Candidates were asked to limit their responses to each of the following questions to 200 words or less.&nbsp;

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark Hatesohl AGE:&nbsp; &nbsp;62 OCCUPATION:&nbsp; &nbsp;Doctor of Chiropractic INCUMBENT: yes, current Mayor COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:&nbsp; &nbsp; 10 Years on the City Commission,&nbsp; A Founder and Past-President of the Guardians, 20 years of leadership at my church,&nbsp;Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program graduate, for Chamber of Commerce Military relations committee chairman.

-Why have you decided to run for a position on the City Commission?&nbsp;If you are an incumbent, why did you decide to run for re-election?

I am running again for the Commission because the community will prosper under reasonable forward-looking policies and leadership.&nbsp; I have been a voice for&nbsp;economic development and enhancing the environment for small business growth.

-What experience/background do you have that would make you a good city commissioner?&nbsp;If you are an incumbent, what experience/background has made you a good city commissioner?&nbsp;&nbsp;

My experience in teaching patients every day has provided me with the ability to explain complicated issues in ways that are understandable by everyone.&nbsp; My 39 years in the community has given me a vast knowledge&nbsp;of the city and a history of what works and what has been tried over the&nbsp;years.

-What are the top three issues you believe the city will face&nbsp;during your term, if elected/re-elected?&nbsp;

Slow growth of the tax base has been an ongoing issue.&nbsp; We need more businesses and people to share in the tax load.

Housing for all economic levels-shortage of buildable land in the city is a major problem, we have to pursue Neighborhood revitalization programs and infill housing

Childcare supply and affordability - we need more people to fill jobs and we need to figure out childcare to allow those people to be available for employment&nbsp;

-What is the number one issue you plan to tackle, if&nbsp;elected/re-elected?&nbsp;

Work with Public Works to address the poor lifespan of our city streets.&nbsp; We need a new formulation for concrete or thicker asphalt.&nbsp; We have to have more resilient streets.&nbsp;

-Is there something you would like to see change about any city ordinance or program?&nbsp;

Nothing obvious, but we need to figure out if there are ordinances or regulations which don't make sense any longer or are more burdensome than helpful.&nbsp; Unnecessary regulations only drive up the cost without any associated benefit.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698069895206.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Candidates were asked to limit their responses to each of the following questions to 200 words or less.&nbsp;NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Mark Hatesohl AGE:&nbsp; &nbsp;62 OCCUPATION:&nbsp; &nbsp;Doctor of Chiropractic INCUMBENT: yes, current Mayor COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:&nbsp; &nbsp; 10 Years on the City Commission,&nbsp; A Founder and Past-President of the Guardians, 20 years of leadership at my church,&nbsp;Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program graduate, for Chamber of Commerce Military relations committee chairman.-Why have you decided to run for a position on the City Commission?&nbsp;If you are an incumbent, why did you decide to run for re-election?I am running again for the Commission because the community will prosper under reasonable forward-looking policies and leadership.&nbsp; I have been a voice for&nbsp;economic development and enhancing the environment for small business growth.-What experience/background do you have that would make you a good city commissioner?&nbsp;If you are an incumbent, what experience/background has made you a good city commissioner?&nbsp;&nbsp;My experience in teaching patients every day has provided me with the ability to explain complicated issues in ways that are understandable by everyone.&nbsp; My 39 years in the community has given me a vast knowledge&nbsp;of the city and a history of what works and what has been tried over the&nbsp;years.-What are the top three issues you believe the city will face&nbsp;during your term, if elected/re-elected?&nbsp;Slow growth of the tax base has been an ongoing issue.&nbsp; We need more businesses and people to share in the tax load.Housing for all economic levels-shortage of buildable land in the city is a major problem, we have to pursue Neighborhood revitalization programs and infill housingChildcare supply and affordability - we need more people to fill jobs and we need to figure out childcare to allow those people to be available for employment&nbsp;-What is the number one issue you plan to tackle, if&nbsp;elected/re-elected?&nbsp;Work with Public Works to address the poor lifespan of our city streets.&nbsp; We need a new formulation for concrete or thicker asphalt.&nbsp; We have to have more resilient streets.&nbsp;-Is there something you would like to see change about any city ordinance or program?&nbsp;Nothing obvious, but we need to figure out if there are ordinances or regulations which don't make sense any longer or are more burdensome than helpful.&nbsp; Unnecessary regulations only drive up the cost without any associated benefit.

