Stengren advocates Hayes as next mayor

I had the honor to serve with Tom Hayes for 20 years on the Arlington Heights board of trustees. It was apparent during our first campaign that Tom was an honest and sincere candidate. I admired his knowledge of the issues and the thought he put into his views.

Tom and I both had the good fortune to be elected in 1991, which enabled me to have a close look at his decision-making process. When Tom spoke to an issue, the entire board paid close attention to everything he had to say. It was apparent that Tom was very thoughtful, articulate and convincing in expressing his ideas.

His leadership was evident even in those early days. As Tom grew more experienced and we realized he was a man of integrity, fellow board members would seek his opinions. Tom would be the trustee to whom I would turn to discuss a delicate or significant issue.

While we didn’t always agree on every issue, I still valued Tom’s opinion. In those instances, he was a perfect devil’s advocate, because I knew Tom would clearly articulate the other side of the topic.

I know that I want a mayor with innate leadership skills who is also thoughtful yet measured in his approach to problems. Tom’s experience as a trustee and President Pro-Tem has shown me that Tom Hayes possesses the qualities I’d like in our next mayor. On April 9, I’ll be casting my vote for Tom Hayes for village president.

Tom Stengren

Arlington Heights