Endorsements: Blackwood, LaBedz, Scaletta, Sidor for Arlington Heights trustee
The village of Arlington Heights, like most suburban municipalities, has some major issues coming its way in the months ahead.
The future of the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre is uncertain, expansion of the police station is under serious study, the village's infrastructure is in decay and flooding is a recurring problem. Add to that list the uncertainty of funding from Springfield, where cuts advocated by new Gov. Bruce Rauner would present a $3.7 million shortfall, and you've got substantial challenges that will confront the village.
We believe the village board includes an experienced array of trustees who are up to the task - Carol Blackwood, Robin LaBedz, John Scaletta and Mike Sidor.
In many ways, they're a diverse group, in terms of perspectives as well as constituencies and personalities. Each is collaborative yet independent in her or his own decision-making. They don't always agree with each other but they work hard and work together to try to reach solutions that are best for Arlington Heights. All have a wealth of experience, not just on the village board but in a variety of civic activities in the village. They have long records of commitment to the community.
Blackwood, LaBedz, Scaletta and Sidor have been good for Arlington Heights, and we endorse their elections to the village board.
The two challengers in the race - D. Court Harris, a member of the village fire and police commission and son of state Rep. David Harris; and engineer Thomas Schwingbeck Jr. - are solid candidates with strong backgrounds. They likely could be good board members.
But Blackwood, LaBedz, Scaletta and Sidor already are good board members. They deserve retention.