Creating an Inclusive Arlington Heights

Ridler tells his story and describes his vision for a community where everyone feels like “one of us.” (Click to watch!)

I grew up in a small Minnesota town of 1,500, where everyone knew each other, helped out in tough times, and looked after one another’s families. When I moved here, I found that same spirit in Arlington Heights—a community of 70,000 that still cares deeply for its own. That’s what I’ve loved most since I started serving here in 2004.

For years, I poured myself into this village—working five days a week, plus evenings and weekends, not just as Chamber Director but through the Economic Alliance Commission, village meetings, and nonprofits that change lives. I met incredible people and saw the impact of our social services, public programs, and community support firsthand. It’s made me feel part of something bigger.

In 2013, my wife and I decided to move our family here from Elgin. With four kids, it took time to make it work financially and emotionally—our oldest daughter was already in 10th grade. We wanted our kids to experience Arlington Heights’ schools, services, and everything this village offers.

I was at a golf outing when I found out our offer on a house was accepted, I was thrilled. A longtime supporter and local leader congratulated me, saying, “That’s great. Now you’ll be one of us.”

That hit me hard. For years, I’d worked tirelessly in this community—yet because I didn’t live here, I wasn’t fully “one of us.” Even with all I’d done, I was still on the outside. It’s a feeling some of you might know, too—an “us versus them” divide that shouldn’t exist. As mayor, I want to change that.

I’ve spent my career breaking down barriers and bringing people together. The residents who feel on the fringe? You’re the stakeholders I want at the table. We won’t always agree, but I’ll always listen. My strength is inclusion—understanding that anyone who wants to contribute belongs here, no matter where they’re from or how long they’ve lived here. As mayor, I’ll champion that vision, working with our village board and staff to make Arlington Heights a community where everyone feels like “one of us.”

Vote for me, and let’s build that future together.