Patch Candidate Profile: Leanna Hinger, Brookfield ZBA

BROOKFIELD, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Brookfield and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Brookfield Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Leanna Hinger, 29, is running for election to the Brookfield Zoning Board of Appeals, on the Republican ticket.

Education.

I hold a M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction and a B.M in Music Education with a concentration in Voice

What is your occupation?

I am currently in my 7th year of teaching music (middle school chorus) in a neighboring public school district. I have also been working for the Catholic Church since 2010 holding a variety of roles including soloist, cantor, and most presently youth choir director at St. Mary Parish in Bethel.

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

I am fortunate to have grown up in Brookfield and returned back after college where I then met my husband. We are proud to call Brookfield our home and lucky to have extended family also here in town!

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

My husband currently serves on the ZBA in Brookfield. After watching the meetings, I've enjoyed seeing the process, learning about Brookfield zoning issues/regulations, and witnessing the bipartisan nature of the board.

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

I was appointed to the most recent Charter Review Commission.

Why are you seeking this office?

After learning about the push for state wide zoning laws I've taken interest and want to advocate for the rights of individual towns.

I feel that my diverse work experience, ability to collaborate with those of differing opinions, and fresh perspective make me a great candidate.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

State wide zoning. If elected, I plan to advocate for the rights of towns to govern their own zoning.

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

First, I commend all candidates for their willingness to volunteer their time and serve the town. It takes the work of dedicated and vibrant volunteers to better the town of Brookfield.

What sets me apart from other candidates is the new and fresh perspective I can bring to the board. I can effectively collaborate with those of differing opinions and not allow my personal preferences to influence what is best for the community.

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

When I was appointed to the Charter Review commission the board and I worked tirelessly to ensure we acknowledged and weighed all the public's comments and concerns. I enjoyed working in a non-partisan manner and participating in healthy debate to craft revisions to benefit the town.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

A quote that resonates with me that I frequently share with my students is, “The expert at anything was once a beginner.”