food, music, and fun!” said Dr. Wiley. A special art experience by Daisha Maria-Breona honored the Yuma Street Cultural Center and Entrepreneur Hub, and reflected on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1968 visit to Manhattan. Despite rainy weather, the event celebrated shared freedom, culture, and community. This event is routinely recognized as the No. 1 Juneteenth celebration in Kansas by the Kansas Juneteenth Statewide Committee. The committee is now working to plan events for 2027.
MURAL DESIGNED BY LOCAL ARTIST:
CIERRA MARRERO
Photos provided by the Manhattan Juneteenth Committee
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THIRD THURSDAYS
COMMUNITY OUTREACH This season, the City of Manhattan was excited to participate for the first time in Downtown Manhattan, Inc’s monthly Third Thursday celebrations. Third Thursdays offered a great opportunity to connect with residents in a fun, casual setting. Each month, different City departments joined the event to share information about their work, answer questions, and help community members learn more about City services and functions. Staff enjoyed visiting with friends, neighbors, families, and downtown visitors while creating a positive and welcoming City presence at each event. Activities for kids were always part of the fun. During the City’s celebration of National Public Works and Utilities Week, visitors hunted for ninja turtles in the local storm sewer, explored heavy equipment, made crafts, and learned more about the important work Public Works and Utilities crews do every day to keep Manhattan running safely and smoothly. The City appreciates Downtown Manhattan, Inc. for hosting Third Thursdays and creating a space where residents, artists, businesses, and community organizations can come together. We are also grateful to the City staff who helped make each event possible. 10
THIRD THURSDAY EVENTS bring the community together to enjoy visual and performing arts, live music, creative activities, and the unique energy that makes Manhattan such a special place.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by to visit with us. We had a great time being part of Third Thursdays and look forward to seeing you all season!
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fire department Manhattan Firefighters Recognized for Life-Saving Actions Mayor Susan Adamchak recognized Captain Kyle Voth, Driver AJ Brinkman, Driver Cole Hiatt, and Firefighter Mason Herzog of the Manhattan Fire Department for their life-saving response to a residential structure fire in the early morning hours of April 14, 2026. Crews arrived the Pierre Street home to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the second floor, with one occupant still trapped inside. With conditions rapidly deteriorating, Voth, Brinkman, and Herzog advanced up the stairs of the building into intense heat and dense smoke, using a hose line to hold back the fire as they searched for the victim.
Their training, composure and determination enabled them to quickly locate the unconscious occupant and bring that person safely downstairs.
photo from Pierre St. fire
Once outside, Manhattan Fire Department personnel worked alongside Riley County EMS to provide immediate life-saving care. The victim survived and has since made a full recovery. Mayor Adamchak commended the firefighters for their courage, skill, and teamwork, noting that their actions reflected the very best of the Manhattan Fire Department and its daily commitment to protecting the lives and safety of Manhattan residents.
From left: Hyatt, Brinkman, Herzog, and Voth
hosting the kansas firefighters association annual conference Firefighters from across Kansas gathered in Manhattan for the 2026 Kansas State Firefighters Association Annual Conference, which took place April 9–12 at the Hilton Garden Inn. The conference provides an opportunity for professional development, training, and networking among members of the fire service.
Governor Laura Kelly visited to share a message of welcome during the KSFFA Conference opening ceremony. 12
Special thanks go to Captain Tyler Budke and the Manhattan Firefighter Relief Association Board for their work in organizing the conference and welcoming guests.
FIREFIGHTER TRAINING Firefighter training is a critical part of serving the Manhattan community safely and effectively Training topics this season have included live fire evolutions, forcible entry, vehicle extrication, active violence response, search and rescue, and other core emergency response skills. Each exercise is designed to help recruits and firefighters understand how to make quick decisions,
use equipment properly, communicate clearly, and protect both the public and fellow responders during highpressure situations when seconds matter. From June 3-5, the Manhattan Fire Department conducted training alongside Riley County EMS, Riley County Fire District #1, Manhattan-Ogden USD 383, and other response partners. This type of collaborative training helps ensure agencies are prepared to work together and supports the department’s ongoing commitment to public safety.
agencies collaborate to extinguish fire at k-state dairy unit Early on June 17, Riley County Fire District #1 and the Manhattan Fire Department responded to a structure fire near the Kansas State University Dairy Unit, north of the KState campus. Emergency crews were dispatched at 4:05 a.m. after a passerby reported the fire to 911. Firefighters arrived to find heavy flames coming from several storage buildings. A total of 42 units responded, including volunteer firefighters and personnel from Riley County Fire District #1, Manhattan Fire Department, Kansas State University Police Department, and Riley County Emergency Medical Services. No people or animals were injured, though several storage buildings and their contents were destroyed. The Kansas State Fire Marshal and Kansas State University Fire Marshal
responded to investigate the cause. The incident demonstrated the importance of strong regional partnerships in protecting life, property, and critical community assets. Manhattan Fire Department personnel worked alongside Riley County volunteers, emergency medical services, law enforcement, and K-State staff to control the fire, support mopup operations, and reduce the risk of embers spreading during high winds. While the Manhattan Fire Department cleared the scene later that morning, Riley County Fire District #1 personnel and volunteers remained to fully extinguish smoldering grain and feed storage bins. The coordinated response highlights the value of mutual aid, preparedness, and continued investment in emergency services that serve Manhattan and the surrounding region.
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community collaboration
On May 1, the Kappa Pi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority at Kansas State University marked the 50th Charter Day Celebration with a park cleanup and dedication event at Sojourner Truth Park. For the past 10 years, the chapter has partnered with the City of Manhattan to adopt the park, showing their dedication through regular cleanups and tree planting efforts that help keep this space welcoming and beautiful. Nearly 50 volunteers took part in the event, removing more than 30 bags of trash and debris from the park and surrounding area. We’re grateful for this longstanding partnership and the care the chapter continues to show for Sojourner Truth Park and the Manhattan community. 14