Economic Recovery & Relief 2023 Sales Tax

On November 3,  2020, 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.

The sales tax took effect on January 1, 2023 and will remain in effect for 10 years. The City-wide 0.5% sales tax  coincided with the expiration of a 0.5% Riley County Sales that sunset on December 31, 2022. The new 0.5% city sales tax is levied within the entire city limits of Manhattan, including those portions of the City within Pottawatomie County.

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Purpose of Economic Recovery & Relief Sales Tax

Sales tax proceeds are used for following purposes based upon the language defined in the resolution and special question:

  • Reducing the ad valorem property tax burden on City taxpayers
  • Stimulating the economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic
  • Paying for public infrastructure projects related to quality of life and economic development
  • Economic development initiatives intended to recruit, retain and grow jobs
  • Workforce housing initiatives

How would the tax revenue be spent?

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Debt Repayment

An estimated $45.5 million generated over 10 years, a portion of which could be devoted to the City's Bond and Interest Fund to pay down debt, in particular, debt associated with the Aggieville and North Campus Corridor projects. 

Infrastructure Projects

Infrastructure projects and improvements would be focused on areas to help the community prosper - more jobs, more opportunities for commerce and businesses to flourish, and creating a more inviting and appealing environment for all. 

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Economic Development

Twenty percent of the sales tax revenue — estimated at $13 million over the 10 year period — is dedicated to job creation. This would include recruitment, retention, and expansion of businesses in Manhattan.

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Workforce Housing

$6.5 million generated over ten years towards workforce housing initiatives. Without housing options, it will be difficult to recruit and retain talent for new businesses. 

Ballot Question

City Commission Resolution

On August 18, 2020, the City Commission passed Resolution Number 081820-E (PDF) calling for a special question for a 10-year, 0.5% sales tax to be placed on the November 3, 2020, general election ballot for the City of Manhattan. The sales tax passed by the voters of Manhattan, and went into effect January 1, 2023. This coincided with the expiration of a Riley County 0.5% Economic Development/Road & Bridges Sales Tax passed in 2012.