I’m running for
Brookline Select Board.
Read the candidate profile on Brookline.News.
David Pearlman Select Board Member
“Carlos is a strong leader committed to pragmatic solutions to address our structural deficit without sacrificing essential services or relying on endless overrides. His professional expertise as a LEED-accredited architect and experience on the Advisory Committee as a key participant on multiple mixed use economic development efforts will add a crucial skill set to the Select Board at a critical time.”
South Brookline Neighborhood candidates’ forum
Regina Frawley, Town Meeting Member for Precinct 16 , moderates an excellent town-hall style candidates’ forum on town and south Brookline issues.
The event was in person, but recorded on zoom.
Climate Action Brookline candidates’ forum
John Harris, chair of Climate Action Brookline, moderates an exciting candidates’ forum on climate issues and how they relate to Brookline.
We discussed:
How committed are the candidates to addressing the climate crisis?
How familiar are they with Brookline’s responses so far?
What are their ideas re expanding Brookline’s response?
Will Brookline remain a leader in responding to the climate crisis?
BrooklineCAN and the League of Women Voters candidates’ forum
Devon Fields, former Assistant Town Administrator for Operations, moderates a candidates’ forum on town issues.
The event was in person, and recorded on BIG.
Select Board discussion begins at 1:06:55
Why people are endorsing Carlos.
Antonia Bellalta former Park and Recreation Commissioner
“Carlos is the candidate that already has a realistic perspective on Town finances. As an architect, his sound vision on how we grow is instrumental in accomplishing the Town of Brookline’s goals in a holistic manner for all residents.”
Jesse Hefter School Committee
“If you want a Select Board member with deep experience in Brookline Town government, a proven record of collaboration and understanding, and solid ideas for our Town's future, Carlos is your candidate.”
Mark Zarillo Planning Board
“I have known Carlos for at least 20 years and served on a number of planning committees with him. The complex issues facing Brookline are intertwined with past, current and future planning decisions that must be made by multidimensional thinking, action and decisiveness. I believe Carlos is the candidate that can do this.”
Eric Hyett former Town Meeting Member
“Carlos will bring an architect’s perspective to the Select Board, he is focused on building the Brookline community.”
Rep Tommy Vitolo:
TV on TV Candidates Series Interview
Representative Tommy Vitolo continues the 2025 election series with Carlos Ridruejo, candidate for Select Board. Carlos, who has experience on Brookline's Advisory Committee, details how his sense for civic duty grew after immigrating from Spain. He also explains how he would use his expertise in architecture to think abstractly about space and concretely about cost when addressing, for example, the Comprehensive Plan in Brookline.
Why I am running…
Running for Select Board is a decision I’ve considered for several years, and I believe now is the right time to step forward.
Brookline is not just where I live—it’s home. I immigrated to the United States to pursue architectural studies, met my wife, and chose Brookline as the place to raise our family. My deep commitment to this town grew even stronger when I became a U.S. citizen in 2016, sparking my passion for civic duty. Brookline is a shining example of what can be achieved when a community truly cares for one another.
Serving on the Advisory Committee over the past few years has been an invaluable experience, offering me insight into the workings of municipal government. I’ve had the privilege of contributing as a member of the Land Use, Zoning, and Sustainability Subcommittee, as well as serving on the Capital Subcommittee.
My background as a registered architect has also enabled me to contribute to several important town committees, including the Boylston Street Study Committee, the Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study Committee, the Newbury/Fisher Hill Zoning Committee, and the Housing Production Plan. Additionally, I’ve served on various Design Advisory Teams, such as those for the Waldo-Durgin project and the Kisco (Balfour) Senior Housing on Fisher Hill.
As a past president of the Town Meeting Members Association, I’ve engaged with many Town Meeting Members, gaining a deep understanding of the concerns, priorities, and challenges facing our constituents. I recognize the pressing issues we need to address, such as climate change, housing pressures, and the tax burden on our most vulnerable residents.
I am enthusiastic about Brookline’s future and committed to working hard over the next several months to earn your trust and your vote. Together, we can build an even stronger, more vibrant community.
Please contact me with any questions or comments. I’m here to listen.
Thank you.