ExpandManteno's Ben Milton and Eric Eldridge block Kankakee Trinity Academy's Johnny Bayaraa's attempt to score on Thursday
KANKAKEE − The first season for the <a href="https://www.shawlocal.com/tags/manteno-preps/" target="_blank" rel="" title="https://www.shawlocal.com/tags/manteno-preps/">Manteno</a> boys volleyball program will come to an end next week, and the Panthers picked up a road win Thursday over Trinity, responding to Monday’s loss to those same Eagles and adding another victory to the fledgling program’s record book. 
Although not quite entrenched as a varsity program in its first season, Manteno’s de facto varsity team improved to 4-3 on the season with the win. 
Many of the Panthers players, such as senior standout Maverick Kenney, had no organized volleyball experience coming into the season. Kenney said there were a few reasons why he decided to join the team in his senior year. 
“Really what made me want to come out for the team was I actually watched a volleyball anime,” he said. 
But while “Haikyu!!” may have played a bit of a role in piquing his interest, Kenney said the main reason he joined was to try something new with his friends. 
Fellow seniors Ben Milton, Mason McElroy, Elijah Kraft, Cody Hall, Matt Dumontelle, Nick Naese and Nate Harrod also came out for the team in their final high school semester, and Kenney said it is bittersweet knowing this season of volleyball will be the only one they play together. 
ExpandAutoplayImage 1 of 14Manteno's Mason McElroy aims for over the net at the game against Kankakee Trinty Academy on Thursday, May 1, 2025. (Bill Jurevich for Shaw Local New)
“I’ve had a lot of happy moments just having the team together,” he said. “It’s a very positive team. Everyone is lifting each other up and everyone makes each other feel good. It’s also pretty sad that it’s the first year and it’s the only year I’m going to get to play as a senior.”
Having such a large number of players on a team who had not played the sport outside of gym class or in the backyard with friends presented some challenges for coach Matt Clymer. 
“It’s a different game, to be sure,” Clymer said. “That’s been a big part of our challenge is getting things like rotations and covering, things you don’t think about when you’re playing with your buddies in the backyard.”
Thursday’s match was a good opportunity for the team to showcase what it has learned throughout the season and from their loss to Trinity at home Monday. 
The Panthers took the opening set 25-21, pulling ahead after a close start and fighting off a late push by the Eagles. Trinity took the second set 25-16 before Manteno won the decisive third set 25-23. 
“We prepped in practice yesterday, we kind of played a lot to the things we knew we were going to see here tonight, and it paid off,” Clymer said. “We knew they’re athletic, we knew they were going to block us. We were working a lot on covering the blocks, which we really haven’t practiced yet. 
“[We were] making adjustments in the middle of the week to come back, knowing who were going play against, and I’d say it worked out pretty well tonight.”
Thursday was the regular-season finale for Trinity. Although things came to an end with a close loss, head coach Chrissy Hathaway said there was plenty of progress made, as the team finished 12-6 overall. 
“I feel like overall they’ve had great improvement,” she said. “We had really two guys that had experience, and the rest didn’t really have experience at all. They’re all young too, so it’s really encouraging to see them grow.”
The Eagles are indeed a young team, having no seniors. This means they will head into next season with a chance to expand on the experience they gained this year. 
“It was a great year,” Hathaway said. “I’d like to see these guys build a little bit more, but I’m excited about what they look like for the future, because they grew so much this school year.”
Manteno has one game remaining in its inaugural season. It will be a tough test against the Joliet Catholic JV team, coming from a program that is much more entrenched than the Panthers. Kenney said he and his teammates are hoping to end on a high note. 
“I’m going to start off with getting the most kills on the team, and then we’re going to end with a ‘W,’ ” he said. “That’s what I’m planning on.”
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MANTENO – A Manteno man has been arrested following a week-long investigation into alleged possession of child sexual abuse images.
Troy A. Sample, of Manteno, was arrested Wednesday by Manteno police following a week-long investigation into allegations involving the unlawful recording of a minor.
In a news release, Manteno police said the 51-year-old Sample has been charged with possession of child sexual abuse images, production of child sexual abuse images, grooming and criminal sexual abuse.
The female victim is a family member, Manteno police said.
Sample was taken into custody without incident and has been booked into the Jerome Combs Detention Center in Kankakee, according to the release.
No further details are being released at this time to protect the integrity of the investigation and the privacy of the victim, according to the release.
MANTENO – It will be a time for change in the village of Manteno following Tuesday’s election, and that change will extend to the Manteno District 5 School Board, where an incumbent was unseated.
Jim Hanley, a school board member for about five years, who is also the Manteno Public Works superintendent, lost his seat to first-time candidate Mary Crowe, a retired teacher.
Crowe handily earned the most votes of the three candidates vying for two spots on the seven-member board.
Unofficial vote totals showed Crowe earned 40.55% (2,067) of votes, while Hanley and fellow incumbent Joshua Stauffenberg were neck and neck, with 29.39% (1,498) and 30.06% (1,532) of votes, respectively.
With a difference of just 34 votes, Stauffenberg, who was appointed to the board less than a year ago after long-time member Pat Mallaney stepped down, was able to keep his seat and get elected for his first four-year term.
Incumbent Megan Powell ran unopposed for a seat representing the district’s remaining congressional townships.
Hanley said he expected “it would be a close one” between himself and Stauffenberg.
He believes Crowe likely had an advantage as someone outside of the current school board. 
“There’s been a lot of voice for change in the community, so anything could have happened,” Hanley said.
The public’s negative perceptions of local boards that supported tax abatements for the Gotion lithium battery plant was likely a factor, he said.
Though the ballot asked voters to select two names, some may have only voted for Crowe, as she had a steady lead over the other two candidates.
“I do work for the village, so I’m sure it could be some correlation [with Gotion] in some people’s minds,” Hanley said.
However, Hanley has a positive outlook about the future of Manteno School District, which he said is in a “good position financially.” 
“They are going to have plenty of work ahead of them,” Hanley said. “Hopefully, it continues on the path it was going. I was pretty lucky to get involved with a group of people that were making the right decisions.”
Crowe taught for 34 years at a public junior high school in Alsip and recently was a permanent substitute at Manteno Middle School for two years.
“I feel that, because of my background in education for 36 years, I’m confident that I can bring a different perspective to the board,” she said. 
Her husband, Kenneth Crowe, a retired sales manager for Van Drunen Ford Dealership in Homewood, died March 23. His funeral services took place days before the election.
“It’s been quite a whirlwind, a rollercoaster of emotions,” she noted.
“He would be proud of me,” she said of the election outcome.
Crowe’s goals as a board member are to ensure the district remains financially stable and that open communication is maintained among students, staff and taxpayers.
“I’d like to see that high standards are set and supported for both the students and staff,” she said.
Her community involvement has included the Manteno Youth Baseball/Softball League and the Old Mill Soccer Association Board. She was also a union representative in her former school district.
“I’m happy the community sees something in me that I can bring to the table,” she said.
Crowe was not sure what to expect Tuesday, as it was her first time running for office. 
The “whirlwind” was certainly heightened by the high stakes of the mayoral and village board elections in Manteno.
“It’s always been on my bucket list to be on a school board, and the one time I do throw my name in the hat, it’s a big election cycle, with especially the Choice Party and the Freedom Party,” she noted. “Normally, April elections are a little bit more low key, but not this one.” 
But, she views the high level of community involvement and increased voter turnout as positives.
“Regardless of what party you’re in, I think people are going to be more involved in politics, which is a good thing.”
Stauffenberg said that Hanley’s knowledge as the head of public works for the village was “invaluable” as a member of the school board’s building and grounds committee.
However, he believes Crowe will “fit right in.”
“I think her viewpoints are probably going to align very similarly with that of the Manteno School Board, and hopefully, she plugs right in and we can keep going,” Stauffenberg said. “It’s sad to see Jim go, but we are all here for the kids.”
Stauffenberg, a 35-year resident of Manteno, is chair of the Manteno Chamber of Commerce Board, but the Manteno School Board is his first elected position.
A former Manteno High School soccer coach, he has four kids and six nieces and nephews attending Manteno schools and “thought it was time” to get involved on the board.
“The education community and the community in general is ever-changing,” Stauffenberg said. “More people are moving into the town. Education requirements are changing. I think it’s important to have people on board to help put kids first and make decisions based on what’s going to be in the best interest of all the kids.”
ExpandJoel Gesky (Photo provided by Joel Gesky )
What office are you seeking? Mayor of Manteno
What is your political party? Manteno Choice Party
Occupation and employer: Self-employed entrepreneur
What offices, if any, have you previously held? Village of Manteno trustee 2005-present
Lake Waldon homeowners’ association vice president 2000-present
Kids and Clays board member benefitting Ronald McDonald Children’s Hospital
Campaign Website: Manteno Choice Party (facebook)
Education: B.S. in Business Administration University of Nebraska Lincoln
Post- Graduate (advanced master’s program) Olivet University
Community Involvement: Volunteer Football Coach Manteno HS
Marital status/Immediate family: Wife- Dawn
Being a mayor you are responsible for leading a team. It is much different that being a trustee who makes decisions. The mayor is tasked with helping empower others to make the decisions that represent the best interest of the village residents. It is not about being a dictator, or for that matter even a decision maker. It is all about leading others and providing guidance to achieve a common goal.
I look forward to continuing the tax and garbage programs we have in place.
There has never been a better time to live in Manteno!
Absolutely. Under my direction we will continue to foster strong relationships with all other governmental agencies just as we have in the past.
We truly believe there has never been a better time to live in Manteno!
I believe that working in conjunction with representatives from metro we can continuously look for ways to improve the services already provided. That may include adding or changing stop locations etc. I believe we need to be open to change if that is what the public is requesting.
My biggest concern involves the training and qualifications of our police force. Currently for our department to qualify annually for firearms they need to leave our village proper. In doing this one of two things are the result. We either are either forced to pay overtime to an officer and allocate resources to leave our community, or we leave our patrol understaffed with unavailable resources. It is my contention that neither option is adequate as public safety is our priority.
In today’s world we must be prepared for the worst, as such I would like to continue to explore options to be able to cost effectively provide our police department with their own practice range in town.
Since I have been associated with the village we have always been in favor of complete inclusion in all policies, procedures and activities within the village. As the Mayor I will not tolerate ANY discrimination of any sort. We will continue to embrace our differences while holding each person to the same set of standards.
Absolutely, this is already a requirement by the county. Each year every elected officer must complete their statement of economic interest with the Kankakee County Clerk’s office. We will continue to cooperate and adhere to these policies as we have in the past.
I am always accessible and am usually pretty easy to spot in a crowd 😂. I will maintain a village email address where people may reach out to me. Additionally, messages may be left for me at the village hall in which I will respond in a timely manner or people are free to reach out to me at any one of my business locations. I will gladly schedule an appointment so that we can address any concerns people may have.
ExpandManteno Mayor candidate Annette LaMore, center, watches as vote totals are calculated Tuesday night at a watch party for the Freedom Party candidates at the Manteno American Legion. Pending official results, LaMore has secured the seat over opponent Joel Gesky. (Tiffany Blanchette)
MANTENO - Manteno residents voted for change on Tuesday in the municipal election as Manteno Freedom Party mayoral candidate Annette LaMore defeated Joel Gesky, a village trustee and Manteno Choice Party candidate, 1,536-1,231.
LaMore, a one-time village trustee, won 55.5% of the vote.
“I’m happy. I’m very happy,” said LaMore at the Freedom Party’s gathering at the American Legion. “It feels good to have so many people that believe in me, but now I have to make sure I do what I’m supposed to do. I’ve got to live up to what they think I can do. 
“So there will be challenges for me, but I’m an honest person, and when I don’t know the answers, I’ll talk to people who are smarter than me, and I’ll put together with the board and we will work it out.”
Gesky, who has been a village trustee for 18 of the past 20 years, said the party gave it their best shot.
“We ran a classy campaign, and you just have to let the chips fall where they may,” he said.
Gesky still has two years left on his trustee term.
“I guess they want me to be a decision-maker instead of a leader, so that’s good,” he said.
ExpandAnnette LaMore (Photo provided by Annette LaMore)
Village President (Mayor) of <a href="https://www.shawlocal.com/tags/manteno/" target="_blank">Manteno</a>
Bishop McNamara High School Irish Alumni Board President
Joseph Church Religious Education Board President
Manteno Sportsman’s Club Auxiliary President
<a href="https://www.shawlocal.com/tags/kankakee-community-college/" target="_blank">Kankakee Community College</a>
St. Joseph Catholic Church (Greeter for 30 years, CCD teacher for 15 years)
Manteno Woman’s Club (Currently Publicity Chairperson)
Former Foster Parent for Catholic Charities ( 3 years)
Former Volunteer at Manteno Golf Course (13 years)
Former fundraiser for American Heart Association
Manteno’s greatest weakness is lack of transparency on the Village Board. Important decisions have been made without input from our community. Nepotism and cronyism fill key positions in village government.
The greatest strength of Manteno is the history of our small town and the many good people who live here and contribute to the community, whether through volunteerism or sponsoring events for everyone to enjoy. People who live here reach out and help one another. Many fundraisers are held for charities, church, and school events. It is a great town in many ways.
1. Address current health and safety concerns regarding the type of businesses we allow in our community. We can do this by following the Comprehensive Plan that was put in place years ago.
2. Work together with our citizens and follow a balanced budget to make our town a great place to live.
3. Research the amenities needed in Manteno and maintain controlled growth, while working to keep our taxes affordable. This can be accomplished by working as a team, (village board, engineers, auditors, and village employees), with input from our citizens. I believe in setting goals and working together to make things happen.
As of now, I do not see a need for Manteno to bring Metra or El trains to our village, It would take away the small town atmosphere and make us a suburb of Chicago. Many people have moved here to get away from city life. We appreciate the small town atmosphere and security of a friendly community.
The city council should always put local businesses first. When we have town celebrations I feel that local business should be prioritized. Economic growth is good, but not at the expense of our local business owners.
Inclusion means accepting all people as equals no matter what their ethnicity, race, religion, or gender. All residents have the right to share in community services and opportunities.
Manteno welcomes all law abiding citizens who choose to reside in our town.
All who run for office must fill out a statement of economic interest. It is a requirement, not an option.
My contact information is available to community residents, and it will continue to be should I become Manteno’s next mayor. I will respond to all questions and concerns in a timely manner.
