Carlos Aparicio, Hinsdale Trustee Candidate

HINSDALE, IL – Carlos Aparicio is one of the four candidates for three seats on the Hinsdale Village Board.

Here are his responses to the Patch questionnaire:

Name:

Carlos P. Aparicio

Town of residence:

Hinsdale

Age:

39

Campaign or contact email:

Aparicio4Hinsdale@gmail.com

Family:

Alexa Pesmen Aparicio (wife), Daughter 3.5, son 21 months and expecting a third child in July 2025!

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education: Lewis University (BA); DePaul University (coursework for MPA completed); and University of Illinois Chicago School of Law (JD)

Occupation:

Attorney – private practice

Previous or current elected or appointed office:

None

The single most pressing issue facing the village is public safety and this is what I intend to do about it.

Public safety is at the heart of a thriving community, and I believe we have to take a proactive, prevention-first approach to keeping our village safe. Every resident deserves to feel secure in their home, their neighborhood, and their business.

We’ve all heard about thefts, property damage, and porch piracy happening nearby. We can drastically reduce this by ensuring our police have the tools, training, and community partnerships needed to deter it before it happens. That’s why I am committed to working hand-in hand with our police, local businesses, community members, and state and county leaders to implement smart, responsible safety strategies that strengthen our community’s protection while respecting our village’s character.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I bring a unique combination of hands-on experience in government, public service, and community leadership that sets me apart. I’ve successfully managed budgets, collaborated with local and state agencies, and tackled real issues that matter to residents. My focus isn’t on politics but on practical solutions, responsible leadership, and ensuring that every decision benefits Hinsdale families and businesses.

I believe in listening first, understanding what our residents need, working across political lines to get things done, and ensuring transparency and accountability in every decision. While others may talk about change, I’ve spent my career making it happen.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Throughout my career, I’ve led initiatives that required smart financial management, strong collaboration, and community engagement. I have worked with police departments as a civilian and sworn officer, coordinated efforts across multiple levels of government, and even helped draft legislation that still has an impact today.

I understand how to navigate government complexities, secure funding, and bring people together to make meaningful progress. My approach has always been about results, not politics. If elected, I’ll use that same dedication to ensure Hinsdale remains a safe, thriving, and well managed community for generations to come.

Are the village government's taxes too high, too low or just about right? Explain.

Hinsdale’s tax structure is fair and balanced, ensuring we can fund essential services like public safety, road repairs, and community programs without overburdening residents. However, I believe there is always room for improvement when it comes to fiscal responsibility and smart budgeting.

My priority is to make sure every tax dollar is spent wisely and that we’re taking full advantage of available state, county, and federal funding to reduce the strain on local taxpayers. I will work to identify efficiencies, cut unnecessary costs, and find innovative ways to fund critical services without raising taxes.

Hinsdale’s financial future depends on responsible planning and transparent budgeting. That means regularly reviewing revenue and expenses to ensure that our taxes remain fair, services stay strong, and residents get the most value for their money.

What is your view of the village's maintenance of its infrastructure?

Hinsdale’s well-maintained infrastructure is one of the main reasons our village remains such a desirable place to live. While we’ve done a solid job keeping up with roads, utilities, parks, and public spaces, we must continue investing strategically in preventative maintenance to avoid bigger, more expensive issues down the line.

I believe in a smart, proactive approach that ensures our roads stay smooth, our parks remain beautiful, and our public services run efficiently without unnecessary costs to taxpayers. By making the most of available funding, including state and federal grants, we can enhance and modernize our infrastructure while keeping taxes fair and reasonable.

Our community deserves safe, reliable, and future-ready infrastructure, and I’m committed to making sure that Hinsdale continues to thrive for generations to come.

What is your assessment of the police department's performance?

Hinsdale is incredibly fortunate to have a highly dedicated and professional police department that goes above and beyond to keep our community safe. Their strong presence, quick response times, and proactive engagement with residents make a real difference in ensuring Hinsdale remains one of the safest and most welcoming places to live.

I believe in continuing to invest in our officers by providing ongoing training, modern resources, and innovative policing strategies. Expanding the use of retired officers and community service personnel for non-emergency tasks would help ensure that our active-duty officers can focus on crime prevention and emergency response, keeping our neighborhoods even safer. I fully support our police force’s commitment to excellence and community trust and will work to ensure they have the resources and support needed to protect and serve all Hinsdaleans.

Was the village right to provide incentives for owners of historical homes? Why or why not?

Absolutely! Hinsdale’s historic charm is part of what makes our village so special, and protecting it is important. These incentives help homeowners preserve the unique character and craftsmanship of their homes while ensuring that future generations can continue to appreciate our town’s rich architectural heritage.

By encouraging thoughtful restoration and responsible upkeep, we’re not just preserving history, we’re also strengthening property values, maintaining the beauty of our neighborhoods, and keeping Hinsdale an attractive place for new families and businesses.

Investing in our past is an investment in our future, and I fully support smart policies that help preserve the heart and soul of our community.

Should the village allow video gambling or recreational marijuana sales in town? Why or why not?

I am opposed to any support for permitting video gambling or recreational marijuana sales in Hinsdale. Our community is built on values of family-friendliness, safety, and a high quality of life. Introducing these types of businesses could challenge the character and social fabric that residents cherish – this is a main staple of why Hinsdale is very attractive to families. I believe that any business venture in our village should align with the vision of maintaining a secure, welcoming, and community-oriented environment.

State law requires towns such as Hinsdale to submit affordable housing plans, but the village is late by nearly a decade. Should the village turn in a plan? Why or why not?

Following state law is important, and I believe Hinsdale should take a thoughtful and community-driven approach to addressing this requirement. However, any plan must prioritize what’s best for Hinsdale residents: protecting property values, maintaining our village’s historic charm, and ensuring any decisions align with long-term fiscal responsibility.

I support a data-driven, transparent process that includes meaningful input from residents to ensure that any approach balances state compliance with the needs and character of our community.

How do you feel about gated neighborhoods?

I believe a community's true strength lies in its openness and inclusivity. Gated communities can sometimes inadvertently contribute to social isolation and limit interaction among neighbors in adjacent areas. I support neighborhood designs that foster community engagement, shared spaces, and an environment where every resident feels welcome and connected.

Should the village president and trustees take political contributions from village contractors or those with zoning or other matters before the board? Why or why not?

I firmly believe that transparency and the avoidance of any conflicts of interest are vital to maintaining public trust. Accepting political contributions from individuals who have matters pending before the board creates the appearance, or even the reality, of undue influence.

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family?

Absolutely not. If elected, I am fully committed to serving the entire term and dedicating my energy to the needs of Hinsdale. I take my responsibility to this community seriously, and my years of public service reflect that dedication. I would step aside if faced with truly unforeseen circumstances.
My wife and I make important family decisions together, and when I mentioned running for office, we had a thoughtful, honest conversation. Her support was unwavering because we both believe in protecting and strengthening the community we call home. As a family with young children who will grow up in Hinsdale, my commitment to ensuring the best future for all of us has never been stronger.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

Hinsdale is where my family is growing, and hopefully, my children will build their future. I am deeply committed to protecting our village's character, safety, and prosperity so it remains a place where families thrive for generations to come.

With experience in both government and the private sector, I understand the importance of transparency, collaboration, and fiscal responsibility.
This campaign is a commitment to safeguarding the future of the town my family and I cherish. As your trustee, I will listen to all voices, work tirelessly to find fiscally responsible solutions that strengthen our community, and ensure Hinsdale continues to be a place we are all proud to call home.