Meet Village President, Jason Tompkins

Mahomet Officials: Meet Village President, Jason Tompkins

Jason Tompkins was sworn in as Mahomet’s village president last April, replacing former president, Sean Widener. While Tompkins says that the village presidency seemed to find him more than he sought it out, he is seasoned in positions of leadership and appreciative to be an integral governing part of the community, as Mahomet continues to grow and thrive.

“Growing up in rural Cuba, Illinois, I was active at an early age in 4-H and FFA. Leadership development is a pillar for both organizations. That foundation seemed to translate into leadership opportunities in college,” said Tompkins.

Jason is a University of Illinois graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics. With a focus on public policy, he considered law school but elected not to pursue that field and now manages a large sign business responsible for printing and manufacturing, branding, design, installation and project management. He has also

served as president of the Illinois Sign Association and the World Sign Associates. 

Tompkins was president of various organizations during his time at U of I and worked

closely with the university administration. “Surrounding yourself with great people can only make you better, and I have been incredibly fortunate to have learned from colleagues from around the United States. I believe they have helped prepare me for all of my ‘next steps’ in life, including the role of village president.”

Since moving to Mahomet in 1999, one of the most notable changes Tompkins mentioned was all that Mahomet has to offer. With a steady population growth over the past 40 years, greater economic opportunity has emerged. “I also feel the community has become more connected and that our school district has had a great deal to do with that,” said Tompkins. “Many of us get to know each other through activities that our children are participating in, and I see those connections maintaining for a lifetime. I truly feel we have each other's backs here in Mahomet.”

A self-described “eternal optimist”, Tompkins said, “Many of the ‘obstacles and challenges’ that we face are opportunities that other communities would love to have. The growth that we are seeing in the east corridor of Mahomet, both north and south of Route 150, is extremely exciting.”

Tompkins has carefully thought through the developmental changes and added, “We need to make sure this is measured growth. I have seen first-hand the incredible amount of time and effort that goes into each new development. Making certain that our village staff (1) has the necessary tools they need to bring the right type of growth is quite critical, and (2) that the village is fostering a positive and productive environment for those who bring their businesses to Mahomet are both critical to our ultimate success. Treating others as you would like to be treated had never been more true and more needed in our world today.”

Residents of the Timber Ridge subdivision for 25 years, the Tompkins Family is deeply appreciative of the relationships that have developed within their neighborhood. Although their home was still under construction when they purchased, Jason said, “It did not take long for the street to be completed, and our subdivision quickly became a community. We could not have picked a better neighborhood for our family. We have the best neighbors, and we all look out for each other.”

Jason, Jill and their two daughters are a tight-knit family. With both girls being full-time students at U of I, their family values the time they get to spend together. “Experiencing all that life has to offer keeps us busy, and they’re memories I will cherish all of my life.” said Jason.

“My father used to tell me that you cannot learn anything with your mouth open,” remembered Jason, fondly. “Some of the most pivotal moments in my life have taken place when I listened instead of talked, and I am committed to being a good listener. I believe Mahomet has unbelievable days ahead, and listening to our residents will be a big part of our success.”