Election 2025: Manhattan Village Trustee Candidate Jennifer Bahena

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:

Jennifer Bahena

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.

I do not have family members that work in politics or government.

Occupation. Please include years of experience.

I currently work as a Bookkeeper for Union School District 81 and prior to this, I worked as an Instructional Assistant for Manhattan School District 114. Before transitioning into education, I spent 10 years as a Supervising Chemist. Afterward, I chose to focus on my young family and was a Stay-at-Home Mom for 10 years. I have been back in the workforce for approximately a year and a half. Throughout this time, I have also volunteered with various organizations related to my children.

Previous or current elected or appointed office.

I have no current experience as an elected or appointed official.

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

The most pressing issue facing our village is still Northpoint and truck traffic. If elected, I will work with the staff and village board to ensure our residents are kept informed about our efforts to deal with these matters.

In addition, I look forward to utilizing my skills to ensure our village finances stay on track and that we do all we can to provide the most services without raising taxes on our Residents.

My running mates are also looking at what we can do to possibly rebate a portion of the municipal taxes paid by residents to the village. I also support continuing our efforts to improve our roads and invest in our infrastructure needs.

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

I believe the most critical difference between myself and the other candidates is my commitment to fostering growth in our community while maintaining the small-town feel that makes Manhattan special. As a parent of young, school-aged children, I am deeply invested in their future here. It is crucial that we provide the best possible opportunities for our families and community. I am also very transparent in my views on current issues facing our town. I want to advocate for our residents by ensuring they feel heard and well-represented.

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

My challengers, who are running and have previously held positions, have failed our
community by delaying or neglecting necessary infrastructure projects and failing to plan for future growth. Additionally, there has been a lack of transparency and accountability, with poor communication with residents. By not providing clear updates on projects, budgets, and policies, the community feels left out of the loop and voiceless.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

There are several key issues that our Village Board is currently facing. I am actively educating myself on these problems, exploring potential solutions, and look forward to having a voice in addressing them. A prime example is the NorthPoint project. I am learning about the history of this long-standing issue and I am committed to standing against NorthPoint and the disruptions it would bring to our community.

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

I currently serve as a Board member for both the Manhattan Patriots and the Manhattan

PTO. These roles have allowed me to actively contribute to the betterment of our
community. I am always eager to be involved in initiatives that help improve the future of
Manhattan.

Why should voters trust you?

Voters should trust me because I am committed to transparency, honesty, and

accountability. Trust is built by demonstrating that you genuinely care about the people
and the community you represent, and by being willing to put in the effort to make
improvements. I am ready and eager to do just that.

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

If I win this position, a successful term in office would be defined by making meaningful progress that improves the lives of the people and community I represent. I aim to address local issues, foster stronger community engagement, and create an environment where residents feel heard and involved in the decision-making process.

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

When it comes to fiscal policy, government spending, and the handling of taxpayer dollars, it’s crucial to approach these issues with transparency, efficiency, and responsibility. As a public official, the primary goal should always be to ensure that taxpayer dollars are used wisely, balancing both short-term needs and long-term sustainability for the community. Taxpayer money should be spent in a way that maximizes value for residents. I would advocate for regular audits and public reporting on the budget, ensuring that residents have clear access to information on how their taxes are being used. Managing fiscal policy and taxpayer dollars requires a thoughtful, measured approach. In the office I am seeking, I would prioritize the responsible, transparent, and efficient use of funds. By focusing on essential services, maintaining a balanced budget, and investing in areas that benefit both current and future generations, we can ensure the town or village remains financially stable while fostering a thriving, sustainable community.

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?

I am pleased with the efforts our current Mayor has made to strengthen our police force, including hiring additional personnel to ensure our community remains safe. Crime has been minimal, and I believe we are on the right path toward maintaining safety. However, we must remain proactive and continue working to keep this downward trend in crime, especially violent crime. Ongoing community engagement, support for law enforcement, and preventative measures are key to sustaining and improving safety in our town.

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

I believe the village's approach to commercial and residential development should be closely examined to ensure it aligns with long-term sustainability, community well-being, and economic growth. Supporting small businesses is also crucial. The village must continue to take a thoughtful, inclusive, and long-term approach to zoning, housing, and business development to maintain a balanced and sustainable community

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?

When considering development in our village, residents have shared specific needs such as improving infrastructure, including repairing and maintaining roads, bridges, and sidewalks. Additionally, enhancing the town’s utility systems…whether modernizing sewage systems, providing clean water, or expanding broadband internet access, it is essential to meet growing demands. There is also a desire for more accessible parks, walking trails, and recreational spaces where families and friends can spend quality time together.

Safety is a priority, with residents wanting adequate police, fire, and emergency medical
services, as well as effective crime prevention programs. Furthermore, residents have
expressed a need for more local businesses, job opportunities, and economic diversity.

Lastly, there is a strong desire for a greater sense of community and inclusivity, with opportunities for residents to engage in decision-making and ensure that all voices are Heard.

To make this happen, we need to engage local businesses, developers, residents, and Board members to ensure that development plans align with the community’s needs. A long-term, strategic plan for growth must be developed, balancing economic development, sustainability, and creating a clear vision for the future. By addressing these areas and putting these plans into action, we can improve the quality of life for residents and set the community up for long-term success.

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

There is no other reason for me to not complete my full term. When I commit to something, it is imperative that I complete it. Giving up is not an option.

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

I want voters to know that, if elected, I am committed to leaving a lasting, positive impact on our community. It's about setting clear goals, following through on promises, and continuously adapting to meet the evolving needs of those I represent.