Endorsement: Canty, LaBedz, Scaletta, Schwingbeck for Arlington Heights village board
The Arlington Heights village board will be losing two noteworthy trustees following the April 2 election.
Mike Sidor, who has been both collaborative and independent in his eight years on the village board, chose to term limit himself. Carol Blackwood, whose breadth of experience in appointed and elective office spans more than a quarter of a century, also decided against running for re-election.
Both have been strong voices for the business community.
They have contributed greatly to a village board that has worked effectively to help build a vibrant community that is the envy of its neighbors.
There is plenty of reason to be confident that the community's progress will continue.
Four village board seats are up for election, and the voters will choose among five capable candidates.
Two are incumbents: Robin LaBedz, whose breadth of community and civic experience is as long as Blackwood's; and John Scaletta, a three-term trustee who has long been active with the business, arts and philanthropic communities in town.
Both have been outstanding board members with keen intellects, and we endorse them for re-election enthusiastically.
We're also excited about the candidacy of Mary Beth Canty and strongly endorse her.
A management consultant and member of the board of the League of Women Voters, Canty seems well equipped to contribute with her legal background and collaborative problem-solving experience.
Just as important, she would add needed diversity both with her biracial roots and with her fresh ideas and perspective.
The choice for the fourth open seat is more difficult.
Laurie Taylor, president of the Northgate Civic Association, is, as advertised, a "people person" who has long been active in civic affairs.
Zoning board member Tom Schwingbeck Jr., who ran unsuccessfully for the village board four years ago, owns his own business and has a history of civic involvement.
Both are qualified and enthusiastic. It's a tough call, but we endorse Schwingbeck because of the insights he has gained through his zoning board experience.