Cheshire Election: Casey Downes Running For Planning & Zoning

CHESHIRE, CT — The 2021 municipal election is heating up in Cheshire with plenty of races on the ballot.

Voters will head to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 2 and cast their ballots for seats on the Town Council, Board of Education, Planning and Zoning Commission and more.

Cheshire Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Democrat Casey Downes, 65, is running for election to the Cheshire Planning & Zoning Commission.

Occupation: Retired Special Education Teacher, Currently Working Part-time At Family Business Connecticut Beverage Marts

Family:
Casey Downes
husband Steve Downes
Son Ted Downes
Son Brian Downes & wife Kate - live in Cheshire
Son Kevin Downes & wife Rachel - live in Cleveland
Lived in Cheshire for over 30 years, husband grew up here, raised our children here, intend to stay here.

Experience: Alternate Planning & Zoning

Family in government: No one in my family works in politics or government. Back in the 1960's my father-in-law Ed Downes was the head of the Democratic Committee here in Cheshire, but my husband leans Republican, so it makes for lively discussions.

The single biggest issue in town is ______, and I plan to do this about it:

For Planning & Zoning, I believe it would be to be judicious and thoughtful about changing existing zoning regulations while still allowing businesses to prosper and grow.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

I believe we all have the best interests of Cheshire in mind and in general people would not spend this much time in volunteer meetings if they didn't. We may just look at things a little differently and from a different perspective. I have two years experience as an alternate which I believe gives me the experience I will need to be a full-time commission member.

Accomplishments:

Two years as an alternate and campaigning and listening to what the residents have to say on all sides. People have very strong opinions on what Planning & Zoning does. We need to listen and value their input.

Other issues:

With your vote I would be honored to serve as your steward ensuring that Cheshire's natural beauty and historic character are preserved for future generations.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

That I make decisions you can trust.

Are you running for office in Cheshire? Email vincent.salzo@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate's profile on Cheshire Patch.