Manhattan City Commission Candidate: Mark Hatesohl

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Susan Adamchak&nbsp; AGE:&nbsp; 69&nbsp; OCCUPATION:&nbsp;Retired Sociologist&nbsp; INCUMBENT:&nbsp; No&nbsp; COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:&nbsp;I have lived in Manhattan for over thirty-five years. My child and grandchildren attended Manhattan schools. We are a military family. I have been an active volunteer in the&nbsp; community.&nbsp;

-Why have you decided to run for a position on the City Commission?&nbsp;If you are an incumbent, why did you decide to run for re-election?&nbsp;

I am running for the city commission because I believe in the potential of Manhattan and its residents. With over 35 years as a proud Manhattanite, I have a deep understanding of our community's strengths and challenges. I am committed to sustainable growth, transparent and inclusive decision-making, and fostering a thriving economy that supports businesses and entrepreneurship. I also want to support the social services that so many in our community rely on. I want to contribute my experience and passion to shape a brighter future for all of us.&nbsp;

-What experience/background do you have that would make you a good city commissioner?&nbsp;If you are an incumbent, what experience/background has made you a good city commissioner?&nbsp;

Each candidate offers a distinct blend of talents and experiences. My unique advantage is the profound depth of experience I bring. With a rich background spanning research, business, military, and academia, I have a comprehensive understanding of Manhattan's multifaceted needs. Living in different neighborhoods of Manhattan and Riley County has given me a genuine connection to the varied needs of our residents. My dedication to volunteerism has fostered deep ties with numerous community organizations, enhancing my perspective on our region's challenges and opportunities.&nbsp;

-What are the top three issues you believe the city will face&nbsp;during your term, if elected/re-elected?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sustainable Growth and Development: Focus on infrastructure improvement, promote mixed-use developments, and support local businesses and entrepreneurship.&nbsp;

Affordable Housing: Promote affordable housing initiatives, streamline building regulations, and introduce incentives for builders focusing on multi-generational housing.&nbsp;

Quality of Life: Develop new recreational centers, parks, and green spaces, invest in arts, culture, and community events, launch community-driven revitalization projects, and support social service agencies.&nbsp;

-What is the number one issue you plan to tackle, if&nbsp;elected/re-elected?&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

One of the primary challenges Manhattan faces is balancing growth with our unique geographic and heritage constraints. We're surrounded by rivers, flood plains, Fort Riley, and areas that are expensive to develop. While we aspire for growth, we must also respect and preserve the historical character of our downtown neighborhoods. The key is to find innovative solutions for industrial and housing development that align with our aspirations and values.&nbsp;

-Is there something you would like to see change about any city ordinance or program?&nbsp;&nbsp;