ExpandManteno Mayor Tim Nugent pushes in his chair for the last time during the village board meeting on Monday, April 21, 2025. (Tiffany Blanchette)
MANTENO – Tim Nugent has lived nearly his entire life in Manteno – save for eight years spent in Kankakee when he was that city’s police chief from 1985-93.
Nugent, 72, walked away from his mayor’s post of 20 years on Monday, leaving a lasting legacy of turning the small village into a vibrant community that is the envy of many similar-sized communities in Illinois.
Some opponents might debate the Manteno he left, but the projects and upgrades Nugent helped guide and establish in the northern Kankakee County village are remarkably unmatched.
“Over the course of time and because we were there for 20 years, we were able to do a lot of sustained stuff,” he said. “The problem with politics and terms, you get in for four years and it takes a long time to plan something, and then a long time to execute something.”
Nugent said he was fortunate to be able to serve as mayor for five terms, and his administration was able to get a lot accomplished in two decades. It wasn’t easy when he took over as mayor in 2005.
“We had a broken water system,” he said. “Our sewer system was maxed out. Our schools were overcrowded, and growth was a problem.”
After studying the options to fix the water system, Nugent said the village decided to sell it to Aqua Illinois for $4.5 million in 2007.
He said selling to Aqua was a favorable deal because it would’ve cost the village $25 million to build its own water filtration plant to meet the expected growth. 
“Our water bills would more than likely be even higher today if we still owned it, but that’s the path that you didn’t take, that people don’t know,” Nugent said.
Flush with the $4.5 million from the Aqua deal, the village turned to improving its streetscape, appearance and infrastructure. Manteno put that seed money to good use.
“If we sold an asset, we were going to turn it into an asset,” Nugent said.
One of the first things Nugent decided to do was start a beautification program for the village, as they planted trees along Main Street and purchased the adjacent parking lots from Canadian National Railway.
“We created the Main Street plaza and all the different street lighting to beautify the downtown,” he said.
The village responded well to those efforts, and it jump-started the revitalization.
“The empty businesses that were on Main Street started filling up,” he said. “We said, ‘Hey, we’re starting to see some results here. Maybe we’re on to something,’ and we need to keep expanding that.”
In 2008, the village hired Hitchcock Design Group, of Naperville, to come up with a plan to enhance the entire downtown area.
Hitchcock came up with what is now the Square on Second, which required buying five houses on Second Street in what became a multiyear project. 
“We had a lot of public meetings about ‘What do we want to see downtown?’” Nugent said.
It was a collaborative effort to decide what attractions would work best for the Square on Second. 
Nugent’s first term led to second and third terms, as the village was picking up momentum turning Manteno into a destination. Manteno grew from a population of 6,414 in 2000 to 9,214 in 2010.
“We were able to stay there, and we were able to then continue on and do the Square on Second and plan all that and pay for it with the money we had gotten from Aqua,” Nugent said.
Nugent said the village maintained a good relationship with Aqua and turned to the company again when the wastewater plant was nearing the end of its lifecycle. The facility was going to need a multimillion dollar upgrade.
Manteno sold its wastewater plant to Aqua for a whopping $25 million in 2017. The village used the proceeds from that sale to continue with building more assets. The village kept that money in the bank and waited until interest rates increased after three years to let the windfall grow.
The village started to rebate homeowners local property taxes, paying for their garbage fees and setting sights on how to further improve the village and addressing its most pressing needs. It turned its focus on upgrading the police department and public works facilities which had outgrown their current buildings.
In 2022, the village purchased the former Municipal Bank building at 110 Marquette Place South for $1.65 million and renovated it into a state-of-the-art police station that opened in the summer of 2023.
The renovation cost $1.5 million. It was estimated that to build a new building from the ground up would’ve been in the $6 million range.
The public works department moved from its old building at 700 S. Oak St. to a brand new facility on North Maple Street across from Legacy Park in 2023. The village purchased 10 acres for the new, 45,000-square-foot public works facility, and the total project cost $7 million.
Legacy Park was also developed with the Aqua sale money, and it’s home for the Manteno Wildcats football program, an outdoor hockey rink and a soon-to-to-be completed fishing pond. Legacy Park was also developed in conjunction with Manteno Township.
All of these upgrades were completed during Nugent’s 20 years as mayor.
“We bought all those facilities with proceeds that we had gotten from different asset sales,” he said. “We’ve still got about $15-$16 million left.”
Nugent’s administration was also instrumental in helping the Manteno School District improve its facilities.
The school district had failed on a few referendums to gain the needed money to address the growth, because the public sentiment was the district wasn’t spending money wisely.
Early in his tenure, Nugent worked with then school Superintendent Dawn Russert to get the referendum passed. They had to change the public perception by having a third party audit of the schools. Nugent met with local developers who committed $75,000 to pay for the independent audit.
The auditors spent a month at the school going over everything about its operations. The auditor’s report basically revealed the school district was operating very lean and was one of the more economical districts in the state, Nugent said.
The school district used the report as a marketing tool to have another referendum, which passed.
“That’s what got the school district enough money to add on to the middle school and to the high school,” Nugent said. “... We came up with a plan on how [to change the perception], and Dawn was a great partner.”
In 2023 when Nugent worked with the state of Illinois to bring the Gotion lithium battery factory to Manteno, he had no idea there would be such a big pushback against the China-based manufacturer.
“My focus was bringing in a company with jobs, and that was going to invest a lot of capital and a lot of money into the community,” he said. “They had been brought to us by the state, and they were actually looking at a number of different locations. When we first started, I thought Manteno’s chances of getting that was pretty much slim to none.”
Nugent said companies had looked at sites in Manteno hundreds of times, but they mostly went elsewhere. Gotion chose the Manteno site over several others.
“The whole Chinese communist stuff, I didn’t envision that being nearly the political firestorm that it turned out to be,” he said. “A good portion of that was a lot of national politics involved. There’s a lot of people that are anti electric vehicle. ... They’re anti something, and this checked a lot of boxes for them.”
He added that a lot of people from the suburbs of Chicago have moved to Manteno to escape similar issues.
“They were afraid that this was going to cause issues like that, where they came, where they got away from,” Nugent said. “I think there’s a lot of prejudices there. I think fear is a big motivator. ... The anti people used all the fear mongering that they could to build up their steam, and it worked.”
Nugent will continue to live in Manteno as his grandkids live there. He also knew when he was elected for his fifth term, that was going to be his last.
“It’s a different town today than it was 20 years ago, and I think 95% of that is positive,” he said.
Nugent admits that he couldn’t envision the last 18 months of his mayoral run would be as crazy, wild and negative as it was. He received several death threats via anonymous letters and phone calls over the Gotion plant.
“You can disagree all day long, and there’s nothing wrong with that,” he said. “It’s the nastiness, the degrading and you know threatening your life, ... threatening your kids, threatening your grandkids. That’s what I don’t understand. ... That’s unsettling because no public official should have to go through that.”
ExpandManteno Mayor Tim Nugent appointed Annette Zimbelman on Monday to fill the remaining two years on Trustee Wendell Phillips' term. Phillips resigned this past Wednesday due to health concerns. (Daily Journal/Tiffany Blanchette)
MANTENO – In a surprise move by Manteno Mayor Tim Nugent, Annette Zimbelman was appointed Monday to fill the remaining two years of village Trustee Wendell Phillips’ term.
Phillips resigned this past Wednesday due to health reasons. Zimbelman ran for one of the three village trustee seats as a Manteno Choice Party candidate in the April 1 election, but finished fifth in the voting.
Nugent said Phillips called him the day after the election to resign his seat.
“He’s had some some health issues that have kind of come up, and he just didn’t feel as though he was going to be able to commit the time, and he was going to resign effective immediately,” Nugent said.
When a trustee resigns, it’s the mayor’s choice to appoint a replacement. Nugent, whose term as mayor ends in two weeks, said he had talked with Zimbelman on several occasions. 
“She has served on the planning commission,” he said. “She’s a lifelong resident of the community. Her family has been here forever and ever, and she showed interest in the position and so I thought she was a natural fit.”
Annette LaMore, the incoming Manteno mayor, described the appointment as inappropriate.
“I’m very disappointed that Mayor Nugent appointed a new trustee. It would have been better if he had not made this decision,” LaMore said in a text message to The Journal.
“... Annette (Zimbelman) is a member of the planning commission and she is currently running to be a trustee in a political election that has not been certified yet,” LaMore said.
The appointment didn’t sit well with others who are aligned with the Manteno Freedom Party. They spoke during public participation at the meeting.
George Reichardt addressed Zimbelman’s brother, Troy Trepanier, who’s the owner of the renowned Rad Rides by Troy in Manteno, when he spoke.
“I’m sorry,” he said. “Nothing against your sister. I don’t know who talked her into it, but it’s not good for the town.”
Bill Barnes, of Manteno, said his objection to the appointment was nothing against the person because he doesn’t know her. He questioned Nugent for appointing a new trustee on his way out of serving as mayor.
“I guess I would ask her, as I know she’s very competitive in the sports,” Barnes said. “If you were in a CrossFit competition and you didn’t win fair and square, would you accept the trophy for first place or would you say ‘no?’ ”
Zimbelman’s husband, Rob, also spoke, and he said her heart is filled with love, pride and compassion.
“That same love, pride and compassion extends to her family, our schools and our community,” he said.
The board voted 4-0 for Zimbelman’s appointment with Trustee CJ Boudreau abstaining. 
Manteno village trustee Annette Zimbelman (Chris Breach)
Boudreau later said he abstained because he was appointed this past July to fill the unexpired term of Sam Martin, who had resigned. Although he’s part of the Choice Party with Zimbelman, he saw his vote as being biased.
“I wish her luck,” he said. “I think she’s going to do great these next two years, and I’m glad she is on the board.”
Zimbelman, 57, thanked Nugent for his 20 years of service as mayor and the trustees for giving her the opportunity.
“I look forward to working for Manteno for the next two years and doing my best,” she said.
Zimbelman added she’s not fazed by the criticism of her appointment.
“That noise does not bother me,” she said. “I’m here for the better of our community, and I don’t listen to the noise. I’m not on Facebook.”
ExpandVillage of Manteno (Daily Journal/Tiffany Blanchette)
MANTENO – Looking to control the possible future development on the southern end of the village, the Manteno Board approved three ordinances for a 72-acre parcel of farmland.
On Monday, the board approved an ordinance annexing approximately 72 acres located southwest of East 7000 North Road and North 1000 East Road in Manteno and the annexation agreement between Martin Rentals CJM and the village for that same parcel.
It also approved the zoning of the land as I-2 heavy industrial.
The 6-0 vote on the ordinances came after several residents spoke during a public hearing at the board meeting against zoning the land heavy industrial.
Amanda Piker, of Manteno, said the parcel was zoned light industrial when it was in the village of Bourbonnais before it was de-annexed and became part of the county where it was also zoned light industrial.
“When this is annexed, it becomes heavy industrial, and that parcel of land is not surrounded by heavy industrial on that side of it,“ she said. ”We want that on record, that as soon as it comes in, because we believe that there is a plant lined up behind that you guys aren’t telling us about. And you’re making moves for this to put in a heavy industrial plant right up against South Creek again."
Ken Carlson, an attorney with Tracy, Johnson &amp; Wilson of Joliet, represents Tom Martin, the owner of the property, again did his best to dispel the rumors about the development of the farmland.
“For those who were here at the (Manteno) Plan Commission meeting, I mean facts are the facts,” he said. “The owner was here at the hearing. There is no plant, there is no contract, there are no discussions. That’s the fact. We’re bringing this in because it’s good for the village. This has nothing to do with any secretive deals anywhere, because there aren’t any.”
Carlson also said that when the property went from Bourbonnais to the county, the zoning then becomes the zoning of the nearest consistent zoning district.
“And your zoning is I-2 immediately east [of the property],” he said.
Manteno resident Bill Barnes asked if there are no plans and no client, then why is the village rushing it through as heavy industrial when Mayor Tim Nugent and two other trustees are leaving office later this month.
“This just screams of another secret Gotion deal,” he said. “Whether your client has somebody or not, if it’s light industrial, leave it light industrial. When you have a customer, somebody that comes in, a company, then you’ll rezone it. Then you know what you’re dealing with. Now, you’re just shooting in the dark.”
Joe Cainkar, Manteno village attorney, refuted that the property is being rushed through the process. He said talks on the annexation started back in 2023 when Manteno finalized a boundary agreement with Bourbonnais near the farmland.
“So to say that this is being pushed through at the last second, it’s just not true,” he said. “This has been in the works for a long time.”
Manteno resident Paul Motel, a Freedom Party trustee candidate in the April 1 election, said he understands zoning the land heavy industrial covers the village regardless of what might be potentially developed on the farmland.
“But that’s not what the residents want, and we know that by the results of the election on April 1,” he said.
The board said it was in the best interest of the village for the annexation and the rezoning so it will have say of any possible development. It would also allow for improvements to 1000E Road, a frontage road that runs parallel just east of Interstate 57.
“That’s why I voted in favor of it because I think the village should have control of property right on our doorstep,” Trustee Todd Crockett said.
Nugent added that all the village property adjacent to the newly-annexed farmland is already zoned heavy industrial.
“That was the type of zoning that the owners were requesting, because it helps them to go out and try to market that piece of property,” he said, adding he hasn’t talked to anyone interested in developing the farmland. “Somebody could call, but as of right now, there’s no plans in the works at all.”
ExpandManteno mayor-elect Annette LaMore reviews vote totals on Tuesday night with fellow Freedom Party candidates Peggy Vaughn, right, and Kerri Rolniak, left, during at a watch party at the Manteno American Legion. Vaughn won a village board seat and Rolniak won the village clerk race. (Tiffany Blanchette)
The Manteno Freedom Party won two seats on the six-member village board in Tuesday’s municipal election, as Peggy Vaughn was the top vote-getter with 1,515 votes.
Incumbent CJ Bourdeau, a member of the Manteno Choice Party, won one of the three seats with 1,316 votes (16.84%).
Just one vote separates Michael Barry and Paul Motel – 1,287 to 1,286, both Freedom Party members. A winner will be determined once the mail-in ballots are counted.
If the votes hold, the Manteno Choice Party will hold a 4-2 village board majority. 
“I am totally appreciative to everybody that came out and voted for us, and we will do our very best to make this town proud of us and keep everybody safe,” Vaughn said Tuesday night at the Freedom Party’s gathering at the American Legion. “I just can’t thank everybody enough that took the time to get us in office.”
Vaughn agreed that the voters sent a message.
Boudreau said he’s hopeful his election will be official once all the mail-in ballots are counted.
