At least three Arlington Heights trustees will run in April

Three Arlington Heights village trustees will be on the ballot in April's municipal election, while a fourth is uncommitted and two newcomers are weighing runs for the office.

Carol J. Blackwood, who was appointed to the board in February; Thomas W. Hayes, first elected in 1991; and John Scaletta, first elected in 2007, all say they will seek more time on the village board.

Tom Stengren, first elected in 1991, is circulating nominating petitions, but said he has not yet decided whether he will seek re-election.

Blackwood said she supports Tax Increment Financing districts to help attract and keep businesses, which she thinks is critical for job creation. A mixture of national anchor stores, as well as local businesses are important, she said.

The village also should support the Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce's campaign to get residents to shop locally, Blackwood added.

Hayes said as a longer-serving trustee he will continue to provide historical perspective to the decision-making process.

“I also look forward to the challenge of seeing us through these difficult economic times, he said.

Scarletta agreed, saying the budgeting process is much more challenging than when he first ran.

“Each year I learn more and more about the process, he said. “It's easy to say ‘Let's take it out of reserves,' but we need to protect our bond rating.

Edwina Corso, village clerk, said she could not give out the names of the other two potential candidates without their permission.

Nominating petitions are available in the village clerk's office for trustee and Arlington Heights Library Board. The petitions must be filed between Dec. 13 and 20. Contests for school district boards, park boards, and community colleges also will be on the April 5 ballot.