Election 2025: Manhattan Village Trustee Candidate Clint Boone

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 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:

Clint Boone

Campaign website:

Mike4Manhattan

Office sought:

Village Trustee

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.

Physical Therapist - 9 years

Previous or current elected or appointed office.

None - I have not held public office before.

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

The most pressing issues facing the Village of Manhattan include responsible growth, infrastructure improvements, and maintaining our small-town character while expanding economic opportunities.

Responsible Growth & NorthPoint Opposition – Many residents are concerned about overdevelopment and the threat of projects like NorthPoint, which would bring excessive truck traffic and disrupt our community. My slate and I are committed to blocking NorthPoint and ensuring growth aligns with what residents want, not outside interests.

Infrastructure & Pedestrian Safety – As Manhattan continues to grow, it is essential that we invest in safer roads and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure to protect our residents. I support enhancing pedestrian safety measures and advocating for the long-overdue improvements to Eastern Avenue, particularly with the new fire station being built.

Economic Development – Manhattan would greatly benefit from attracting more locally-owned businesses to provide residents with more options and strengthen our tax base. I will work to create a business-friendly environment that attracts the right types of businesses while maintaining our small-town charm. Additionally, I support efforts to bring a local pharmacy back to Manhattan, as the loss of Doc’s Pharmacy has been a major inconvenience for residents.

Fiscal Responsibility & Tax Relief – I am committed to ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. My team and I have discussed implementing a potential rebate program for the Village portion of tax bills to provide financial relief while maintaining essential services.

By focusing on these key areas, I will work to preserve what makes Manhattan special while ensuring smart, sustainable progress that benefits all residents.

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

At 34, I proudly represent the average and median age of Manhattan’s population, which is in the mid-30s. Having spent most of my life in Manhattan, I have deep roots in this community, with many of my childhood friends and their families still calling this town home. At the same time, I live in a newer subdivision where many residents have recently moved here from other communities. This unique perspective allows me to be a voice for both long-time residents who value Manhattan’s small-town charm and newer residents who bring fresh ideas and energy to our growing village.

Additionally, I have a strong connection to St. Joseph’s Church and School, where I attended as a child and where my family remains actively involved today. As a member of the Men of St. Joseph, I work alongside others in our parish to support the church, school, and broader community.

As a physical therapist in town, I interact with residents of all ages and backgrounds daily, giving me valuable insight into their concerns and priorities. Through my work, I have developed strong listening skills and a problem-solving mindset—both of which are essential in public service.

My background gives me a well-rounded understanding of the various perspectives within our village. Whether it is families with deep generational ties to Manhattan, newer residents looking to put down roots, or those involved in faith-based communities like St. Joseph’s, I am committed to representing and advocating for all residents while ensuring our village continues to grow in a way that aligns with our shared values.

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

With two open trustee positions, I see this as an opportunity to bring fresh perspectives and contribute to Manhattan’s responsible and sustainable growth. Our village has tremendous untapped potential, and I want to be part of the decision-making process to ensure we grow responsibly while preserving the small-town charm that makes Manhattan special. By balancing development with the values that residents cherish, we can enhance local opportunities, attract businesses that fit our community, and maintain the quality of life that makes this town a great place to live.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

I am committed to shaping Manhattan’s future in direct response to resident input. As a physical therapist in Manhattan, I have the unique opportunity to engage with residents of all ages and backgrounds. This allows me to hear firsthand their concerns, ideas, and feedback about the issues affecting our village. By actively listening and understanding these perspectives, I am committed to ensuring that community voices help drive responsible growth, improve services, and maintain the small-town values that make Manhattan special.

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

To demonstrate my ability to handle the role of Village Trustee, I would point to a combination of my leadership experience, professional background, and community involvement:

Commitment to Leadership – I have actively taken on leadership roles, beginning with Student Council during my school years and continuing through my work with the Men of St. Joseph. These experiences have strengthened my ability to listen, collaborate, and make decisions that benefit a larger group.

Professional Experience – As a physical therapist in Manhattan, I work closely with residents of all ages and backgrounds, listening to their concerns and helping them find solutions. My profession requires problem-solving, strong communication skills, and a high level of trust—all of which are essential qualities for a Trustee.

Engagement in Policy and Advocacy – I serve on Athletico’s internal Political Action Committee, where I stay informed on state and federal legislation that affects my field. This experience has given me insight into government processes, strategic decision-making, and how policies impact individuals and businesses.

Strong Community Ties – Having lived in Manhattan for most of my life, I have built lasting relationships with both long-time residents and those new to town. I understand the priorities and concerns of different generations and want to ensure that all voices are heard.

Commitment to Fiscal Responsibility and Smart Growth – Through my campaign, I have already worked closely with my team to explore ideas like a potential tax rebate program and attracting locally-owned businesses to strengthen our tax base. These proactive efforts show my dedication to responsible governance.

My combination of leadership, professional expertise, policy experience, and deep-rooted connection to Manhattan make me confident in my ability to serve effectively as a Village Trustee.

Why should voters trust you?

I have lived the majority of my life in Manhattan, IL. I have a wide social circle that includes both long-time residents I grew up with and newer residents who have recently chosen to call Manhattan home. Additionally, as a physical therapist in town, I regularly interact with residents from all walks of life.

