Looking for a “clean slate” and to move the village forward, the Manteno Board of Trustees voted Monday to have a forensic audit done on its finances.

Some residents spoke up during Monday's meeting about a 'dysfunctional' board.

Manteno Village Board OKs paying for garbage fees and will rebate local property taxes.

In a vote on the payment of bills amounting to $692,890, some objections were raised by Trustee Mike Barry, who expressed concern over the final cost compared to the original estimate.

Manteno Mayor Annette LaMore appointed Jim Hanley as superintendent of public works and Alan Swinford as chief of police.

The final votes for the 2025 Municipal General Election were counted Tuesday.

Sherri Crawford: 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

Mike Barry: Our current administration has turned a blind eye to the residents on crucial decisions being made financially and safety wise

Cameron Boudreau: The top three priorities that I have as trustee is to continue financial stability, improve transparency as a village board and reunite the town together

Peggy Vaughn: My top three concerns are the health and safety of our community; number two, infrastructure; and number three, economic development and growth

Paul Motel: The current administration’s most significant shortcoming is transparency. Many community members believe that their views are overlooked and undervalued, leading to a sense of being disregarded when they voice their concerns

Just the talk of a possible police gun range being built behind the Manteno Public Works building spurred debate at village board meeting.

The 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 Gotion.

The village of Manteno approved a resolution for an intergovernmental agreement with Kankakee County to provide animal control services.

The former school teacher, coach and most recently public works employee, Dan Johnson has retired from the department.

The River Valley Special Recreation Association made a presentation at Monday's Manteno Board meeting about beginning a partnership with the village.

In a few months there will be a fishing pier available at Legacy Park in Manteno

The board unanimously approved a contract Monday with Piggush Simoneau Inc., of Kankakee, for $298,298