Election 2025: Manhattan Mayoral Candidate Mike Adrieansen

MANHATTAN, IL — The consolidated election is set for April 1, with Manhattan's mayor making a push for a second term and going up against a longtime trustee.

Mayor Mike Adrieansen heads up a slate with current trustee Justin Young and joined by newcomers Jennifer Bahena and Clint Boone for trustee, and Becky Bouck for clerk. Their slate is not named.

On slate "Manhattan First," current trustee Dave Beemsterboer tops the ticket in his bid for mayor, with new face Paula Gibbs, former trustees Mike Naughton and Tom Biscan seeking trustee spots. The slate does not include a clerk candidate.

The board will inevitably be shuffled a bit, with Trustee Ron Adamski not seeking re-election, and Beemsterboer forgoing his seat to for a shot at the mayoral one. Those elected will join trustees Tom Doyle, Lucinda Neighbors and Bob Dilling, whose terms expire in May 2027.

Patch provided candidate questionnaires, with answers now published in candidate profiles.

Early voting begins March 17.

Candidate:

Mike Adrieansen

Campaign website:

Mike4Manhattan

Office sought:

Mayor

Town/City of Residence:

Manhattan

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? This includes any relatives who work in the government you're running for.

No.

Occupation. Please include years of experience.

Equipment Mechanic for Comed 10 years, 25 years experience

Previous or current elected or appointed office.

Currently Mayor since 2021, past Trustee 2013-2016

The most pressing issues facing our (board, district, etc.) are _______, and this is what I intend to do about them.

One of the most pressing issues facing our town is the Northpoint development. The previous administration failed to adequately address this concern. Upon my election, I took immediate action by hiring an attorney to review the entire process and evaluate our options. Through this review, we gained a clearer understanding of our legal position and the potential paths forward.

Since then, I’ve actively engaged with the "Stop Northpoint" and "Just Say No to Northpoint" groups, as well as approached local landowners to encourage annexation. Most recently, our village has joined the "Stop Northpoint" lawsuit, taking a stronger stance in opposition to the development.

Another significant challenge is the lack of businesses in our area. However, we have made great strides in creating a more business-friendly environment, which has attracted renewed interest from businesses in Manhattan. We are seeing positive momentum and progress on this front, and I am committed to continuing this work to support growth and development in our town.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

The other candidate has been in office for 24 years and is now seeking the title. Over the past four years, he has consistently voted in favor of most of the proposals I brought to the board, with a few exceptions.

In contrast, I have been able to accomplish nearly everything I proposed four years ago. My focus has always been on delivering results and making actual progress, while others may rely on the title without the same level of accountability and action.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?

I am the Incumbent

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

To continue keeping Manhattan a safe place to live, I have been endorsed by the Manhattan Patrol Officers Chapter of the Illinois Council of Police.

Continue updating long-awaited plans such as the comp plan and downtown design guidelines. We have filled most vacant subdivisions and commercial units, we will continue to attract appropriate businesses our residents would support. Continue enhancing water and road infrastructure.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I have a proven track record of successfully handling important initiatives. For example, I implemented truck enforcement using portable scales, added school resource officers, introduced Manhattan's first K-9 unit, and implemented the use of a drone for enhanced security. I also worked with Dunkin', McDonald's, and Arrowhead to bring them to Manhattan, boosting our local economy. Additionally, I have focused on creating transparency in our local government through initiatives such as summarized board meetings, an E-newsletter, a quarterly newsletter, and video-recorded meetings. I also collaborated with Metra and the Park District to bring Manhattan's first dog park to the community.

Why should voters trust you?

Simply put, I delivered on nearly everything I promised four years ago. My track record speaks for itself, and I’m committed to continuing to work hard and make progress for our community.

If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office as a success?

To continue expanding economic development to offset our high taxes.

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the handling of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?

To control spending and holding the line on village portion of taxes, investigate a tax rebate for residents.

What are your thoughts on the crime rate in your community, and what more can be done to combat crime — especially violent crime — in town?

As stated before advancement of our police department is crucial, I believe the addition of school resource officers is a great way to build trust with students and will continue into adulthood. Our police officers are dedicated to our community, and I will continue to support them.

What is your view of the city's/village's approach to commercial and residential development?

I have worked closely with staff to fill subdivisions that had been vacant for years, and I believe it's important to focus on building quality homes. In the past four years, we've seen more commercial development than in the previous 20 years combined. I am committed to continuing this progress while ensuring that growth remains appropriate for our community and aligns with our small-town values.

When it comes to development, what are some key areas for improvement or additions you feel are most wanted by residents? What will need to be done to make this happen?

We’ve already made significant strides in welcoming businesses. For years, there has been a stigma that the village doesn't support business growth, but that narrative is changing. I've been in ongoing discussions with landowners, and one key solution is adding a water main along Route 52, which will help attract new businesses to the area.

Additionally, I attend various commercial conferences each year, where I've been building relationships with businesses that Manhattan residents would strongly support. Moving forward, we’ll need to continue fostering these partnerships and creating the infrastructure that supports sustainable growth.

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family?

No.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I have been serving the residents of Manhattan with Integrity and delivering results, I take pride in listening to concerns and addressing them right away. I am committed to Manhattan and hope you consider voting April 1st. Thank you