“I’m happy,” he said. “I cut through the decisiveness. There must be something I did that reached through people above everything else.”
Vaughn is no stranger to elections as she twice ran for mayor of Manteno. This will be her first public office as a village trustee.
The winner of the third trustee won’t be determined until all the mail-in ballots are counted, and the deadline for those ballots to be received at the county clerk’s office is April 15.
Kankakee County Clerk Dan Hendrickson said there were approximately 3,000 mail ballots sent out in the county. The Freedom Party said there were about 299 of those ballots in Manteno that will need to be counted.
Motel said it’s hard to tell who will get the final trustee seat.
“I’m newer to the community,“ he said. ”People may not believe that I love the community as much as them, and I understand that at the end of the day. I just hope whoever gets in will work together to reunite Manteno and make this the community that drew us all here again. That’s all I hope for.”
Motel moved to Manteno seven years ago from Palos Hills.
Manteno Freedom Party’s Kerri Rolniak won the village clerk race, garnering 1,427 votes to the Choice Party’s Stacy Malone’s 1,311 votes.
ExpandThe village of Manteno turned to Jasculca Terman Strategic Communications in Chicago to handle public relations for all the planning and board meetings surrounding the zoning change for the Gotion battery plant. (Daily Journal/Tiffany Blanchette, Tiffany Blanchette)
MANTENO – When the village of Manteno was inundated with calls, questions and information requests several months ago, it turned to a public relations firm for help.
It was the beginning of a contentious time for the village back in the fall of 2023, when the proposed Gotion lithium battery plant was seeking a change of zoning from light to heavy industrial at the 333 S. Spruce St. site.
The village turned to Jasculca Terman Strategic Communications in Chicago to handle public relations for all the planning and board meetings surrounding the zoning change.
Manteno paid the firm $47,268 over a three- to four-month period. 
The amount came under scrutiny by some area residents at Tuesday’s Village Board meeting.
During public comment, Diane Baker asked why the village paid a “high-end” PR firm, and why the fees weren’t paid by some other agency such as the Economic Alliance of Kankakee County or by Mayor Tim Nugent.
“It sounds to me like the Manteno village ... under Mayor Nugent is paying a publicity firm to push a private business on the backs of the taxpayers because these were paid from the general fund,” Baker said during public comment.
Nugent said the village was thrust into the international media during that time.
“We were getting calls and inquiries from not just around here, but from around the world, and we needed some people that were adept at public relations to help us maneuver [through] some of that,” he said.
Nugent said the village used the firm from October through December 2023.
The residents who oppose the Gotion plant filed Freedom of Information Act requests to find out when and how much the village paid the firm.
“The people of Manteno do not owe this company anything, and they should not be promoting it on the backs of Manteno citizens,“ Baker said. ”You should be ashamed of yourself. I think it’s a misappropriation of public funds, and I hope they look into it legally.”
Jasculca Terman Strategic Communications helped Manteno navigate all the requests, and it set up a question-and-answer portal on the village’s website to help provide information to residents.
“It helped address the concerns of the citizens,” Village Administrator Chris LaRocque said. “Obviously, Gotion coming into town was a big deal. It’s unprecedented, obviously, in this area, and I believe the mayor kind of orchestrated that and made the decision that we should probably have some help for some of the responses that were required for that development.”
The firm was used solely in response to handling the additional work required on the Gotion decision.
“We felt it was important to put a good message out to the community,” LaRocque said. “Obviously, the board was in favor of it, as well as all the other nine taxing districts who had public meetings. So, we wanted to make sure that we represented the village in a good light and represented that important project in a good light.”
accelerates out of the blocks in the boys 100-meter relay at the Manteno Invite on Friday
MANTENO − After starting the week with a first-place finish at the Tony Thorsen Invite on Tuesday, the <a href="https://www.shawlocal.com/tags/bishop-mcnamara-preps/" target="_blank" rel="" title="https://www.shawlocal.com/tags/bishop-mcnamara-preps/">Bishop McNamara</a> boys track and field team kept rolling with another first-place finish at the Manteno Invite on Friday
The Fightin’ Irish were up 103-95 over Dwight entering the final event
Although the Trojans managed to take first in the relay
David Quigley and Dashaun Whiters placed third to keep the Irish on top 109-105
Whiters, Felton, Rhys Landsmann and Jackson Kirchner got the team’s lone first-place finish in the 4x100 relay (45.28 s). 
They took second in five events, including Whiters, Landsmann, Felton and Jackson Kirchner placing second in the 4x200 relay (1:37.28). Whiters said that group is still looking to make strides the rest of the season. 
“Our 4x100 is already pretty strong, but me, Jackson, Willie and Rhys, we’re trying to drop our 4x200 time by just a little bit so we can be first in the sectional instead and second,” he said. “Other than that, we’re looking forward to state.”
Head coach Anthony Mason said he was also pleased with the team’s results lately as they now look to finish strong with Chicagoland Christian Conference Meet coming up in two and a half weeks and sectionals less than a month away. 
“The team has been running really well,” he said. “We had a really good meet at Dwight at the Tony Thorsen Meet on Tuesday. We won that, so to come out there to win this tonight is a good thing. We’re moving in the right direction.”
St. Anne-Donovan’s Aden Pinson took first place in the 100 meters (11.86 s) and 200 meters (24.22 s). Herscher’s distance runners came out on top, with Brayden Shepard winning the 1,600 meters (4:42.98) and Jeremy Szepelak winning the 3,200 meters (10:37.06). 
Kankakee’s Clifton Martin won the 400 meters (50.32 s) while Zyair Turner, George Jones, Zyon Turner and Phillip Turner won the 4x200 relay (1:33.93). Manteno’s Nicholas Honkisz took the 110-meter hurdles (16.84 s) and Carter Stell took the 300-meter hurdles (44.54 s). 
On the girls side, it was Central with 96 points clearing Manteno’s 76.5. The Comets had one first-place finish and four second-place finishes.
Momence placed third (75), Herscher was fifth (66), Beecher was sixth (64), Kankakee was seventh (55), Bishop McNamara was eighth (51.5), Peotone was ninth (30) and St. Anne-Donovan was 11th (4). 
Central head coach Rebecca Swigert-Fenton said she was glad to see lots of contributors to the team win, even with fifth or sixth place finishes. 
“I was really proud of how everybody chipped in,” she said. “So you’re not the fastest person on the team, that’s OK. You can find a spot and a way to help.”
Audra Prairie, Haley Behrends, Layla Koch and Alexis Schultz won the 4x800 relay (11:40.97). Eriannah Martinez placed second as part of both the 4x200 relay (2:02.88) and 4x400 relay (4:38.22) while also placing third in the 300-meter hurdles (54.10 s) and fifth in the long jump (4.28 m). 
“I think that we all work really hard and we all train really hard, so I’m proud of our performance,” she said. “Every meet we always do something a little bit better than last time. I just really like that we all work as a team and as a whole, and we all push ourselves to our hardest.”
As for the rest of the girls field, Momence’s Jaliyah Wright won the high jump (1.42 m) and 100 meters (13.39 s) while Ashley Smith won the 100-meter hurdles (20.95 s). Momence also took first in the 4x100 relay (53.77 s). 
Manteno had Klarke Goranson win the 400 meters (59.27 s), Lyla Nevel win the 3,200 meters (12:51.67) and Sophia Most win the discus (37.83 m). Kankakee’s TaLeah Turner won the long jump (4.54 m) and triple jump (9.73 m). 
Beecher had Brooklyn Burdick win the 1,600 meters (5:39.66). She was also part of the winning 4x400 relay team (4:35.43). Herscher took the 4x200 relay (1:59.98).
ExpandAfter much debate the contracts for Chris LaRocque, village administrator; Jim Hanley, superintendent of public works; and Alan Swinford, chief of police, were approved Monday by a 4-2 by the trustees. (Tiffany Blanchette)
MANTENO – One of the first decisions the new Manteno Village Board had to make was approving the contracts of existing officers for village administrator, superintendent of public works and chief of police.
After much debate, the contracts for Village Administrator Chris LaRocque, Superintendent of Public Works Jim Hanley and Chief of Police Alan Swinford were approved Monday by 4-2.
Trustees Mike Barry and Peggy Vaughn, the two Manteno Freedom Party board members, were the dissenting votes.
“It has nothing to do with the people that are working here,” Barry said. “To be honest, I don’t know exactly what their job titles are, what their roles are. ... I have nothing against any of the people, nothing against their jobs, but it would be nice for [more information], for there’s three new people that are on the board.”
Barry said he got his agenda packet Friday and spent part of the weekend getting up to speed.
It was suggested that the three could work without a contract until the other trustees and mayor could further evaluate the positions.
“Under the code, each officer has a one-year term,” village attorney Joe Cainkar said.
A motion was first made to table the vote until the new members and new Mayor Annette LaMore could get a feel for the positions and their duties. That motion was defeated 4-2, along party lines.
Manteno’s Choice Party holds four trustee seats, while the Freedom Party holds only two. 
Trustee Joel Gesky’s motion to approve the contracts was eventually approved. Trustee Todd Crockett said he understood the new members’ apprehension for voting on the contracts.
“These three individuals are very valuable people here to our village, and the second that it is known that they do not have a contract, my worry is that they will be poached immediately,” he said.
Gesky, who was defeated in the mayoral election, said the contracts give those individuals some protection until the mayor might choose to appoint someone else.
“This isn’t the ploy to steal an appointment from the mayor,” he said. “It allows them to continue doing the jobs that they’ve been doing for this whole time until the time of [a new] appointment and ratification is made.”
Any new appointments would have to be approved by the board.
The salary for Swinford is $124,381; Hanley, $127,681; and LaRocque, $132,974, plus a $30,000-per-year stipend for doing the building and zoning director job.
The contracts are at-will, and Cainkar explained that the mayor still has the power of appointment. If she wants to appoint someone else and gets the consent of the board, then the new person would take over. The outgoing officer would get three months of severance.
“I’m not saying we want to terminate them,” LaMore said. “We’re just asking for more time so we know a little bit more about what’s happening here.”
Boudreau said he voted for the contracts because the three have proven themselves, and their salaries are comparable with other communities. He added that the police department is young, so it’s good to have someone with Swinford’s qualifications.
“We need an experienced leader to kind of keep our police department great,” he said. “I’ve never heard any complaints about our police department.”
Gesky said concerns that people have expressed with the current board are rooted in the Gotion battery plant decision.
“Our differences that we’ve had haven’t involved any of these people,” he said. “... This is designed because we need them. If we were not to give them a contract tonight, all three of these gentlemen would give them your resignations tomorrow. This town turns upside down in a hurry, because you lose a lot.”
LaMore said she and the new trustees were elected because they stand for change and for transparency.
“It’s obvious to me that we have no voting power tonight,” she said. “It’s very obvious to me, so everything is going to stay just the way it is. I guess we just have to wait and see what happens.”
ExpandSigns opposing the arrival of the Gotion battery manufacturing plant to Manteno are displayed in yards around the village in January 2024. The opposition is in line with the efforts of a local group, Concerned Citizens of Manteno. (Daily Journal/Tiffany Blanchette)
MANTENO – Tuesday’s municipal election in Manteno signaled not only a changing of the guard at the top with Annette LaMore defeating Joel Gesky for mayor, but it also spoke for change in the village in northern Kankakee County.
With Interstate 57 intersecting the village on the western edge and its proximity to Chicago, Manteno has been ripe for commercial and industrial expansion in the past few years.
The announcement of the Gotion lithium battery factory taking ownership of the vacant Kmart warehouse in September of 2023 divided the village of 9,200.
Approximately 30 people, including many members of the Concerned Citizens of Manteno, at right, attended the public comment portion of the Manteno Village Board meeting on Dec. 18, 2023 at the Leo T. Hassett Community Center.  (Daily Journal/Tiffany Blanchette)
LaMore’s Manteno Freedom Party was sparked by its opposition to the Gotion plant. She won the mayor’s seat with 55.5% of the 2,767 votes cast, not including mail-in ballots.
The Freedom Party also won two of the three village trustee seats that were up for election.
“These numbers are amazing,” said Paul Motel, who ran as a Freedom Party candidate for village trustee, of the vote totals. “For grassroots candidates to stand toe-to-toe with a five-term trustee running for mayor, this is [amazing]. I am proud of being a part of this history here.”
On election night, LaMore referenced a Manteno Vedette newspaper story, where Geksy said Gotion was good for Manteno – it was key in the election.
“I know he’s done some good things, but his pro-Gotion stance hurt him,” she said.
On Wednesday, Geksy said it absolutely hurt his campaign.
“That was their whole platform – Gotion,” he said. “There was not a single other thing brought up by them. You look at the whole countywide elections, [Bourbonnais] Mayor [Paul] Schore is out because they made up a story about him putting Gotion workers in the Cigna building. That’s OK. I’m still sitting in that [trustee] chair for two more years, so I’m not going anywhere.”
Manteno Mayor Tim Nugent and board members listen during public comment at the Manteno Village Board meeting on Dec. 18, 2023 at the Leo T. Hassett Community Center. (Daily Journal/Tiffany Blanchette)
Motel is currently one vote behind fellow Freedom Party candidate Michael Barry for the final trustee spot (1,287-1,286). The winner will be determined once all the mail-in ballots are counted after the April 15 deadline.
Freedom Party trustee candidate Peggy Vaughn had the highest total with 1,515 votes, followed by incumbent CJ Boudreau, of the Manteno Choice Party, with 1,316 votes. Choice Party’s Annette Zimbelman had 1,215 votes and Sherri Crawford 1,194.
“We have to keep moving forward,” Boudreau said. “People have spoken, but we have to find a pathway to going forward.”
LaMore said Tuesday she had already spoken with Boudreau.
“He plays euchre with me on Thursday nights sometimes,” LaMore said. “I saw him and I said, ‘CJ, it doesn’t matter whoever gets elected, we’re all going to work together, because our goal is to do what’s best for Manteno.’ ”
What is best for Manteno will likely be up for debate moving forward with the Choice Party still holding four of the six board seats. Is the Freedom Party going to vote against all and every industrial development that is presented to the village?
LaMore has said she is against projects that would be a threat to the safety and security of Manteno residents.
Gesky said as a board, it is in favor of “controlled development.”
“If you’re not moving forward, you’re moving backwards,” he said. “We don’t want to live in Buckley. If we do, move down there, there’s no development there.”
Motel said during public comment at Wednesday’s Plan Commission meeting, “the people spoke” on Tuesday in the election and there will be changes moving forward.
