A Pledge to Serve, A Vision to Lead
The Leadership Party of Manteno is built on a shared commitment to our town's future, centered on responsible growth, fiscal accountability, robust public safety, and preserving our strong community values. We believe that local government should work transparently and efficiently for every resident, balancing smart infrastructure development with sound financial stewardship. By bringing practical experience and proactive leadership to the table, our team is dedicated to keeping Manteno a safe, welcoming, and vibrant place to live, work, and raise a family.
Eric Peterson
Candidate for Board Trustee
Eric Peterson is the founder and CEO of Project Headspace and Timing, a Manteno-based nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans through mental health advocacy, community engagement, and transitional assistance programs. Since founding the organization in 2017, Eric has worked tirelessly to connect veterans with the resources, support networks, and opportunities they need to thrive after military service.
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A combat veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan with the Illinois Army National Guard, State Department, and Department of Defense, Eric understands firsthand the challenges veterans and their families face. His experiences inspired him to build an organization focused on strengthening the bond between veterans, their communities, and the support systems that help them succeed.
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Throughout his career, Eric has led numerous community initiatives benefiting veterans, first responders, and local families. His leadership has earned recognition throughout Kankakee County, including honors for both his community service and civic engagement. He currently serves on Boards in several community organizations and continues to advocate for those who have served our nation.
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As a candidate for Village Trustee, Eric is committed to responsible growth, fiscal accountability, public safety, and preserving the small-town values that make Manteno a great place to live, work, and raise a family. He believes local government works best when it listens to residents, supports local businesses, and invests in the future while protecting the character of the community.
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Eric and his family are proud to call Manteno home, and he is seeking the opportunity to serve as Trustee to help ensure the village remains strong, safe, and welcoming for generations to come.
Jacob Carlile
Candidate for Board Trustee
Jacob Carlile is the founding principal of Carlile Architects LLC, specializing in public sector projects for civic and institutional clients. A Southern Illinois University at Carbondale graduate with a degree in Architectural Studies, Jacob also dedicated eight years to the Illinois Army National Guard.
His extensive record of community service includes serving as chairman of the Manteno Chamber of Commerce and president of the Manteno Rotary. He has also represented his peers as a delegate for the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Illinois, served on the Olivet Nazarene University Engineering Advisory Board, and sat on the Board of Directors for the Bradley Economic Development Corporation.
Beyond professional roles, Jacob has contributed to local youth through softball coaching, served as an Educational Surrogate for students in foster care, and participated in the Kankakee High School Success Mentoring Program.
Originally from Bourbonnais and a BBCHS alumnus, Jacob chose Manteno as the place to raise his family and invest in his firm's development due to its commitment to safety, amenities, and opportunity. This personal and professional connection drives his vision for the village.
As a candidate for Village of Manteno Trustee, Jacob is focused on ensuring fiscally responsible growth and delivering high-quality services. He is committed to maintaining a safe, close-knit environment that meets the needs of everyone from young families to senior citizens.
Jacob lives in Manteno with his wife, Tammy, their two daughters, and a lively collection of family pets.
Eric Urbanowski
Candidate for Board Trustee
Eric Urbanowski is a lifelong advocate for strong communities, responsible growth, and putting people first. He is running for Trustee of the Village of Manteno as a member of the Leadership Party, with a commitment to keeping Manteno moving forward while laying the foundation for a healthy and prosperous future.
Eric earned his Doctor of Pharmacy from Midwestern University in Downers Grove. In 2018, he founded Main Street Pharmacy in Manteno to help meet a community need for high-quality, local health care. Since then, he has expanded his work to oversee six pharmacy locations, with a focus on serving rural communities throughout Central Illinois.
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Eric has also made service to Manteno a priority. Since 2022, he has served on the Board of Directors of the Manteno Chamber of Commerce and currently serves as Chair of the Board. He volunteers through the Manteno High School Mentor Program and contributes his time to the Manteno Oktoberfest committees.
His commitment to community leadership has also been recognized through two nominations for Cardinal Health's Community Leader Award, in 2025 and 2026.
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As a Village Trustee, Eric will bring his professional experience, community involvement, and practical leadership to the table. His priorities are clear:Â fiscal responsibility, sustainable growth, collaboration with residents, and building a strong sense of community.
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Eric believes Manteno's future is strongest when residents and village leadership work together. He is ready to listen, lead, and help build a Manteno that remains a great place to live, work, raise a family, and build a future.
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Eric has resided in Manteno since 2005 with his wife, four children, and two dogs.
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Our Principles
A campaign built on unwavering foundations. These core values dictate every policy and community initiative we champion for the future of Manteno
Vision
Care
Community
