Election 2025: Mokena Village Trustee Candidate Daniel Gilbert

MOKENA, IL — The consolidated election is set for April 1, and Mokena will come out of it with some new faces on the Village Board.

Two candidates are running for one unexpired term, and seven are running for trustee seats. One seat is unexpired, with two running for it. Five others are running for three, four-year seats.

The policy-making branch of the Village of Mokena includes the Village President (Mayor) and a six-person Board of Trustees. Officials are elected at large for staggered, four-year terms.

Current Mayor Frank Fleischer leads his Mokena's Future slate, with trustee candidates Nick Clancy (candidate for the unexpired term), Kimberly Huelsman, and James Roberts.

Mayoral challenger and sitting Trustee George Metanias runs with his Friends of Mokena slate, with trustee candidates Daniel Gilbert, Colleen Patrick-Lenart (candidate for the unexpired term), Melissa Fedora (incumbent) and Josh Bailey. Incumbent Village Clerk Melissa Martini also joins their ticket.

Patch has provided a questionnaire to candidates, and we're now featuring their answers in candidate profiles.

Candidate:

Daniel Gilbert

Position sought:

Mokena Village Trustee

Campaign website:

https://friendsofmokena.com/

Town of residence:

Mokena

Party affiliation:

Independent

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.

Educator and Entrepreneur

Previous or current elected or appointed office:

Mokena Community Park District Board Commissioner

The most pressing issues facing Mokena are _______, and this is what I intend to do about them.

I believe in fostering a downtown business district that welcomes new development while valuing our existing businesses. A thriving, vibrant downtown will enhance Mokena’s charm and help ease the tax burden on homeowners.

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

As a lifelong member of this community, I have a deep love and loyalty to Mokena. At the same time, I offer a fresh perspective on long-standing challenges.

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

I believe everyone running for a village position recognizes Mokena’s value. Instead of engaging in political games or finger-pointing, I’m focused on getting to work for the town I love.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Property taxes are a major concern. While taxes serve a purpose, they must be spent wisely and efficiently. With my budgeting experience, I will ensure the Village of Mokena remains accountable for responsible spending and strategic planning.

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

I bring a strong combination of experience, community commitment, and fresh perspective to my campaign for trustee. My current service as a Mokena Community Park District Commissioner has given me firsthand knowledge of Mokena’s challenges and opportunities, and my deep roots in the community reflect a genuine love for the town.

My focus on small business survival, economic growth, and community engagement aligns with Mokena’s needs, and my belief in responsible budgeting ensures I will prioritize efficient tax spending. Plus, my willingness to avoid political games and focus on solutions makes me a candidate who puts Mokena first.

Why should voters trust you?

I hope to earn voters' trust through my proven dedication to Mokena, both as a trustee and an active member of the community. I am not just making promises—I have already demonstrated my commitment to responsible governance, small business support, and economic growth.

I bring a balanced approach, combining fresh ideas with practical experience. I believe in transparency, accountability, and always putting Mokena’s best interests first. My focus isn’t on personal gain or political maneuvering—it’s on delivering real, positive change for the town I love.

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

A successful term would mean making tangible progress in revitalizing Mokena’s downtown, attracting new businesses, and expanding the commercial tax base to ease the burden on homeowners. Ensuring responsible budgeting and efficient spending would also be key accomplishments, keeping Mokena financially strong while maintaining the high quality of life residents expect.

Beyond policy, success would mean fostering a stronger sense of community engagement—making sure residents feel heard, involved, and confident that their local government is working for them. If, by the end of my term, Mokena is a more vibrant, business-friendly, and financially stable town with residents who trust their leadership, I would consider that a success.

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

I believe in responsible fiscal policy that prioritizes the efficient use of taxpayer dollars. Government spending should be transparent, accountable, and focused on initiatives that directly benefit the community. It’s crucial to ensure that every dollar spent is in line with the town's long-term goals, whether that’s supporting local businesses, improving infrastructure, or maintaining essential services.

I believe the budget should reflect the values of the community and be carefully managed to avoid wasteful spending. As trustee, I would push for clear financial planning, ensuring we have the resources to invest in Mokena’s future without placing an undue burden on taxpayers. We should also actively explore opportunities for economic growth that can expand the tax base, ultimately reducing the reliance on property taxes.

In essence, I see the role of government as one of stewardship—responsible with the funds we have and strategic in finding new ways to strengthen Mokena financially.

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?

Luckily, crime rates in Mokena are relatively lower than in many surrounding areas, which is a testament to the strength of our community and the efforts of our local law enforcement. However, even with these lower rates, there is always work to be done. Preventing crime requires continued investment in safety measures, community programs, and a proactive approach from both law enforcement and residents. By strengthening our police department’s resources, fostering community engagement, and addressing underlying issues like mental health, we can ensure Mokena remains a safe, thriving town for all.

What is your view of the city's approach to commercial and residential development? What would you change (if anything)?

I believe the village’s approach to commercial and residential development should strike a balance between growth and maintaining the character of Mokena. We need to attract new businesses and residential developments that contribute to a strong economy and meet the needs of our growing population, while ensuring that any development aligns with the values and long-term vision of the community.

For commercial development, it’s essential to focus on bringing in businesses that not only add to our tax base but also enhance the quality of life for residents. A vibrant downtown area with diverse, locally-owned businesses can become a hub that attracts visitors, supports small businesses, and provides convenient amenities for our community.

On the residential side, we need to continue to encourage development that provides a variety of housing options, ensuring there are choices for all demographics, from young families to retirees. Growth should be planned thoughtfully, with attention to infrastructure, traffic, and the environment to maintain the small-town charm that makes Mokena so special.

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?

To enhance Mokena’s development, we need to focus on revitalizing downtown with local businesses and entertainment, increasing parks and recreational spaces, upgrading traffic flow and infrastructure to accommodate growth, and creating a welcoming environment for new families while also providing a great place for retirees. These efforts will require thoughtful planning, collaboration with developers, and responsible budgeting to ensure sustainable growth that benefits both current and future residents.

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

No, there is no reason I would not serve my full term of office, other than personal health or family matters. I am fully committed to seeing my term through, working toward the goals and priorities I’ve set for the community, and ensuring that Mokena continues to grow and thrive.

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

I want voters to know that I am deeply committed to Mokena and its future. My approach is rooted in transparency, accountability, and a genuine desire to improve the community for everyone—whether through supporting local businesses, enhancing quality of life, or ensuring responsible spending. I believe in working collaboratively, listening to residents, and making decisions that prioritize the long-term well-being of Mokena.

I also want to emphasize that I’m focused on solutions, not politics. I’m not here to play political games or engage in divisive tactics. My goal is to work toward meaningful progress that benefits our town, respects our values, and ensures a bright future for all who call Mokena home.