The Concerned Citizens of Manteno are entrenched in a lawsuit with the village of Manteno over the change of zoning for the Gotion plant at 333 S. Spruce St. in Manteno from light industrial to heavy industrial.
LaMore was the driving force behind the suit for the Concerned Citizens, but she said she’s stepping away from that role.
Members of the Concerned Citizens of Manteno gather outside the Kankakee County Courthouse for a demonstration  ahead of the hearing for their case against Gotion, the battery manufacturer opening in Manteno, on Jan. 14, 2025. (Daily Journal/Tiffany Blanchette)
“Because now that I’m going to be aligned with the village and the village is part of the lawsuit, I have to walk away from that,” she said. “But if I have the votes on the board to stop our support of Gotion, I would definitely stop supporting Gotion because I don’t think it’s good for us.”
The next hearing in the case was scheduled for April 28, but it has been continued until May 14.
ExpandManteno mayor-elect Annette LaMore reacts as vote totals show her in the lead on Tuesday night during at a watch party at the Manteno American Legion. LaMore secured the village president seat in the election. (Tiffany Blanchette)
MANTENO – Manteno residents voted for change on Tuesday in the municipal election as Manteno Freedom Party mayoral candidate Annette LaMore defeated Joel Gesky, a village trustee and Manteno Choice Party candidate, 1,536-1,231.
LaMore, a one-time village trustee, won 55.5% of the vote. She will replace longtime Mayor Tim Nugent, who decided not to seek re-election.
“So there will be challenges for me, but I’m an honest person, and when I don’t know the answers, I’ll talk to people who are smarter than me, and I’ll put it together with the board and we will work it out.”
Surrounded by fellow Manteno Freedom Party candidates and supporters, Manteno mayor-elect Annette LaMore gives a victory speech on Tuesday night during at a watch party at the Manteno American Legion. (Tiffany Blanchette)
It was a good day for the Freedom Party as two trustees – Peggy Vaughn and either Paul Motel or Michael Barry – will also sit on the village board. Only one vote separates Motel and Barry, and the winner will likely be determined once all mail-in ballots are counted.
LaMore, who served as a village trustee from 2009-13, said people see her as a real person. She said Gesky and the Manteno Choice Party’s support of the Gotion lithium battery plant, that is opening soon, hurt their cause.
“I just want what’s best for Manteno, and I don’t see chemicals and Chinese Communists as a good thing for our town,” LaMore said. “I had my own feelings about it, and I think that did divide the community, but now we found out that most people feel the same way I do.”
LaMore also said the results show that people were ready for a change of leadership.
“You can tell [Tuesday] night people are so happy,” she said. “I know I’ve got a busy road ahead of me, challenges, and I’m going to face them one day at a time.”
There were some personal attacks on social media the past two weeks against LaMore, saying she was responsible for the Manteno Golf Course closing in 2021. She was on the golf board but left as president in 2019.
“That hurt them,” she said. “Who does that? Do good people do that? No, not in my world. They were hoping that would stick, and that people would believe that so it would be less votes for me. 
“That’s pretty dirty, because I’ve been nothing but a good volunteer. I don’t need to be paid for helping do things that I believe in, and I was passionate about the golf course.”
ExpandA proposal to build an outdoor police gun range behind the Manteno Public Works building has been tabled. (Sub)
MANTENO – Feedback received from a proposed outdoor police gun range being built behind the Manteno Village Public Works Department building has led to the plan being tabled.
Manteno Trustee Joel Gesky posted on social media Wednesday night that he and fellow Trustee CJ Boudreau met with resident Greg Olejarz and his wife after Monday’s Village Board meeting.
The Olejarz family lives just south of the public works building on North Maple Street near Legacy Park.
When reached by phone Thursday, Gesky said the proposal for a gun range would be tabled for at least six months.
“We’ve got to look at other options,” he said. “What else is there available, and what makes sense? And we’re asking for public input. ... It was never a done deal, and we were exploring our options.”
Gesky, who is running for Manteno mayor in the April 1 election, said he and Boudreau reviewed the family’s concerns and decided that since the initial concept of the gun range has been introduced, more discussion and a “thorough investigation” is needed before any formal proposal is made.
“This includes exploring alternative, cost-effective locations to ensure the best possible outcome,“ Gesky said in the post. ”As a result, I have requested that this topic be tabled until a more comprehensive evaluation can be completed. Our primary responsibility as elected officials is to prioritize public safety while responsibly managing costs.”
Gesky said the village still would like to have a local police gun range facility and realizes that it’s always going to be in someone’s backyard. He understood the Olejarzes' objections because they have young children.
“It’s responsible for us to look at other options,” he said.
Gesky said the dirt being removed from the pond that is being expanded for fishing in Legacy Park still will be used to build a berm on the south side of the public works property. This will provide screening for the Olejarz property.
Attempts to contact Olejarz for comment were unsuccessful. 
Police Chief Alan Swinford had suggested it would be nice to have a firing range in Manteno so his officers don’t have to drive to Bradley, Kankakee or Peotone to do their mandatory gun certification training. The training would take place four or five times a year.
ExpandManteno Mayor Annette LaMore leads her first village board meeting on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the Leo Hassett Community Center. (Tiffany Blanchette)
MANTENO – For Annette LaMore, becoming mayor of Manteno wasn’t something she thought about six months or even a year ago.
It’s something she’s wanted for a long time – 12 years to be almost exact.
“I’ve been very excited about this,” said LaMore after being sworn in Monday night at the village board meeting. 
“I thought about running a long time ago in 2013,” she said. “And when I finished my first term in office [as a trustee], but it just wasn’t the right time for me. I love being in a position like this. I’m comfortable here, except I did make a lot of tiny mistakes tonight, but I’ll get better on that.”
LaMore’s mistakes were minor in getting the feel for running the board meeting, following the sequence of items on the agenda and knowing when a motion is needed and when to call for a vote. 
“I’ll get better on that,” she said. “I’m not too worried about it, but I think together, we’re going to do good things in Manteno, and I think people are going to notice change. They will notice change.”
LaMore was sworn in along with new trustees Mike Barry and Peggy Vaughn along with newly-elected clerk Keri Rolniak. It signaled a beginning for the four – all members of the Manteno Freedom Party.
Also sworn in was CJ Boudreau, who was appointed last summer to fill the unexpired term of Sam Martin, and was re-elected April 1.
Boudreau, a Manteno Choice Party candidate, sits with fellow party members Todd Crockett, Joel Gesky and Annette Zimbelman. Zimbelman was selected two weeks ago by outgoing Mayor Tim Nugent to replace Wendell Phillips, who resigned due to health reasons.
The Choice Party will hold a 4-2 edge on any votes before the board.
“I’m glad we have a little bit of diversity here, because before we didn’t have much at all,” LaMore said. “Everybody always voted for everything. So this is what makes a board good, when you have people with different ideas coming together and talking and giving different opinions.”
LaMore is well aware of the majority that the Choice Party maintains. It bothers her a little, but she’s not deterred.
“So I guess I have to work hard, communicate with the people who don’t want to vote my way, and maybe we’ll come to an agreement sometime,” she said. “That’s what I’m hoping for.”
LaMore also said her goal is to be fair, honest and “absolutely” be transparent.
“All the things I said [Monday night], I tried to say in a nice way,” she said. “I don’t want anybody’s feelings to get hurt, because I’m not in a hurry to hire somebody. But so far, we haven’t been allowed to make very many decisions, because we’re so outnumbered.” 
LaMore also noted there’s a wide range of age groups among the trustees, and they’re not always supposed to think alike.
“We’re supposed to see the things that we see and vote our hearts so our differences are what’s going to make our community better,” she said. “Because we’re going to pick and choose, and we’re going to vote for what’s good and come out with the best solutions, because together we’re better than we are separately.”
Monday’s first board meeting was also a learning experience for Barry.
“We’re new, and I just feel that I want to work together with everybody,” he said. “... I’m an open-minded individual. I’ve been doing construction for a long time. I’m pretty knowledgeable about a lot of stuff. I just feel like [Monday night’s] meeting, there was a lot thrown on our plate, a lot of big decisions thrown on our plate.”
Once the nearly 90-minute meeting came to a close, Barry said he appreciated the assistance from the longtime board members and village administrator Chris LaRocque, who answered a couple of his questions about agenda items.
“I’m looking forward to working with everybody here, and hopefully we can work together,” he said. “We’re not going to agree to disagree all the time, but that’s what makes government good, the best. Transparency is huge for me. So if anybody would ever need anything, please reach out to me.”
During her time to speak at the end of the meeting, Vaughn said winning the election was not just a personal dream, but a collective victory.
“I’m deeply honored to have your trust and support,” Vaughn said. “First and foremost, I want to thank each and every one of you who believed in us, supported our campaign and cast your vote. Your confidence in our vision, our leadership is profoundly humbling.”
Vaughn said they need to move forward together and make the village the best it can be.
“It’s a good village,” she said. “We all live here. We all love it, and I think we can build a bright future. I want to see our town safe, ... and I just hope that we can all work together to make this a great town.”
Boudreau said he was thankful for the opportunity to serve as trustee again, and he’s committed as a lifelong “Mantenoan.”
“I didn’t know anybody 10 months ago who was on the board, and now I do,” he said. “... I just met Mike [Barry] tonight. I really find that this could be a really good thing again.”
ExpandIllinois' Josh Gesky (73) holds up the Land of Lincoln trophy after defeating Northwestern in an NCAA college football game at Wrigley Field on Saturday
One of the best offensive linemen in the Big Ten will be returning home next month to host his inaugural youth football camp
a two-time honorable mention All-Big Ten and Academic All-Big Ten guard at the University of Illinois
will host the first Josh Gesky Youth Offensive Line Camp on Saturday
Josh Gesky camp flyer (Submitted by RJ Haines)
and will feature a day of offensive line instruction
All proceeds will go to Lurie Children’s Hospital in Manteno
To register, visit <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeUNhfT7PTJggXMrCXOc3BmmJ_JKw__qyA10-VJ5iq8abcbyg/viewform" target="_blank" rel="" title="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeUNhfT7PTJggXMrCXOc3BmmJ_JKw__qyA10-VJ5iq8abcbyg/viewform">http://bit.ly/42LfXjb</a>. After registration, an email with payment options will be sent. Payments are due April 30.
For questions or more information, email joshgeskyfootballcamp@gmail.com.
ExpandSherri Crawford (Photo provided by Sherri Crawford /Rosewood Acres)
What office are you seeking? VILLAGE OF MANTENO TRUSTEE
What is your political party? THE MANTENO CHOICE PARTY
Occupation and employer: Real Estate Broker, Coldwell Banker
What offices, if any, have you previously held? I have not held any political offices.
Education: Bachelor Degree in Business and Communications from Eastern Illinois University
Master’s Degree in Business from Governors State University.
Community Involvement: Member, St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation Board of Directors
President, Junior League of Kankakee County
Member, Board of Directors for the Manteno Chamber of Commerce
Marital status/Immediate family: I am single and have two wonderful sons. Harry, 25, lives in Nashville, TN, and Hayden, 24, lives in Corona, New Mexico.
I believe the greatest weakness facing our community right now is the feeling that some residents don’t feel fully heard or involved in the decision-making process. Transparency is key to building trust, and I understand that many feel there could be more openness in how decisions are made.
The greatest strength of our community is the sense of unity and pride that residents share. Manteno is a place where people know each other, support one another, and come together to build a better future. Whether it’s through local events, volunteer efforts, or simply looking out for each other, there is a deep sense of belonging that makes this town so special. This spirit of collaboration and community is what makes Manteno not just a place to live, but a place to thrive.
This is a national and state directive, and as a community, we will follow the guidelines and requirements set forth by those governing bodies.
Balancing economic development with environmental sustainability is crucial for the long-term success of our community. It’s especially important to strike a balance between encouraging economic development and maintaining our environmental responsibility. The key is to focus on growth that complements our community’s values and needs, while also ensuring that we’re not compromising the natural resources and beauty that make Manteno unique.
To achieve this, we can start by supporting local businesses that prioritize sustainable practices, such as using energy-efficient technologies or reducing waste. As we attract new businesses, we can encourage green initiatives like building projects that incorporate renewable energy, water conservation, and environmentally-friendly materials.
Enhancing public transportation and infrastructure is all about making the most of what we have, while planning for future growth. My plans would focus on improving accessibility, ensuring that our residents have reliable options, and creating infrastructure that is sustainable and connected. I would also like to see our public transportation system expanded to include a shuttle to O’Hare Airport, similar to the shuttle currently offered to Midway Airport.
When it comes to infrastructure, I believe in maintaining our current roads, bridges, and utilities while investing in upgrades that improve safety and quality of life. This might include repairing sidewalks, adding bike lanes, and improving street lighting for safer, more walkable areas.
By focusing on smart, sustainable upgrades and listening to the needs of our community, we can enhance our public transportation and infrastructure in ways that support both our residents and the continued growth of Manteno
The city council should serve as a strong partner and advocate for local businesses and economic growth. Our role is to create an environment where businesses—both small and large—can succeed, innovate, and contribute to the prosperity of the community.
We should also work to attract new businesses to Manteno by promoting our town’s strengths—our central location, affordable cost of living, and access to transportation networks. Supporting local business events, networking opportunities, and creating incentives for businesses to invest in the community will also help stimulate growth.
My top public safety concerns for Manteno center around ensuring the safety of our residents and preventing crime. While Manteno is a generally safe town, I believe there are always areas where we can improve to keep our community safe and secure.
First and foremost, continuing to strengthen the relationship between law enforcement, emergency services, and the community is essential. By fostering an environment of open communication and mutual respect, we can build trust and ensure that our first responders are truly integrated with the needs of our residents. I believe in ensuring that our police and emergency services are well-supported with the resources and training they need to effectively respond to any situation.
Ensuring that city policies promote inclusion for all residents is a top priority for me. An inclusive community is one where every person, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances, feels respected, valued, and has an opportunity to thrive.
First, I believe in making sure our policies and programs are designed with the diverse needs of our community in mind. This means engaging with residents from all walks of life—whether it’s through town hall meetings, surveys, or direct outreach—so that we understand their concerns and aspirations. Policies should be inclusive, whether it’s about access to services, affordable housing, or equitable opportunities for employment and education.
I strongly support the idea of requiring government officials to publicly disclose potential conflicts of interest. Transparency is key to maintaining the trust of our residents, and when public officials have clear and open disclosures, it helps ensure that decisions are being made with the community’s best interests in mind.