Voters should trust me because I have a strong personal and professional stake in this community. As a lifelong resident of Manhattan, my reputation is built on integrity, accountability, and service. I take great pride in my work as a physical therapist, where trust is essential, and I would never jeopardize that—nor my ability to provide for my family—by being anything less than honest and dedicated in my role as Trustee.

Beyond that, my deep-rooted connections in town, my involvement in local organizations, and my commitment to listening to residents show that I genuinely care about Manhattan’s future. I am running to serve the community, not for personal gain, and I will always prioritize the best interests of our residents. My Catholic upbringing and education instilled in me the core values of honesty, responsibility, and service—principles that I continue to uphold in my personal and professional life.

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

A successful term as Village Trustee would be defined by tangible improvements that enhance the quality of life in Manhattan while preserving its small-town character. My priorities include:

Blocking NorthPoint – Ensuring continued litigation efforts to prevent the project from moving forward.

Enhancing Pedestrian Safety – Implementing improvements to make roads safer for walkers and runners.

Upgrading Infrastructure – Advocating for the much-needed improvement of Eastern Avenue, especially with the new fire station being built.

Attracting Locally-Owned Businesses – Bringing in businesses that meet residents’ needs while strengthening our tax base.

Exploring a Tax Rebate Program – Working with the Village to determine a feasible way to provide financial relief to residents.

Increasing Government Transparency – Building on the progress of the past four years to ensure residents stay informed and engaged in decision-making.

If I can make meaningful progress on these issues and ensure residents feel heard and represented, I will consider my term a success.

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

Fiscal responsibility and careful management of taxpayer dollars are essential to maintaining and improving our village. My team and I have discussed implementing a potential rebate program for the Village portion of tax bills, which could provide financial relief and additional benefits to residents. I also prioritize smart economic growth by welcoming new locally owned businesses that not only provide residents with more options but also contribute to increasing tax revenue. By fostering responsible development and ensuring efficient government spending, we can sustain and enhance the quality of life in Manhattan while keeping the financial burden on residents as low as possible.

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?

Manhattan is one of the safest communities in Illinois, thanks to the dedication of Chief Gulli and the Village of Manhattan Police Department. They do a great job protecting our town and maintaining a strong sense of safety. While crime rates remain low, it is important to continue supporting our police department with the resources and community engagement needed to keep Manhattan safe as we grow. Encouraging neighborhood involvement and maintaining strong communication between law enforcement and residents are key to keeping Manhattan safe. Providing our officers with the necessary resources and support will ensure they can continue to protect our community effectively.

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

I support continuing downtown improvements that are shaped by resident input, ensuring that development aligns with the needs and character of our community. When it comes to residential growth, I believe in prioritizing quality over quantity—maintaining the integrity of Manhattan rather than rapid expansion. Right now, my priority is attracting locally owned businesses that provide residents with more options and contribute to a more substantial tax base rather than simply expanding residential development. Thoughtful, balanced growth will help sustain our small-town charm while supporting the needs of our residents and local businesses.

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?

Many residents have expressed a strong desire for a local pharmacy, as the closure of Doc’s Pharmacy years ago left our community without a convenient option for filling prescriptions. This has forced residents to travel out of town for essential medications, creating an inconvenience—especially for seniors, families, and those with urgent healthcare needs.

As a healthcare professional in Manhattan, I fully support bringing a pharmacy back to our village. I will work closely with Village officials and the administrator to explore viable opportunities, engage with potential business owners, and ensure that we create a welcoming environment for a pharmacy to establish itself and succeed in our community.

The downtown redevelopment plan is another key focus, carefully shaped by resident feedback at open houses and ongoing community input. It is essential that this project continues to reflect the needs and priorities of those who call Manhattan home.

Additionally, while not as critical as infrastructure improvements, many residents have expressed a strong interest in bringing a sit-down breakfast restaurant back to town. A local breakfast spot would not only enhance our community’s dining options but also contribute to the village’s overall tax revenue. Supporting small businesses like this can help foster local economic growth while maintaining the charm and character of Manhattan.

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

No. I plan to serve a full term.

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

My background has shaped my positions by giving me a deep appreciation for Manhattan’s values, traditions, and the importance of responsible growth. Moving here in 1997 as a child, I had the privilege of growing up in a close-knit community where neighbors looked out for each other, and the small-town atmosphere fostered strong relationships. Attending St. Joseph’s Catholic School and Providence Catholic High School instilled in me the values of service, integrity, and putting others before myself—principles that continue to guide my decision-making today.

My education and career as a physical therapist have reinforced my commitment to listening, problem-solving, and working toward practical solutions that benefit others. In my profession, I work with people from all walks of life, hearing their concerns and helping them improve their quality of life. That same approach applies to my role as a candidate for Village Trustee—I believe in listening to residents, understanding their needs, and working together to strengthen our community.

Returning to Manhattan in 2019 with my wife, Mary, to raise our family reaffirmed my dedication to this town’s future. Now, as a parent, I see firsthand the importance of maintaining a safe, thriving community with strong schools, local businesses, and infrastructure that supports families. I want to ensure that Manhattan continues to be a great place for both longtime residents and new families who choose to call this town home.

Because of my background, I am committed to preserving Manhattan’s small-town character while embracing smart, responsible growth. I believe in transparency, fiscal responsibility, and investing in projects that benefit residents, such as improving pedestrian safety, enhancing infrastructure like Eastern Avenue, and attracting local businesses that meet the needs of our community. I understand what makes Manhattan special, and I will work to protect and enhance it for future generations.