Will County Gazette

Breakthrough Ideas has announced a fundraising event to support the Concerned Citizens of Manteno's lawsuit against Gotion, a company facing public scrutiny over environmental and national security concerns.

The Concerned Citizens of Manteno (CCOM) have filed a lawsuit against the Village of Manteno and Gotion Inc. regarding the rezoning and development of a lithium battery plant in a residential area. According to the group's legal complaint, the rezoning process violated municipal code and constitutional land use protections. The proposed plant involves substances like lithium and N‑Methylpyrrolidone (NMP), which pose potential threats to public health and the environment. The lawsuit seeks to reverse the rezoning decision and halt development due to the facility's proximity to homes, schools, and wetlands.

In May 2025, a Kankakee County judge allowed most claims in the lawsuit—particularly those related to health, environmental, and constitutional issues—to proceed to trial. Breakthrough Ideas states that 100% of proceeds from their upcoming fundraiser will go directly toward legal fees incurred by CCOM in this lawsuit. The event offers multiple ticket levels, including a $250 VIP access ticket and a $125 supporter ticket, with additional sponsorship tiers up to $10,000 aimed at financially sustaining the ongoing legal challenge.

Governor J.B. Pritzker authorized a $536 million tax subsidy package for Gotion Inc. to build the proposed electric vehicle battery facility in Manteno. This decision has prompted backlash from advocacy groups and local residents who argue that taxpayer dollars should not support a company allegedly affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party while under congressional investigation for national security concerns. Breakthrough Ideas links this taxpayer funding to the urgency of the lawsuit, offering sponsorship levels such as a $10,000 Headline Sponsor package that includes VIP access, a photo with Gordon Chang, and recognition in promotional media.

Breakthrough Ideas is a civic advocacy organization founded by former Illinois State Representative Jeanne Ives. The organization focuses on promoting limited government, public accountability, and national security awareness at the intersection of state policy and global geopolitical threats.