To enforce this, I would work to implement a clear and accessible process for officials to disclose any potential conflicts, whether financial, personal, or professional, on a regular basis.
Accessibility is vital- the community will have direct access to me via email and as a Real Estate Broker, my phone number is easy to find!
ExpandGotion workers prepare an assembly line in October for filling temperature-controlled battery storage containers with batteries at the Manteno site. (Tiffany Blanchette)
Since buying the former Kmart distribution center in Manteno in 2023, Gotion has continued to purchase land surrounding the plant at 333 S. Spruce St.
Gotion is transforming the 1.5-million-square-foot facility into a lithium battery manufacturing plant.
The Daily Journal reported in May of 2024 that Gotion purchased about 231 acres split between two parcels for $17.5 million, according to Kankakee County tax records. That land was acquired by limited liability companies in Freemont, Calif., where Gotion has its U.S. headquarters, and it allows the China-owned company to build out its power plant for future use.
Since that purchase in May that included land directly west of its plant all the way to U.S. Route 45-52, Gotion has bought additional land west of U.S. Route 45-52 to Career Center Road (County Road 1000W) in Bourbonnais. All of that land is bordered on the north by West Division Street (County Road 9000N).
The land encompasses 271 acres, including two homes, and sold for a combined $23.97 million in November. The biggest parcel was 246 acres of farmland and a home. There were four other tracts of land that sold for $450,000 each and one with a home that sold for $470,000. Each was 5 acres in size.
“It was to facilitate the placing of the high-power lines [that connect the plant to a ComEd station],” said Chris LaRocque, Manteno village administrator. “They tried to secure easements to do that. They had trouble getting the easements, so they decided to purchase the land.”
The land has been referred to as Nugent family farmland on a website gotionlandgrab.com, that has tracked all the purchases. The land was once owned by the brother of Manteno Mayor Tim Nugent. The brother died in 1979, and the land was owned by his widow and five grown children.
“She had given each one of the five kids, five acres to build the house, and a couple of them had built houses, and we’re living out there,” he said. “… So when Gotion bought the property, they ended up buying the five acre parcels from her kids and then the remainder of the farm from her.”
Nugent said he has no financial connection to his extended family members.
“There’s a Nugent name on some of this stuff at some point in time, but it’s got absolutely nothing to do with me,” he said. “Everybody who’s named Nugent doesn’t share all the all the money that they get, or, just like I don’t share with them any money that I make.
He said it sounds good for their narrative some might be trying to portray.
“I guess I had this all planned out from 46 years ago when my brother passed away,” he said. “It’s crazy, but what can do.”
Gotion has built a power plant on its site and having direct access to the ComEd power lines was crucial. ComEd is constructing the necessary infrastructure/power lines, and Gotion will pay the power company to do the work, Nugent said.
Previously, Gotion purchased three homes in the Eagles Landing subdivision across the road from the plant to house some of its employees who are currently working at the plant.
It also bought a 6-acre parcel directly across from the plant on West Division Street from the plant. That purchase totaled $625,000.
“It’s just a commercial lot, and that was part of the original sale when [Gotion] bought the plant,” LaRocque said.
Originally, the sale of the former Kmart distribution center in Manteno closed on Dec. 15, 2023. The owner, Transform Manteno IL LLC, sold two parcels of property for $139.5 million to 333 South Spruce LLC in care of Gotion Inc., 48660 Kato Road, Freemont, Calif.
Gotion has spent a total of $183 million in its purchase of 672 acres, including the plant and surrounding land and property. All the purchases have been tracked and put on a website, gotionlandgrab.com.
Darrel Bruck, who is the spokesman for Outrage of Kankakee County, a local government watchdog, said the gotionlandgrab.com was created by supporters of the Concerned Citizens of Manteno.
The CCOM is a grassroots organization that opposes the Gotion factory. It opposes the plant because of health and safety concerns and alleges Gotion has ties to the Chinese Communist Party.
“The whole thing is a travesty,” Bruck said.
All the land and property purchases have been legal transactions and have been recorded in the Kankakee County recorder’s office.
“There’s nothing illegal about buying the land,” LaRocque said. “It’s an American company.”
https://daily-journal.com/news/local/gotion-buys-more-land-around-its-plant/article_d03afb62-ced6-11ef-8361-7711caf97177.html
ExpandFILE – A “Vote Here” sign in front of the Kankakee County Clerk’s Office (Daily Journal/Taylor Leddin-McMaster)
Voters in <a href="https://www.shawlocal.com/tags/kankakee-county/" target="_blank" rel="" title="https://www.shawlocal.com/tags/kankakee-county/">Kankakee County</a> this election determined who will make the important decisions regarding their communities, schools, townships, fire departments, parks and libraries.
Tuesday marked the last day mail-in ballots had to arrive at county clerk’s offices and still be counted. Provisional ballots also had to be addressed by that time.
Totals for all counties will be made official this week after they are canvassed. 
The Manteno High School Chamber Choir learned of their most prominent opportunity yet while walking into class Dec
2 — three weeks after auditioning to sing the national anthem at the Bears' game Sunday against the Lions at Soldier Field
Director of choral activities Sean Hoffmann answered a call from the team at the beginning of class
Hoffman wrote "W" on a post-it note and held it up to the room
"Everybody dropped all their books and stuff," junior Luke Morin said
It was a very naturally happy moment and I'm so glad that we got to have that together."
The choir won the Bears' annual national anthem contest
Ten finalists visited Halas Hall in November to audition in front of a panel of judges that included team reporter Lauren Screeden and public address announcer Tim Sinclair
"We were so fortunate to have an array of amazing talented singers who came to Halas Hall
but our judges unanimously chose these students," Bears director of events and game presentation Katlin Strange said
Hoffman learned of the opportunity through one of his students
While Hoffman initially thought the contest would be a great solo opportunity for one of his students
he decided to contact the Bears and ask if they were open to a group performance
watching his students audition for and ultimately win the competition was a highlight of his teaching career and fulfilled the main reason he became an educator
I knew it was all about providing opportunities for kids
and I don't think there's anything bigger than a national stage like this," Hoffmann said
"I'm just happy that we're able to provide these awesome kids with such a great opportunity
They sing the national anthem at basketball games
It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I'm just happy they were poised enough to do this."
Poise is exactly what the 24 choir students brought to Soldier Field on Sunday
After one rehearsal at midfield in the morning
the students were brought back onto the grass following pregame player introductions
Hoffmann knew his students were ready for the moment
They wouldn't be overwhelmed by the grand stage
the choir performed a beautiful rendition of the national anthem in front of nearly 60,000 fans and their hometown NFL team
not going to lie," Hoffmann said immediately after the performance
"I've always been a huge sports fan and appreciate the musicality that performers bring to it
To have our students be a part of that in such a cool venue
They went out there and were poised and mature
As their big moment concluded and the ceremonious flyover commenced
Morin called it "one of their best performances ever."
"It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience," Morin said as he walked off the field
"I'm so happy we were given the opportunity to do this
I couldn't imagine doing something like this — it's like a dream come true."
All three defensive prospects the Bears selected in the draft possess traits that first-year coordinator Dennis Allen covets in all his players
The Bears spent five of their eight picks in last week's draft on offensive players
First-year offensive coordinator Declan Doyle recently shared his thoughts about those prospects exclusively with ChicagoBears.com
Bears employees Krista Fortman and Pete Spizzirri received prestigious awards Thursday at the team's all-staff quarterly meeting at Halas Hall
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health
STREATOR – Streator’s Blaize Bressner came through for <a href="https://www.shawlocal.com/tags/streator-preps/" target="_blank" rel="" title="https://www.shawlocal.com/tags/streator-preps/">the Bulldogs</a> in the bottom of the sixth inning Monday
RBI single up the middle to put the home team ahead
<a href="https://www.shawlocal.com/tags/manteno-preps/" target="_blank" rel="" title="https://www.shawlocal.com/tags/manteno-preps/">Manteno</a>’s Connor Harrod did him one better in the top of the seventh
two-run single to right-center to give the visiting Panthers an eventual 5-3 series-opening win at the SHS Athletic Fields
making [the defense] make plays,” Harrod said
got a fastball on the outside half and was able to hit a single
Illinois Central Eight baseball: MID 7 Manteno ties it thanks to 2 Streator throwing errors, takes the lead on this Connor Harrod 2-run single. It’s <a href="https://twitter.com/MHSBaseballV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MHSBaseballV</a> 5, <a href="https://twitter.com/StreatorSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StreatorSports</a> 3.Streator has 8-9-1 due up … <a href="https://t.co/R8see3lJBT">pic.twitter.com/R8see3lJBT</a>
6-3 Illinois Central Eight Conference) went for the ICE series sweep Tuesday when they hosted the Bulldogs (9-13
All five runs allowed by Streator were unearned
the direct result of five fielding errors – including two throwing that made Manteno’s seventh-inning comeback possible
“The last out of the ballgame is always the hardest out to get,” Streator coach Beau Albert said
It’s been several of us throughout the season
“We’ve just got to find a way to finish ballgames.”
Manteno’s top-of-the-seventh rally opened with the first of Streator’s two errors in the inning
permitting leadoff man Tyler Buehler aboard
Streator reliever and losing pitcher Isaiah Weibel (1 IP
but the second throwing error of the inning allowed Buehler to score and Braden Campbell to reach as the eventual go-ahead run
Maddox Toepper followed with a double to put two in scoring position for Harrod
who lined it into right-center to put the Panthers ahead 5-3
obviously that’s pretty easy to defend,” Panthers coach Matt Beckner said
and then Connor came up with the big hit.”
Streator did get the potential tying run to the plate in the bottom half thanks to a Colin Byers double
1 K) got a strikeout to preserve the win for reliever Gio Arrigo (3 IP
Things looked brighter for Streator heading into the fateful seventh
After Joe Hoeskstra drew a leadoff walk and courtesy runner Carson Shinkey advanced to third on a passed ball and a Clay Christoff sacrifice bunt
Bressner stepped in and delivered a two-out liner up the middle to score Shinkey with what at the time seemed likely to be the winning run
Illinois Central Eight baseball: Blaize Bressner delivers this 2-out, 2-strike hit to score the go-ahead run for <a href="https://twitter.com/StreatorSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StreatorSports</a> . It’s Streator 3, Manteno 2, heading to the 7th.<a href="https://twitter.com/MHSBaseballV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MHSBaseballV</a> with 2-3-4 due up … <a href="https://t.co/tXVd0ICYU4">pic.twitter.com/tXVd0ICYU4</a>
“I knew there was a guy at third and two outs,” Bressner said, “so we needed something hit to the outfield, probably. I just tried to simplify it and get something up the middle. That’s what I’ve been trying to do all year – not focusing on hitting bombs, just solid contact."
Bressner finished with two singles and an RBI for Streator, while No. 3 hitter Cole Winterrowd had a double in the third inning and two RBIs. Jake Hagie (6 IP, 2 R, 0 ER, 8 H, 1 BB, 8 K) had to settle for a no-decision.
Harrod (3 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, 4 BB, 3 K) was the starter for Manteno before becoming the late-game hero with his two-run single, the second of his two hits on the day. Buehler finished with two hits, while Toepper went 4 for 4 with two doubles and two runs scored.
Illinois Central Eight baseball: MID 7 Manteno ties it thanks to 2 Streator throwing errors, takes the lead on this Connor Harrod 2-run single. It’s <a href=\"https://twitter.com/MHSBaseballV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@MHSBaseballV</a> 5, <a href=\"https://twitter.com/StreatorSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@StreatorSports</a> 3.Streator has 8-9-1 due up … <a href=\"https://t.co/R8see3lJBT\">pic.twitter.com/R8see3lJBT</a>
Illinois Central Eight baseball: Blaize Bressner delivers this 2-out, 2-strike hit to score the go-ahead run for <a href=\"https://twitter.com/StreatorSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@StreatorSports</a> . It’s Streator 3, Manteno 2, heading to the 7th.<a href=\"https://twitter.com/MHSBaseballV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@MHSBaseballV</a> with 2-3-4 due up … <a href=\"https://t.co/tXVd0ICYU4\">pic.twitter.com/tXVd0ICYU4</a>
ExpandThe Manteno Public Works building is on North Maple Street adjacent to Legacy Park. (Village of Manteno)
MANTENO — After the village of Manteno completed the construction of its new public works building in the second half of 2023, the department realized it didn’t quite have enough room for storage of miscellaneous equipment.
“We built the building plenty big enough for all the essential equipment,” said Jim Hanley, superintendent of public works at Monday’s village board meeting. “It’s just a lot of the material stuff does not pack well in that building.”
Through discussions during recent Public Works Committee meetings, the village decided to build a cold storage building behind the new Public Works building on North Maple Street.
The board unanimously approved a contract Monday with Piggush Simoneau Inc., of Kankakee, for $298,298 to construct s 66-foot-by-136-foot building.
“We’re going to have a little more space to grow into,” Hanley said.
The minimal building with a 16-foot-high ceiling and two garage doors will allow for storage of cold patch, light poles and park equipment when it’s not being used and things of that nature.
“We can keep stuff out of the elements,” Hanley said. “… There’s quite a bit of stuff.”
Construction on the cold storage building won’t start until the spring and will take approximately three months to be completed.
With the Sunday-Monday snowfall of 2 inches in Kankakee County, according to the National Weather Service, the village’s policy on snow removal was brought up at the board meeting.
Trustee Diane Dole reminded residents that after a snowfall of 2 inches or more, residents shouldn’t park on village streets, opting for their driveways, per village ordinance.
“It is advisable to remove your vehicle as soon as it begins to snow,” she said. “This parking restriction shall be in effect for the entire village during any snow fall of 2 inches or more, and shall remain in effect for a minimum of 24 hours after the snowfall ends, and until the street in question is completely cleared from curb to curb.”
Any person in violation could have his or her vehicle towed at the owner’s expense and subject to a fine not to exceed $200.
Mayor Tim Nugent said the ordinance was instituted this past year.
“The whole purpose is not going to say to tow your vehicles,” he said. “The purpose is to try to keep the streets clear so the snow plows can get through.”
Police Chief Alan Swinford said the police department hasn’t towed a vehicle yet.
“That’s a last resort,” Swinford said. “We’ll try really hard, we’ll go to the door multiple times, call on the phone, talk to neighbors, whatever.”
Swinford said the police work with the public works department to get the cars moved.
“They’ll call us and let us know a car needs to be moved, and we’ll go over there and run the plate and try to contact the owner,” he said. “If they can get it moved in some reasonable amount of time, I don’t think we’ve towed a car yet.”