I have not identified a particular ordinance or program to change. I would like to	look for opportunities to leverage public-private partnerships to support infrastructure development, transportation, social services and cultural amenities, and to take full advantage of state and federal matching grant funds to improve roads and other infrastructure, including water treatment facilities.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698069157274.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Candidates were asked to limit their responses to each of the following questions to 200 words or less.&nbsp;NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Susan Adamchak&nbsp; AGE:&nbsp; 69&nbsp; OCCUPATION:&nbsp;Retired Sociologist&nbsp; INCUMBENT:&nbsp; No&nbsp; COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:&nbsp;I have lived in Manhattan for over thirty-five years. My child and grandchildren attended Manhattan schools. We are a military family. I have been an active volunteer in the&nbsp; community.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>President, Manhattan Area Resettlement Team&nbsp;</li><li>Member, Manhattan Public Library Foundation Board&nbsp;</li><li>Member, Konza Prairie Community Health Center Board&nbsp;</li><li>Member, Manhattan Arts Center, (MAC) Gallery, Wrap It Up, and Annual Fundraiser Committees&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Member, Fairy Godmothers&nbsp;</li><li>Volunteer, Common Table&nbsp;</li><li>Former Member, Human Rights and Services Board&nbsp;</li><li>Former President, Membership Chair and Book Sale Coordinator, Manhattan Library Association&nbsp;</li><li>15-Year Member, North Central Kansas Library System Board (Appointed by 3 Governors)&nbsp;</li><li>Former Member, KSU Gardens, McCain Auditorium, Beach Museum and International Programs Boards&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>-Why have you decided to run for a position on the City Commission?&nbsp;If you are an incumbent, why did you decide to run for re-election?&nbsp;I am running for the city commission because I believe in the potential of Manhattan and its residents. With over 35 years as a proud Manhattanite, I have a deep understanding of our community's strengths and challenges. I am committed to sustainable growth, transparent and inclusive decision-making, and fostering a thriving economy that supports businesses and entrepreneurship. I also want to support the social services that so many in our community rely on. I want to contribute my experience and passion to shape a brighter future for all of us.&nbsp;-What experience/background do you have that would make you a good city commissioner?&nbsp;If you are an incumbent, what experience/background has made you a good city commissioner?&nbsp;Each candidate offers a distinct blend of talents and experiences. My unique advantage is the profound depth of experience I bring. With a rich background spanning research, business, military, and academia, I have a comprehensive understanding of Manhattan's multifaceted needs. Living in different neighborhoods of Manhattan and Riley County has given me a genuine connection to the varied needs of our residents. My dedication to volunteerism has fostered deep ties with numerous community organizations, enhancing my perspective on our region's challenges and opportunities.&nbsp;-What are the top three issues you believe the city will face&nbsp;during your term, if elected/re-elected?&nbsp;&nbsp;Sustainable Growth and Development: Focus on infrastructure improvement, promote mixed-use developments, and support local businesses and entrepreneurship.&nbsp;Affordable Housing: Promote affordable housing initiatives, streamline building regulations, and introduce incentives for builders focusing on multi-generational housing.&nbsp;Quality of Life: Develop new recreational centers, parks, and green spaces, invest in arts, culture, and community events, launch community-driven revitalization projects, and support social service agencies.&nbsp;-What is the number one issue you plan to tackle, if&nbsp;elected/re-elected?&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;One of the primary challenges Manhattan faces is balancing growth with our unique geographic and heritage constraints. We're surrounded by rivers, flood plains, Fort Riley, and areas that are expensive to develop. While we aspire for growth, we must also respect and preserve the historical character of our downtown neighborhoods. The key is to find innovative solutions for industrial and housing development that align with our aspirations and values.&nbsp;-Is there something you would like to see change about any city ordinance or program?&nbsp;&nbsp;I have not identified a particular ordinance or program to change. I would like to	look for opportunities to leverage public-private partnerships to support infrastructure development, transportation, social services and cultural amenities, and to take full advantage of state and federal matching grant funds to improve roads and other infrastructure, including water treatment facilities.&nbsp;

Manhattan City Commission Candidate: Susan Adamchak

NAME: Peter Oppelt&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AGE: 35&nbsp; OCCUPATION: Data Solutions Consultant - Travelers Insurance INCUMBENT: No&nbsp; COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Hype - Engage Pillar Chair, Marlatt Elementary PTO - Vice President&nbsp;

-Why have you decided to run for a position on the City Commission? If you are an incumbent, why did you decide to run for re-election?&nbsp;

