Why I’m Running for Village Trustee—And Why It Matters to You
Hi friends - I want to take a moment to share deeper from the heart about my decision to run for Village Trustee of Arlington Heights.
It’s not just about politics—it’s about people. It’s about all of us who live, work, and raise our families here. It’s about the places we love, the small businesses that make this town unique, and the neighbors who turn a community into a home.
Who I Am and Why I Care
Arlington Heights isn’t just where I live—it’s where I grew up, where I’m raising my kids, and where I’ve built my life’s work. As a licensed clinical social worker and Executive Director of Shelter, Inc., I’ve spent my career helping families navigate difficult times, advocating for children in crisis, and finding real solutions to real problems. That’s what I do. I listen, I problem-solve, and I fight for the people who need it most.
But here’s the thing—those skills don’t just apply to social work. They apply to leadership. They apply to making sure our community is thriving and that decisions made at the village level actually reflect our needs.
What I Want to See for Arlington Heights
I don’t believe in making promises just to get elected. I believe in action. And here’s what I’m ready to work on to make our community a better place:
Strengthening Community Services – Every resident, from families to seniors, should have access to the support and services they need. I’ve spent my career making sure people don’t fall through the cracks, and I want to bring that same passion to our local government.
Promoting Economic Growth – Our small businesses are the heartbeat of Arlington Heights. Let’s not just support them—we need to create opportunities for growth, attract smart investments, and make sure our village remains a great place to live AND work.
Enhancing Public Safety – Safety isn’t just about numbers and policies—it’s about people feeling secure in their neighborhoods. I’ll work to strengthen partnerships between law enforcement and our community while addressing the root causes of issues, not just the symptoms.
Encouraging Civic Engagement – The best decisions are made when we all have a seat at the table. I want to make sure the voices of our residents are heard and that local government is transparent, approachable, and working FOR you, not above you.
Why This Election Matters
The choices we make today shape the Arlington Heights of tomorrow. I believe in fiscally responsible leadership, smart growth, and making decisions that serve our community—not just for today, but for future generations.
This isn’t just about me running for Trustee. It’s about us, as a community, stepping up, getting involved, and making our voices heard. I’m here to listen. I’m here to work. And I’d be honored to serve.
Let’s do this - together.
With gratitude,
Carina Santa Maria
➡️ Join the conversation! Drop a comment below or send me a message—what’s on YOUR mind about Arlington Heights? What do you want to see change? Let’s talk!