Hanley said the village just received a 150-ton delivery of salt and has used about 75 tons so far this winter. He suggested that when residents plow their own driveway, not to push the snow into the street, but to move it to either side of the driveway.
“That [snow] is either going to end up back in your driveway or your neighbor’s driveway,” he said. “… That was a couple of things that we noticed, but, all in all, it’s been a pretty soft winter so far. A couple times where we get more of this freezing rain or a half inch of snow, basically all we’re doing is throwing salt.”
https://daily-journal.com/news/local/manteno-oks-extra-public-works-building/article_7751887e-cc95-11ef-aad3-53213e3df4df.html
ExpandMembers of the Concerned Citizens of Manteno gather outside the Kankakee County Courthouse for a demonstration Tuesday ahead of the hearing for their case against Gotion, the battery manufacturer opening in Manteno. (Tiffany Blanchette)
A status hearing was held Tuesday at the Kankakee County Courthouse on the ongoing civil case of the Concerned Citizens of Manteno vs. Transform Manteno LLC, which is the Gotion lithium battery manufacturer, and the Village of Manteno.
During the hearing, Circuit Judge Lindsay Parkhurst continued the case for 90 days to give both sides time to respond and reply on the motion to dismiss.
The Concerned Citizens of Manteno, the plaintiffs, filed suit in December 2023 regarding Manteno’s rezoning of the then-proposed lithium battery factory at the former Kmart distribution center at 333 S. Spruce St. in Manteno for Gotion, a Chinese manufacturer. Transform Manteno LLC (Gotion) and the Village of Manteno are the defendants.
On Sept. 30, 2024, Judge Parkhurst ruled in favor of the defendants to dismiss the case without prejudice in four of the five counts in Kankakee Circuit Court, according to court documents. By ruling without prejudice the plaintiffs (Concerned Citizens) were able to file an amended complaint within 45 days.
The defendants then filed again to dismiss the amended case on Dec. 30, 2024. Both the Village of Manteno and Gotion filed separate motions to dismiss the case.
Joe Cainkar, the attorney for the village of Manteno, and Daria Porter, the attorney representing Gotion, were in court Tuesday for a status hearing. Representing the plaintiffs in court were David Bergdahl and Robby Dube, via Zoom.
“We would like 45 days to respond because there’s two motions to dismiss,” Dube asked Parkhurst. “And if possible we’d like to do a consolidated opposition like we did last time.”
Parkhurst granted the plaintiffs 45 days to respond and the consolidated opposition to the motions to dismiss.
“You can file one and deal with both arguments, but they’ve got to be separated out [for each issue],” she said.
The defendants will then have 45 days to reply. Parkhurst set the next hearing on motion to dismiss for 10 a.m. April 28.
“Both of us filed our respective motions to dismiss again for the second amended complaint,” said Cainkar of the village and Gotion’s filings on Dec. 30.
Both sides agreed 45 days was enough time to file their motions on the dismissal.
The property was rezoned from light industrial to heavy industrial in November 2023, which the plaintiffs argued was against the village’s municipal code.
https://daily-journal.com/news/local/gotion-civil-case-continued-for-90-days/article_79a5f516-d2a7-11ef-85ae-9f0cc7f4b5c4.html
ExpandKendall L. Dunn (Provided by Kankakee County Sheriff&#x27;s Department)
MANTENO – Kankakee Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group recovered eight firearms during a search of a Manteno man’s residence Thursday.
KAMEG agents arrested 29-year-old Kendall L. Dunn, of Manteno following an ongoing investigation and the execution of a search warrant at Dunn’s residence in Manteno, KAMEG said in a news release.
The warrant was executed about 5:30 a.m. Thursday, according to the release.
KAMEG agents were assisted by Illinois State Police SWAT, Kankakee County Sheriff’s office and the Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Bureau, according to the release.
They recovered four rifles, three handguns and a shotgun along with several hundred rounds of various caliber ammunition. One of the handguns was found to be reported stolen, according to the release.
Dunn has been initially charged with eight counts of unlawful use of a weapon by a felon, eight counts of felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a stolen firearm, and child endangerment, according to the release.
Dunn currently is on parole with the Illinois Department of Corrections for aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, according to the release.
According to Kankakee County court records, Dunn pleaded guilty in May to one charge of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. He was sentenced to one year at 50% (day-for-day).
He was arrested in January and received credit for each day he was in jail, according to  court records.
Dunn began his parole July 30, according to Illinois Department of Corrections records.
https://daily-journal.com/news/crime/kameg-arrest-manteno-man-on-gun-charges/article_0f46a24a-b977-11ef-baf4-97dbed173f03.html
ExpandCameron (CJ) Boudreau (Photo provided by Cameron Boudreau)
Trustee for <a href="https://www.shawlocal.com/tags/manteno/" target="_blank">Manteno</a>
High School History Teacher at Manteno High School
been filling in as an appointed trustee to the town of Manteno
I have no other political office experience outside of internships for State Representative Parkhurst and U.S
in Political Science from Northern Illinois University with a teaching license in Social Sciences
I am about to complete a Masters in History from Arizona State University online in May
I am a high school graduate of Manteno High School
I am very involved at Manteno High School as the head boys and girls golf coach
I also work a lot of the sporting events throughout the schools
I have been able to develop strong relationships with the future of Manteno
I am the president of the Manteno Education Association that represents all the educators of Manteno
I have been able to build connections to our school board and as a team make Manteno schools a great place to learn and thrive
and a loving one and a half year old puppy named Rosie
I want to say off the bat that this is a very humbling question
I know that this is just a snapshot and that anyone can ask me anything about the town to get a full picture of who I am and all my beliefs
What I think makes me the most qualified is my passion for Manteno
my political experience in state and national government
I have loved Manteno since I was a little kid
I love the connections most people have in town
especially now teaching in the school I graduated from
I feel that Manteno is unique in the fact that as a small town we represent
I have said I think Manteno reflects the best qualities from caring about our neighbors
I think my political experience is also a benefit
From working as an intern for our former State Representative Lindsay Parkhurst in Kankakee
these experiences have taught me how to work with differing opinions and still be able to get things done
I know that Manteno has varying opinions on issues
but as a trustee I feel that I can be seen as a mediator to create further progress for our town
I also think that my natural passion to be involved from a young age is a benefit and something that I am pushing as a teacher to my students
We are fortunate to have a say in what our government does and the priorities we want
I feel that my passion can create more active citizens
I think my own connections with the town offers a perspective that our current board does not have
which is younger adults and the youth of Manteno
but most do not feel like they have a say in our town
I think being able to represent them and allow them to bring concerns to me that I can bring to our board is an asset
These youth are the future of Manteno so we need to do what we can to help them see the town as we have
which is a great place to live and raise future generations
I think as a 26 year old I also represent that new generation of young adults who have moved in or stayed in Manteno
is vital to keeping our town strong and progressing into a positive future
I have many friends who are in their sixties
I believe that I am very relatable to most people
I have an old soul and I think that from teenagers to experienced folks
I think these three things are assets I can uniquely bring as a trustee of Manteno
I think that the greatest weakness currently of the Manteno Village Board has been the public’s perception of the board itself
As a trustee for the last 7 months I have learned a lot about what the Village is and what it is not in charge of
I think it surprises people when they get our tax rebate back that we are only a small portion of what the property taxes go into
That is due to the fact that as a village board we are in charge of the police department
Through my time I have heard people ask or want answers on things relating to the schools
I cannot as a village trustee stop someone from buying a property
I cannot fire or hire youth sports coaches
I cannot force the school board to change their procedures
They have their own boards to make those decisions
I know that there are some people in Manteno that are not happy with some recent decisions
I feel that it must be said that every other board in Manteno
but I can say that I feel confident that if every single one of those boards thought that was the best decision for the town
For the greatest strength of the Village of Manteno
I think it is our recent developments throughout the town
in that time we have built/updated parks including the Square on Second
We have also built and paid off a new police department that can be used for decades to come
Maybe most important to Manteno is that the Village started a full tax rebate for your tax portion that goes to the village
Not many towns around us have a full or any tax rebate
This shows that smart financial decisions have been made by this board
So why would we want to shift to brand new policies that cannot guarantee this
which I believe is this village’s greatest strength
I believe this is an issue that needs to be handled by our Attorney General of the United States and the Illinois Attorney General
I fully support the Manteno Police Department and will do what I can to make sure that they are in the best spot to deal with anything that comes their way
The top three priorities that I have as trustee is to continue financial stability
For continuing financial stability I have already touched on this in previous answers
but I know that we have to keep our tax rebate and garbage costs paid for by the village
That is going to require us to be strategic with our spending and make sure that we continue to use the funds we got through the Aqua sale in a smart way
I know the village has finished some big projects that put that money back into the town
At this point I do not see any other major projects on the horizon
I think our plan for the next few years should be to maintain and progress our town in small ways
For improving transparency, this has been priority for me since I have gotten on the board. I want any Mantenoan to feel comfortable reaching out and asking me questions on anything that involves the town and choices made. By sharing my email, <a href="mailto:cboudreau@villageofmanteno.com" target="_blank">cboudreau@villageofmanteno.com</a>
I hope people know that I will answer and be timely in my response
I feel as a board we need to make sure that we are all transparent on our decisions by expressing how we came to those decisions and why we feel it is best
I know that through our committee meetings
We must push those out better with our general meetings
I make no decision lightly and I always plan on having the best of Manteno in my choices
I will make sure that the other trustees and the mayor do too because we are a stronger
more effective board when everyone in Manteno knows why we are doing what we are doing
I know that these last few years have been hard for Manteno at times
not only from the pandemic but with the decision on Gotion
all decided that this was the best path forward for this town
If all of those people believed that to be the case
I believe that this was then the right decision for our town
I believe having open conversations between the Village and the public allows for everyone to have their voices heard
Through these conversations we will find the best path forward for Manteno
I love Manteno and I will work hard to help make this happen
I know that small businesses are what makes Manteno great
Therefore I think as a trustee I will work hard to bring businesses into Manteno and make sure those that are already here feel supported
When it comes to environmental sustainability
I know that if resources are being used that impact our land we have to be conscious and careful
and national government with their reports on our environment
I am no expert on environmental sustainability
so I will lean on those officials and educate myself to make sure that no decision is made without having a full understanding of its impacts
I think that Manteno is in a good spot with public transportation
We have county buses that come to Manteno frequently
There is a bus that runs to Midway airport that stops in Manteno and is only two dollars
I have used that many times and we are fortunate to have that for us
I think that our traffic laws and speed limits seem to be justified and help prevent accidents
I am always receptive to new ideas or innovations with public transportation
again I feel that we are in better shape than most towns
We have recently built a new police station
and we seem to be continuing to modernize our infrastructure
I know that we continue to repave roads when needed and will always be looking to make sure that our structures are up to code
As a trustee currently working on properties and recreation
I can also say that we continue on a yearly basis to update park equipment and keep them to the highest standards of safety
Again if there is anything that a resident feels we can improve on
I think we should play an active role in building our local businesses and economic growth
I think small businesses make Manteno great
We have so many great small businesses in food/drinks
that when possible we should help keep them strong
That is why the village buys our towns’ Christmas lights for Manteno from ACE
We want to make sure our small businesses know that we want them and want them to succeed
I feel that if we are not looking to grow then we are stagnant
We should want new businesses to set up shop in our town because we will feel that back through them buying goods from our small businesses and helping raise the wages of all Mantenoans
Whatever I can do as trustee to help out those local businesses I will do my best
shop locally when possibly because they are our neighbors
I think the top public safety concern for most people of Manteno is to make sure that they and their loved ones feel safe in our town and safe living in their homes
How we achieve this is by making sure that our police and fire department are given what they need to do to do their jobs best
I have talked with our police chief and toured the new police department
We have a great relationship on getting things to our officers and making sure they have what they need
they have a drone that they use in different aspects when trying to catch criminals
after the chief brought this to our attention
to buy an additional drone that is more up to date so that they can take shifts if needed
we are planning to train more officers to be able to use drones
they are constantly reminding our residents to lock their doors
I can say that I feel safe living in this town and I know when we have openings for police officers that we are getting many applicants where parts of our state are getting none
When it comes to the fire department they have their own board
but I plan on meeting with them and making a strong connection
I want them to know if they ever need help
the village will support them to keep our town safe
I know the dangers they face and I want to make sure that they have the best equipment to save our residents and our homes
I look forward to building those relationships with those firefighters
is always there to any resident who wants to reach out
we are choosing to put ourselves in the public eye
we should have to show our fellow Mantenoans all the finances that we make
this I think has been a nationwide issue and causes distrust in our government
I am very open about any conflicts of interest that there may be and am very open about my finances
I think that this is a good way to rebuild the trust in our public government
but we can make sure it is posted on the village website for easy access
therefore we have to be open with who we are in all aspects
ExpandIn 2019 the village of Manteno completed a trail at Legacy Park that follows along Interstate 57 for more than a mile. The village is expanding the pond at Legacy Park and adding another trail from the parking lot to the fishing pond. (Tiffany Blanchette)
MANTENO — In a few months there will be a fishing pier available at Legacy Park in Manteno.
At Tuesday’s Manteno Village Board meeting, trustees unanimously approved Phase 2 of the Legacy Park upgrades, awarding a bid to Tenco Excavating of Bourbonnais to the tune of $984,111.
The work includes expanding the pond on the southwest corner of Legacy Park that will also include a fishing pier.
Village Administrator Chris LaRocque said the idea of the fishing pond was suggested by former board member Sam Martin, who saw a similar park up near New Lenox.
“There are people who fish over there,” LaRocque said. “The original bid, when it went out, we kind of realized after that happened, that we probably need some lighting, some additional things on that pier to make sure that it was safe.”
In addition, there will be a path to the pond from a nearby parking lot, which is also being expanded. The pier will also be ADA accessible. Work on the expansion will likely start in the spring.
“Everybody [on the board] thought the pier would be a nice thing,” LaRocque said. “… That was the process, and again it was on the original design.”
LaRocque noted the idea for Legacy Park was planned back in 2006 and construction of the park began in 2008.
The park, which was completed in 2012, was also financed by Manteno Township which owns half the land the park sits on that borders Interstate 57 on the west. He said it’s been a collaborative effort over the years.
“It was a mutual thing that they really felt would benefit the area,” he said. “And I have to say, it’s an impressive park, and I think they’ve done a wonderful job continuing to improve it as the original design was intended.’
