On November 3, Manhattan voters passed a ballot measure to adopt a 0.5% Economic Recovery and Relief sales tax.
Riley County’s unofficial final report indicates 11,314 (YES) Manhattan residents for and 7,319 (NO) voted against the measure.
“It was important to ask the tax question early in order to allow for more opportunity to help with pandemic recovery initiatives. This frees up previously pledged funds to be held in reserve to pay future financing obligations on substantial infrastructure and economic development related projects.” said City Manager Ron Fehr. “Seeking responses by our local citizens in a high voter turnout election was very important. We look forward to working with the community and our community partners moving forward.”
The sales tax will take effect on January 1, 2023 and remain in effect for 10 years. The new City-wide 0.5% sales tax is anticipated to coincide with the expiration of 0.5% Riley County Sales that will sunset on December 31, 2022. The new 0.5% city sales tax will be levied within the entire city limits of Manhattan, including those portions of the City within Pottawatomie County.