Endorsement: Hayes for Arlington Heights village president

It will be no easy task to replace Arlene Mulder, who is stepping down after 20 years leading a vibrant renewal of Arlington Heights. Fortunately, three strong candidates are running, each with impressive credentials. Of those, our choice is Thomas Hayes, a trustee since 1991, the village president pro tem since 1999 during Mulder’s occasional absences and one the finest people you’ll ever encounter in local politics. Honest, straightforward, caring, a collaborator who gains the respect of those who work with him. Both other contestants, former Avondale, Ariz., Mayor Ron Drake and Housing Commissioner Mark Hellner raise questions about the village’s business climate. But while we agree new ideas always should be considered, we also believe Arlington Heights has become a model for other suburbs during the tenures of Mulder and Hayes. Are there empty stores? A few, yes. But surprisingly few in light of the recent economy. Arlington Heights is progressing. Consider this: Last year, the village lost its movie theater. In these times, what town that lost one has been able to replace it? It’s almost unheard of. Well, Arlington Heights has. That’s aggressive innovation that speaks well of the village’s direction. Stay the course. Tom Hayes for village president.