There were three other bidders on the Legacy Park Phase 2 project. Those were Schwartz Excavating Inc., of Countryside, for $1,002,950; R&amp;R Inc./Rueben Smith Construction, of Bradley, for $1,093,345; and Kankakee Valley Construction Co., of Kankakee, for $1,178,713. The engineer’s estimate was $1,213,290.
“We received four bids, and [Tenco] was the lowest bid by about $20,000, and it is lower than our engineers estimate by about $250,000,” board member CJ Boudreau said.
Board member Joel Gesky was mayor pro-tem on Tuesday, filling in for Mayor Tim Nugent who was unable to attend the meeting.
Gesky asked LaRocque to explain in detail the bidding process and about the reasoning behind the amount of money spent on Legacy Park. It was in response to a comment during public participation, questioning why a million dollars was being spent on the fishing pond/pier.
“This board and this administration, obviously, for a long time, even with former board members, have decided that the parks are important part of our community,” LaRocque said. “We have a lot of parks for a small town, and we’ve done an amazing job improving them and maintaining them.
“And kudos to Jim [Hanley, public works superintendent] and his staff. We don’t have an outside company that does all that. It’s done by public works.”
https://daily-journal.com/news/local/manteno-to-add-fishing-pier-to-pond-at-legacy-park/article_11ff3cd4-d86e-11ef-b80d-5b9d488792da.html
ExpandManteno's Sophie Peterson safely slides into home as Wilmington's Lexi Strohm waits for the throw during the Panthers' 9-7 victory over the Wildcats on Tuesday
With the win, Manteno improved to 7-0 overall and 3-0 in the ICE while Wilmington dropped to 7-2 and 2-1.
The Panthers rallied for seven runs in the bottom of the fifth inning after falling behind 3-2 in the fourth. They played a little small ball to get the runs home, tallying six singles, a pair of walks and two RBI groundouts in the inning, and took advantage of some Wilmington miscues on defense. 
Ava Peterson, who also was the winning pitcher for Manteno, delivered what would ultimately become the game-winning hit. Her single drove in Amiya Carlile and led to an error that allowed Julie Ott to score to make it 8-3. 
The Wildcats bounced back in the seventh, scoring four two-out runs to tighten things. Keeley Walsh doubled home a run, and after a walk loaded the bases, Molly Southall drove in three runs with a triple to bring the score to 9-7. Peterson then induced a groundout to end the game.
The fifth inning rally that propelled Manteno to the win was something that head coach Josh Carlile said that team felt was bound to happen at some point in the game. 
“We talked in between the inning before that, and even the inning before that, that we felt like we were on time with our swings and we just weren’t getting the results that we wanted,” he said. “We just wanted to just go up to the plate, have the same approach and let it work, and it did. Sometimes it just takes a little spark. It takes one person making something happen, and once it does it kind of snowballs.”
That positive momentum for the Panthers meant that it was going in the opposite direction for Wilmington. 
“We talked about how you just can’t let one error multiply,” Wilmington head coach Jack Skole said. “They hit the ball, and we know they’re going to hit the ball. We hit the ball, they made plays. It’s just one of those things where the wheels came off for one inning.”
ExpandAutoplayImage 1 of 11Manteno's Aubrie Goudreau catches a throw to second base as Wilmington's Keeley Walsh narrowly steals the base during the Panthers' 9-7 victory over the Wildcats on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. (Tiffany Blanchette)
Wilmington’s lineup has generated plenty of runs this season, averaging more than 16 runs per game heading into Tuesday. They had nine hits and six walks Tuesday. 
Walsh finished the game 3 for 4 with a walk, two RBIs and two runs. Southall was 1 for 2 with three walks, three RBIs and two stolen bases, while Nina Egizio was 2 for 5 with an RBI. 
Wilmington put the ball in play frequently against Manteno, striking out just twice, but the Manteno defense managed to turn enough of those batted balls into outs to get the job done.
“[Peterson] didn’t have her best stuff tonight, so we really had to focus in on getting a little more of the plate than we probably wanted, which allowed them to get more barrels on the ball,” Carlile said. “But the defense did a nice job making enough plays to get us out of innings a couple of times, and I think that was the difference.”
Peterson said that having confidence in her defense helped her get through that final inning against the heart of the Wilmington lineup. 
“It was definitely different knowing [Wilmington] could heat up so quick, but I had all the confidence knowing that they could heat up and my defense was going to step up and make the plays like they did,” she said. “They were going to put it in play, yes, but someone was going to find a way to get the ball in their glove.”
Peterson led the way offensively for Manteno, going 4 for 4 from the leadoff spot with three RBIs and two runs. Macy Iwanus was 2 for 3 with an RBI, and Amiya Carlile was 2 for 3 with two runs and two stolen bases. 
ExpandFarmland located southwest of 7000N Road and 1000E Road in unincorporated Kankakee County has been recommended for rezoning and annexation into the village of Manteno. (Daily Journal/Tiffany Blanchette)
The Manteno Plan Commission on Wednesday unanimously approved a recommendation by Martin Rentals CJM to have a 72-acre tract of farmland rezoned upon its annexation into the village of Manteno.
The village trustees will vote on the rezoning and annexation at Monday’s Manteno Village Board meeting.
The property is located southwest of 7000N Road and 1000E Road in unincorporated Kankakee County.
It is zoned industrial and will be zoned heavy industrial (I-2) upon annexation into Manteno. The owner, Tom Martin, owns adjacent property just across 1000E Road, and he wants all of the land to be in Manteno.
More than 35 residents were in attendance at the meeting in the village hall board room for the hearing that preceded the plan commission’s vote.
A rumor had circulated that a data center would be built on the total land Martin owns, and residents were concerned what environmental impacts the project would have on the area.
“We’ve got a 72-acre parcel, and currently it’s farmed,” said Ken Carlson, an attorney with Tracy, Johnson &amp; Wilson of Joliet, who represents Martin. “There are no improvements on that parcel. And to be very clear, there are no contracts and no discussions with anyone with respect to that parcel.”
Carlson said that Martin wants the land to be in Manteno and to be developed as part of Manteno. Martin owns property east of 1000E Road that is already in Manteno and zoned heavy industrial. Martin said it is probably one to five years out before the land would be redeveloped.
“I want to bring the real estate taxes to Manteno,” he said. “My kids live here. My grandkids live here. I want to deal with one municipality. I don’t care who the mayor is, whoever’s mayor at that time, I want to work with them.”
Another benefit of bringing the property into Manteno is the village will have control of all the land and can dictate what might be developed there. It would allow for improvements to 1000E Road, a frontage road that runs parallel just east of Interstate 57.
“There are a lot of rumors going around, but the two people here tonight have told you personally, both men of honor, that nothing is going on with the property,” said Francis Smith, plan commission chairman. “... We can vote for it, we can vote against it.”
Smith said that if the commission votes for it, the village will have control.
“If everybody votes against it, Mr. Martin can still do anything in the I-2 district zoning he has today through Kankakee County. The only difference is [the county] gets the tax money, and the village of Manteno does not.”
David Bergdahl, a local Manteno attorney, has been a part of planning at the county level for more than 25 years. He said zoning the 72-acre tract heavy industrial would be consistent with what is currently approved in the village for that area.
“This fits into everyone’s comprehensive plan,” Bergdahl said, referring to the county, Bourbonnais and Manteno. “I’m not opposed to it, but I’m not in favor of it either.”
Carlson said voting for the rezoning/annexation is a way to create more unification to the development of 1000E Road.
“Because ultimately your goal should not be to be able to develop 72 acres to make it what you want, it ought to be to develop that whole corridor the way you want it to be,” Carlson said.
Chris LaRocque, village administrator, said Martin’s property has been up for sale for a number of years.
“There’s nobody that we’re aware of that has looked at this parcel,” he said.
ExpandFile photo: A U-Haul rental business in McHenry
U-Haul Co. of Illinois Inc. recently announced that Cordes Brothers Towing signed on as a U-Haul dealer to serve <a href="https://www.shawlocal.com/tags/manteno/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" title="https://www.shawlocal.com/tags/manteno/">Manteno</a>, according to a news release from U-Haul.
Cordes Brothers Towing is at 151 Linden and will offer U-Haul trucks, trailers, towing equipment and moving supplies.
Normal business hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday to Friday; 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday; and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Sunday. Customers can reserve U-Haul products at this dealer location by calling 815-907-5006 or visiting uhaul.com/Locations/Truck-Rentals-near-Manteno-IL-60950/013302/ today.
Cordes Brothers Towing owner Terry Cordes said he is proud to team with U-Haul to offer do-it-yourself moving and self-storage demands in Kankakee County, according to the release.
U-Haul has teamed with independent dealers to offer rental equipment to do-it-yourself movers since 1945. There are more than 21,000 dealers across the U.S. and Canada generating supplemental income through their U-Haul affiliation.
Because no financial investment is required to be a dealer, these local affiliates are not U-Haul franchises, the company said. They are simply small businesses that have committed a portion of their lot space for U-Haul equipment, and a portion of their time to help meet the mobility needs of their neighbors. 
ExpandKankakee County Animal Control, located at 134 Mooney Dr. in Bourbonnais, has intergovernmental agreement with several communities. (Daily Journal/Tiffany Blanchette)
MANTENO – For the past 25 years animal control in Manteno was handled by Gary Baughan, a part-time employee of the village.
It’s now the end of an era of animal control in Manteno.
Baughan, 79, retired about a month ago, so the the village board approved a resolution on Monday for an intergovernmental agreement between Kankakee County and the village of Manteno for animal control services.
The county will provide the animal control, which is overseen by the sheriff’s department, for $6,000 per year.
Kankakee County’s animal control will respond from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
“We can call them out if there’s a special emergency,” said Chris LaRocque, village administrator.
The Manteno Police Department will reach out to KanComm. In some instances the police department might be able to handle the call on its own.
“[Animal Control] has the same agreement with other municipalities in the county, so this agreement is the same thing,” LaRocque said.
With Manteno on board, the county now has six animal control agreements, including with Aroma Park, Grant Park, Bourbonnais, Chebanse and Buckingham.
Sheriff Mike Downey noted the department will respond to service calls to other communities which do not have a contract with the department.
However, he said those communities – notably Kankakee, Bradley, Herscher and Momence – will be billed on a per-call basis.
Baughan was presented a plaque commemorating 25 years as Manteno’s animal control officer in August at a village board meeting.
Board member Diane Dole said Baughan will be missed.
“He came to my house before to get a squirrel out of the fireplace,” she said. “And that was on Thanksgiving, so it was like a big deal. He’s a great guy, and this change was both cost effective and the best alternative in lieu of hiring a new employee.”
Baughan worked part time, but was provided a truck by the village to do the job.
“Overall this [agreement] will be about half of what it was costing the village,” LaRocque said.
LaRocque realizes that Baughan did a lot more than he was probably required to do by the village when it came to handling animal issues residents encountered.
“Those kind of guys are hard to find, so this is the next best option,” he said.
The intergovernmental agreement will begin as soon as the mayor signs off on the resolution, and it will likely begin later this month, LaRocque said.
ExpandThe Manteno Public Works building is on North Maple Street adjacent to Legacy Park. Village officials have discussed putting a police gun range behind the public works building. (Village of Manteno)
MANTENO – Nothing has been planned or close to becoming a reality, but the talk of a possible police gun range in Manteno spurred debate at Monday’s village board meeting.
Residents, who learned that an outdoor police gun range was discussed at a recent public safety committee meeting, spoke during the public participation portion of the board meeting.
Greg Olejarz, of Manteno, lives adjacent to the Manteno Public Works building on North Maple Street, and he voiced opposition to the police gun range being built at the site.
“We didn’t move next to a police range,” he said. “... It’s in our backyard. There has to be a better place than our backyard.”
Olejarz was also upset that no one from the village notified him of the possibility of a gun range being built.
“Where’s the miscommunication?” he asked. “Where’s the disconnect? That is something that is 100% negatively affecting that neighborhood, and not one person had made the effort [to notify me]. ‘We’re thinking about this firing range. We’d like to get the residents [input].' Not one person.”
Linda Jansma lives in Sunny Acres mobile home park near Legacy Park and the proposed gun range site.
“As a licensed gun owner myself, I’m all for range, for our officers, for gun safety and training, just not in that location,” she said. “... Myself and other residents do not feel that this location for a range is safe or fair to us. It is very close to residential homes and one of our largest parks in town, where children and families come from all over to enjoy time outside.”
Village Administrator Chris LaRocque said the police gun range is just in the discussion stage. The village learned it was going to have some leftover dirt from digging out the pond at Legacy Park for a fishing facility.
It was suggested that the dirt could be taken to the Public Works facility.
“It kind of came up that if we’re going to do that, maybe would could build berms,” LaRocque said. 
Police Chief Alan Swinford suggested it would be nice to have a firing range in Manteno so his officers don’t have to drive to Bradley, Kankakee or Peotone to do their mandatory gun certification training.
Currently, Manteno police officers are paid overtime to travel to do their training while on duty.
Manteno has been without a police gun range for several years after the old site at the sewer facility which was sold to Aqua Illinois.
LaRocque said there are no formal plans drawn up for a police gun range. The closest residential property is 160 yards from the potential gun range.
“They’ve kind of looked at various things, they’ve done some dimensions,” he said. “Our engineers kind of looked at it, but there’s nothing definitive yet. Nobody has put together a cost of it. They’re exploring the idea.”
Any further discussion would likely be at the next public safety meeting at 7 a.m. on March 12.
“We are doing it at the recommendation of the chief for the improvement of the department training,” Mayor Tim Nugent said. “He was the one that brought it up to us. We’ve got the property. He thought it was a good idea, and we’ll be able to use all the dirt we’re taking from the pond project. It was an opportune time.”
Swinford said the department has 22 police officers, and they have to do gun certification quarterly. All the training would be done by the officers at the same time four times each year.
“Everybody comes the same day because we’ve got our instructors there,” he said. “Typically, it would be four or five times a year.”
“I think with the 50-foot berms and shooting in an easterly direction, I don’t think they would hear much,” he said. “I guarantee it, I don’t think Legacy [Park] would hear anything. The wind would have something to do with it but with the Interstate-[57] noise out there, you could barely hear it.”
ExpandBasketball close up file art (Shaw Local News Network)
COAL CITY – When Southland College Prep head coach Justin Johnson came to the school three years ago, he was tasked with building a boys basketball team essentially from scratch. Fast forward to Friday night; he’s already reaping the rewards.
Behind 36 points by senior David Shaw and a polarizing defense that forced 10 Manteno turnovers, the Eagles were able to pull away late from the Panthers 73-66 to earn their program’s first-ever regional title at Friday’s IHSA Class 2A Coal City Regional championship.