I have always felt a desire to serve. Throughout my time studying Economics and while I was working for the Kansas Departments of Revenue and Agriculture, I gained a deeper understanding and appreciation of the challenges policy makers face on a daily basis. Seeing the legislative process up close really made me realize that I have the skills to be successful making government decisions, so I began to wrap my mind around running, and after a lot of long conversations with my wife, came to the conclusion that the time was right to run and serve.&nbsp;&nbsp;

-What experience/background do you have that would make you a good city commissioner? If you are an incumbent, what experience/background has made you a good city commissioner? &nbsp;

Since I have lived here, I have been a part of almost every major group of our community; first as a Soldier at Ft. Riley, a student at Kansas State, and now living here as a professional with my young family. I will use those experiences to be able to relate with all of those groups. Professionally, I have worked as an economist with both the Kansas Department of Agriculture and Kansas Department of Revenue. During that time, I worked analyzing complex tax legislation and managing several different tax credit programs. At KDA, I worked with several Economic Development projects including modeling the economic contribution of agriculture and related industries to the state. I also managed several federal grant programs and served on the legislative committee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

-What are the top three issues you believe the city will face during your term, if elected/re-elected? &nbsp;

Budget, sustainable growth, and housing opportunities across all ranges of incomes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

-What is the number one issue you plan to tackle, if elected/re-elected?&nbsp;

I would like to be more transparent with the city’s budget. Tax relief will take long-term planning, but in the short term, we should at least be giving the community as much information about where their funds are going.&nbsp;

-Is there something you would like to see change about any city ordinance or program? &nbsp;

Having a good parks and rec program is vital to having a vibrant community. I would like to see Manhattan’s Parks and Rec continue their improvement and grow our recreational youth sports programs.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697835478947.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Candidates were asked to limit their responses to each of the following questions to 200 words or less.&nbsp;NAME: Peter Oppelt&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AGE: 35&nbsp; OCCUPATION: Data Solutions Consultant - Travelers Insurance INCUMBENT: No&nbsp; COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Hype - Engage Pillar Chair, Marlatt Elementary PTO - Vice President&nbsp;-Why have you decided to run for a position on the City Commission? If you are an incumbent, why did you decide to run for re-election?&nbsp;I have always felt a desire to serve. Throughout my time studying Economics and while I was working for the Kansas Departments of Revenue and Agriculture, I gained a deeper understanding and appreciation of the challenges policy makers face on a daily basis. Seeing the legislative process up close really made me realize that I have the skills to be successful making government decisions, so I began to wrap my mind around running, and after a lot of long conversations with my wife, came to the conclusion that the time was right to run and serve.&nbsp;&nbsp;-What experience/background do you have that would make you a good city commissioner? If you are an incumbent, what experience/background has made you a good city commissioner? &nbsp;Since I have lived here, I have been a part of almost every major group of our community; first as a Soldier at Ft. Riley, a student at Kansas State, and now living here as a professional with my young family. I will use those experiences to be able to relate with all of those groups. Professionally, I have worked as an economist with both the Kansas Department of Agriculture and Kansas Department of Revenue. During that time, I worked analyzing complex tax legislation and managing several different tax credit programs. At KDA, I worked with several Economic Development projects including modeling the economic contribution of agriculture and related industries to the state. I also managed several federal grant programs and served on the legislative committee.&nbsp;&nbsp;-What are the top three issues you believe the city will face during your term, if elected/re-elected? &nbsp;Budget, sustainable growth, and housing opportunities across all ranges of incomes.&nbsp;&nbsp;-What is the number one issue you plan to tackle, if elected/re-elected?&nbsp;I would like to be more transparent with the city’s budget. Tax relief will take long-term planning, but in the short term, we should at least be giving the community as much information about where their funds are going.&nbsp;-Is there something you would like to see change about any city ordinance or program? &nbsp;Having a good parks and rec program is vital to having a vibrant community. I would like to see Manhattan’s Parks and Rec continue their improvement and grow our recreational youth sports programs.&nbsp;

2023 Riley County Election