Multiple Manteno residents told the Village Board on Sept. 2 they oppose plans for permanent restrooms at the Second Street square, criticizing cost estimates, installation transparency and potential impacts on safety and downtown aesthetics.

Speakers said the village circulated partial cost information and that residents were not shown complete installation estimates. Diane Sauerbier said a pavilion kit was listed at about $158,000 but installation costs of about $130,000 were missing from the materials presented. “It felt like we are taking a giant step backwards and sharing only a piece of the information,” she said during public participation.

Other speakers raised similar concerns. Sandy Chish called a proposed $250,000 bathroom “ridiculous” and asked who would be responsible for cleaning, heating and maintenance. George Reichert said a mock-up placed in the square made the structure look larger than expected and called it a potential “eyesore.” Francine Fatima told the board she opposed perceived “frivolous” spending on permanent bathrooms and preferred portable toilets for events.

Trustee Joel Geske (Properties and Recreation) told the board the Park and Recreation Committee will revisit the restrooms at its next meeting and that the square and restroom proposals will be discussed further. Geske said the committee meeting is scheduled for Sept. 10 at 7 a.m. in the Village Boardroom.

No formal action to fund or contract for the permanent restrooms was taken at the Sept. 2 meeting. The matter remains under committee review; trustees and residents said they expect additional cost and site-visibility information before any contract or budget approval.