Arlington’s Big Win with the Bears

Arlington Park Racetrack, 2022 (Photo by. Sea Cow)

Yesterday, we talked about my proactive approach to shaping Arlington Park’s future and how staying on the offense is the only way to ensure our Village gets the best outcome, with or without the Chicago Bears. Today, let’s dig into what happens if the Bears do move here. It’s a big opportunity, and I’m ready to make it a win for us—not just for them.

Picture this: the Bears build their stadium on part of the 326-acre Arlington Park site. They won’t need all of it—about 200 acres would still be up for grabs. That’s a massive canvas for redevelopment. As your mayor, I’ll step up with a plan our community can rally behind and developers we trust to bring to life. By getting ahead of the game, we can streamline the process for everyone while keeping our priorities front and center.

Here’s how I see this playing out as a victory for Arlington Heights:

• Data-Driven Decisions: I’ll demand solid data and impact studies—on traffic, infrastructure, and more—so we can make informed choices that work for us.

• Your Voice Matters: Before anything’s final, I’ll bring residents, businesses, and experts together to shape a plan that reflects what we want.

• Fair Financials: The Bears want tax certainty, and I get that. In return, I’ll secure revenue certainty to protect your property taxes and our small businesses from any burden.

• Smart Traffic Control: I’ll partner with IDOT, using data-driven solutions and community input to ensure roads, transit, and services are thoughtfully designed to manage traffic, minimize noise, and keep our neighborhoods safe.

• Jobs and Growth: A stadium and smart development will bring jobs in retail, hospitality, and entertainment, boosting our economy and keeping taxes sustainable.

• A Year-Round Hub: Imagine a vibrant district with sports, concerts, and events that draw visitors and support local businesses—plus new parks and amenities for you.

  
  

Arlington Park could be the perfect home for the Bears, but it has to work for us too. With my hands-on business leadership and years of negotiation experience from my Chamber work, I’m uniquely equipped to lead this effort. I know how to strike deals that deliver. That’s why I’m the strongest candidate to ensure this partnership benefits Arlington Heights and I’m ready to lead us forward. Together, we’ll build a future we’re proud of. I’m asking for your vote to make it happen.

Have thoughts? Reach out—I’d love to hear from you.