Manhattan Mayor vs. Longtime Trustee In Mayoral Race: Election 2025

MANHATTAN, IL — Election Day is finally here, and Manhattan voters will make their picks for the next mayor.

Mayor Mike Adrieansen is seeking his sophomore term, challenged by longtime trustee David Beemsterboer.

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 newcomer Paula Gibbs. Former trustees Mike Naughton and Tom Biscan seek a return to village government, also vying for trustee seats. The slate does not include a clerk candidate.

Candidates were provided with a questionnaire. Their answers were published in candidate profiles, linked below.

Adrieansen's slate

• Mike Adrieansen
• Justin Young
• Clint Boone
• Jennifer Bahena
• Becky Bouck

Manhattan First

• Dave Beemsterboer
• Paula Gibbs
• Michael Naughton
• Tom Biscan

Seeking his second term, Adrieansen said one of the most pressing issues facing the town is the Northpoint development. He touts that he has helped bring in businesses, and continues to work to improve public safety. He would seek to continue updating long-awaited plans such as the comp plan and downtown design guidelines, as well as enhance water and road infrastructure.

"I have a proven track record of successfully handling important initiatives," he wrote in his questionnaire. "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."

Read more of his answers here.

His challenger Dave Beemsterboer says the most pressing issue the Village faces is the border agreement with the City of Joliet which expires in 2026 and Northpoint planning on building on Manhattan's side of the current border agreement area. He says he will also seek to freeze or lower the dollar amount of the Village's portion of the tax levy for 2 years. He also wants increased transparency and cooperation among Village leadership.

"My experience as a Village Trustee for the past 24 years, and my ability to work with all other government entities, has allowed me to secure $50 million in grants for various projects in Manhattan such as the Metra, Round Barn Farm and many street and infrastructure improvements," he wrote in his questionnaire. "I have been instrumental in attracting many businesses into the Village. I work well behind the scenes for the betterment of the Village while never asking for the spotlight."

Read more of his answers here.

Polls open at 6 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. Don't know your polling place? The Will County Clerk can help.