Southland College Prep improved to 20-7 on the season and will play Bismarck-Henning on Wednesday in a Peotone Sectional semifinal at Peotone High School. 
Manteno saw its season conclude at 21-12. The Panthers celebrated back-to-back 20-win seasons for just the second time in program history, and their 48 wins over the past two years is the most in any two-year span ever.
“They brought me out here because they wanted to build up the program, so I started here from scratch,” Johnson said. “David [Shaw] was an incoming sophomore when I started, and I told him if he sticks with me, he works hard and we stick together, that this will be the outcome.”
Achieving that outcome was not easy. Manteno grabbed an 18-13 lead after the first quarter and led 34-28 at halftime, thanks to Ray Lee’s hot shooting. Manteno’s career scoring leader had buzzer-beater 3-pointers in the first and second quarters on his way to a 26-point night.
But keeping shot-for-shot with Lee was Shaw, who in the first half buried five 3-pointers, keeping the game within striking distance for the Eagles. 
Johnson had all the praise in the world for his talented player.
“I’ve been saying it for the last two years; David is one of the top players in the state. I feel like he’s one of the top 100 players in his class. You know what he did tonight? He’s been proven. He has faced adversity. He never gives up.
“And we’re going to continue to show the state why he’s one of the best.”
The Panthers had trouble with the Eagles' ferocious defense all night long and could not get the job done down the stretch when it mattered the most.
“The tempo and stuff got to us a couple times,” Manteno coach Zack Myers said. “We kept reiterating to our guys that we needed to play at our pace. They sped us up a couple times for turnovers. We had a few good looks at the rim late, just weren’t able to capitalize on it.”
This loss means that one of the most prolific scorers in the area, Lee, had his high school basketball career end. While it is hard to see a player of Lee’s ability leave, his accomplishments in the program are not going to be understated.
“What a phenomenal job he’s done,” Myers said. “The thing people need to know about Ray was he was relentless with getting in the gym and finding shots in the summer and working with the coaching staff to get in [the gym] and put shots up. He had a great career, but he definitely deserved it because of how hard he worked to get here.”
IHSA Class 2A Coal City Regional semifinals
(2)Manteno 55, (7)Peotone 51 (2OT): In the fourth meeting of the year for one of the area’s most heated rivalries, the Panthers prevailed in double overtime to advance to Friday’s regional championship game back in Coal City.
Ray Lee had a signature performance for Manteno (21-11), scoring 29 of his game-high 37 points in the second half and overtime periods. Nate Hupe had six points, while Andrew Norred and Braden Campbell each had five points.
Brandon Weiss (15 points) and Ruben Velasco (14 points) led Peotone, who finished the year 16-14, in their final prep basketball game. Logan Mather added eight points.
(5)Southland College Prep 76, (3)Coal City 64: Manteno’s championship game opponent will be an Eagles team that upset the host Coalers Wednesday. No individual stats were immediately available. Wednesday’s loss ended the Coalers’ season with a 20-11 record, tied with the 2019-20 team for the program’s most wins in a season the past 20 years.
IHSA Class 2A Fieldcrest Regional semifinals
(2)Bishop McNamara 55, (7)Prairie Central 42: Thanks to their 13-point win in Wednesday’s semifinal, the Fightin’ Irish (24-7) will have a chance to play for their 26th regional plaque in program history at Fieldcrest Friday night. No individual stats were immediately available.
(3)Fieldcrest 62), (6)Central 50: McNamara’s opponent will be the same Knights team that ended their round in last year’s regional finals after the host Knights got past the Comets in Wednesday’s nightcap. 
The Comets saw their season end with a 17-13 record. Perry Mason led the Central scoring with 17 points. Aidan Podowicz had a dozen points, followed by 10 points from Blake Chandler.
IHSA Class 4A Normal West Regional semifinals
(6)Minooka 59, (4)Bradley-Bourbonnais 42: No individual stats were immediately available for the Boilermakers, who were upset in Wednesday’s semifinal to end their season with a 21-8 record. 
(5)Heyworth 50, (3)St. Anne 46: In a rematch of last year’s regional championship, the Cardinals once again found themselves on the wrong side of their matchup with Heyworth, this time in the semifinal round.
Deion Fifer led St. Anne (22-7) with 13 points. Chris Link also reached double figures with 11 points.
IHSA Class 2A Hoopeston Regional semifinals
(1)Bismarck-Henning 67, (9)Watseka 36: The Warriors looked to give an early exit to the last team in the state to record a loss this season with a state-shocking upset, but their bid was denied Wednesday night. No individual stats were immediately available for Watseka, who saw its season end at 12-19.
IHSA Class 2A Joliet Catholic Academy Regional semifinals
(8)Chicago Christian 58, (4)Wilmington 47: The Wildcats were upset in Wednesday’s semifinal in Joliet. No individual stats were immediately available for the Wildcats, whose season ended at 19-11.
slides into home plate as Kankakee's Kylee Cunningham fields a late throw during a game in Manteno Tuesday
“You know how it is in the spring, everyone gets tired of being in the gym,” Panthers coach Josh Carlile said. “You can only harp ‘practice hard’ so many times before it starts to kind of make you numb, and we were ready to play.”
Manteno improved to 2-0 and the Kays fell to 2-2 following a doubleheader sweep of Thornton on Monday.
ExpandAutoplayImage 1 of 8Manteno's Ava Peterson, left, throws a pitch to Kankakee's Lillian Landis during a game at Manteno Tuesday, March 25, 2025. (Mason Schweizer)
The Panthers scored in every inning, recording one in the first, two in both the second and third and three in both the fourth and fifth innings. Seven players had multi-hit days, with Jaz Manau and Sophie Peterson each finishing with three hits. Manau tripled and cleared loaded bases with a walk-off single and ensuing Kays error, totaling four RBIs and three runs scored. Sophie Peterson drove in three and scored a run.
Whether it was Ava Peterson (2 for 4, 2B, RBI, R) in the leadoff spot or Julie Ott (2 for 3) in the nine-hole, the Panthers know they can trust anybody they send to the plate to do a variety of things to create runs.
“I think today was a great display of our team,” Ava Peterson said. “It’s such a well-balanced group this year. We have all our speed, we don’t have a bunch of big power hitters, but a lot of girls can do both. It’s a very good balance, and I think today was a great display of what we can do.”
Ava Peterson allowed an earned run on two hits, two walks and 10 strikeouts, her second one-run complete game in as many starts. While Carlile praised the spin she had on her pitches and getting some velocity back after recovering from a minor knee injury during the basketball season, the Manteno ace was humble in her self-assessment.
“A win’s a win, so it’s a good day,” she said. “But on the mound, my job is to keep the runs as low as possible so our offense can do the work and win. Obviously, one run, I’d say that gave them room to work, and it was a great day.”
Kankakee's Calleigh Moody, left, reaches to apply a tag on Manteno's Sophie Peterson during a game at Manteno Tuesday, March 25, 2025. (Mason Schweizer)
The Kays got both of their hits in the fourth inning, when Kylie Glogowski singled and eventually came around to score on Kendyl Christon’s single. As they look to get their young team up to speed, coach LaDesha Nelson said the Panthers gave them a great example of how teams can take advantage of little mistakes in a myriad of ways.
“The little things are what makes the difference,” Nelson said. “The good teams capitalize on the little things, they take advantage of it, just as simple as showing that you have effort. … If you show an inch, they take a mile. That comes with experience, and we’re working on that."
ExpandManteno's Connor Harrod slides safely into home as Peotone's Everett Carder fields a late throw in the third inning of Monday's game. (Nicholas Holstein)
Manteno 12, Peotone 2 (5 inn.): The Panthers kept their unbeaten start to the season alive with a five-inning win at home Monday over rival Peotone. Manteno improved to 6-0, while Peotone fell to 2-3. 
Manteno had six hits, but also worked nine walks and took advantage of six Blue Devil errors to get their runs. Tyler Buehler was 1 for 3 with a walk, an RBI and two runs scored out of the leadoff spot. Andrew Norred was 1 for 2 with two walks, an RBI and a run, while Braden Campbell was 1 for 2 with a double, two RBIs and a run. Connor Harrod was 2 for 3 with two RBIs and a run, and pitched 3⅔ shutout innings, allowing two hits with six strikeouts. 
Peotone had hits from Ruben Velasco and Josh Barta. Tyler Leitelt was 0 for 2 with a walk and a run. Everett Carder worked two walks and scored a run. 
Wilmington 1, Reed-Custer 0: In a battle of Illinois Central Eight Conference aces, Wilmington and Lucas Rink were able to scrape by the Comets and Brady Tyree when Cooper Holman scored on a Comets error in the bottom of the seventh. Rink allowed one hit and walked one in his eight-strikeout shutout. Tyree was tagged with the tough-luck loss after allowing an unearned run on two hits, four walks and five strikeouts in a complete game.
Zach Ohlund and Declan Moran had the hits for Wilmington (3-4). Tyree had the only hit for the Comets (5-2).
Herscher 7, Streator 0: Peyton Young was nearly unhittable for the Tigers, allowing a hit, two walks and fanning eight over six shutout innings to help Herscher improve to 6-1. Young was one of four Tigers with two-hit days, finishing 2 for 4 with a pair of runs. Gaige Brown had the same stat line, plus two stolen bases. Keegan Andre was 2 for 3 with a double and two RBIs. Nash Brubaker was 2 for 3 with a walk, a run and an RBI.
Paxton-Buckley-Loda 6, Milford 1: Aiden Frerichs, Colt Halpin and Gage Vogel had hits for Milford (1-5) Monday. Halpin’s fifth-inning single brought home Lucas Summers for the lone Bearcats run. Beau Wright was tagged with the loss after allowing two earned runs on two hits and four walks in the first inning. Hixon Lafond performed admirably in relief, allowing an earned run on three hits and no walks while striking out four in 3⅓ innings.
Herscher 4, Bishop McNamara 0: Gianni Jaime and Claire Chinski had two goals apiece to help the Tigers (5-0-1) down their nonconference rivals Monday. Jaime had an assist, as did Gianna High, while Sophie Venckauskas had a pair. Danica Woods had five saves
No individual stats were available for the Fightin’ Irish (0-2).
Joliet Catholic 5, Peotone 3: No individual stats were available for Peotone (0-2).
Manteno 1, Peotone 0: Two of the area’s top pitchers put their talents on display on Monday, with Ava Peterson and host Manteno getting the better of rival Peotone and Sophie Klawitter. Peterson allowed just two hits over seven shutout innings, recording 14 strikeouts and two walks. She also had the only hit and run for Manteno, singling in the bottom of the fourth, stealing second and third, and scoring on a wild pitch. The Panthers improved to 4-0. 
Peotone fell to 2-2 with the loss. Klawitter allowed just the one hit and one run over six innings. She had 11 strikeouts and did not walk a batter, although she worked a pair of walks at the plate. Abigail Christenberry was the only Blue Devil to get a hit off Peterson. She was 2 for 2 with a double and single. 
Bradley-Bourbonnais 1, Plainfield South 0: Lydia Hammond recorded her third shutout of the season Monday, first to go all seven innings, in a game where the Boilermakers needed that kind of performance. They managed just three hits as a team, scoring their lone run in the second when Olivia Woolman singled and scored on an error. Woolman was 1 for 2 with a walk, while Tristin Woods and Suttyn Hop both went 1 for 3. 
Hammond allowed just two hits in seven innings and recorded 13 strikeouts without walking a batter. Bradley-Bourbonnais improved to 6-1.
Marian Catholic 5, Bishop McNamara 4: The Fightin’ Irish dropped a heartbreaker on the road Monday, losing a late 4-3 lead by allowing a run in the bottom of the sixth and a walkoff run in the bottom of the seventh. They fell to 2-3. 
Teagan McCue was 1 for 4 with a two-run home run that gave the Irish a 4-3 lead in the top of the fifth. Vivian Dole was 2 for 3 with a run, while Rhaya DePaolo was 1 for 4 with a double, an RBI and a run. Gabby Burnett was 1 for 2 with an RBI. 
Wilmington 12, Reed-Custer 0 (5 inn.): Wilmington’s Taryn Gilbert allowed only one hit at home against the Comets on Monday, but also had just one strikeout as the Wildcats played errorless defense for five innings behind her. Wilmington improved to 6-1, while Reed-Custer dropped to 2-2. 
Molly Southall was 1 for 3 with two walks and a three-run home run for the Wildcats. Nina Egizio was 1 for 2 with a walk and a two-run home run. Keeley Walsh was 2 for 2 with a walk and two runs scored. In the circle, Gilbert needed just 37 pitches to get through the five-inning game. 
For Reed-Custer, Kamryn Wilkey went 1 for 2 as the Comets’ only base runner. Sophia Moyers allowed just two hits and three runs over three innings in relief, recording four strikeouts with one walk.
Central 10, Watseka 0: The Comets scored one run each in the second, third, fourth and fifth innings before erupting for six runs in the sixth to pull away from the Warriors on the road Monday. Sydney Jemar pitched all six innings, allowing four hits and striking out eight. She also went 2 for 3 with a solo home run. Lia Prairie also hit a home run, going 1 for 3 with a walk, two RBIs and a run. Rayven Perkins was 3 for 4 with two RBIs and two runs as Central improved to 6-4 on the season.
Watseka fell to 1-4 with the loss. Sarah Parsons, Ainsley Urban, Thayren Rigsby and Rennah Barrett each had a hit for the Warriors, with Urban and Barrett each hitting a double. 
Milford-Cissna Park 13, Paxton-Buckley-Loda 4: Addison Lucht had a big sixth inning for the Bearcats on Monday at home. She hit a three-run home run after the first two batters of the inning reached, and then with two outs in the inning, hit a double to drive in three more runs. The Bearcats scored nine runs in the inning to break a 4-4 tie. 
Lucht was 2 for 2 with three walks, six RBIs, two runs and a steal. Lille Harris was 2 for 4 with two doubles, an RBI and two runs, while Jossalin Lavicka was 2 for 2 with three walks and three runs. Kami Muehling got the win allowing five hits over seven innings while recording nine strikeouts. 
Streator 10, Herscher 2: After back-to-back wins, the Tigers took a home loss Monday to fall to 5-2. Anistin Hackley was 1 for 2 with a double, a walk and an RBI while also pitching five innings, allowing five runs (two earned) and striking out five. Keira Ahramovich went 1 for 3 with a walk, an RBI and a run, while Lilly Tucek was 1 for 3 with a run.