2023 Darien Election Profile: George A. Reilly For P&Z Commission

DARIEN, CT — Election Day on Nov. 7 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot in Darien.

Patch reached out to candidates for local office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing the town.

Name

George A. Reilly

How old will you be as of Election Day?

69

What city or town do you live in?

Darien

What office are you seeking?

Member, Planning & Zoning Commission

Please give us your party affiliation.

Democrat

Education.

Union College, B.A.; Fordham U. School of Law, J.D.

What is your occupation?

Attorney

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

Spouse: Lynn Oakford Reilly; Sons Peter (33; married to Kirstin Snell of Fairfield; three children Declan [4], McKenna and Brooks [18 months]); Matthew (32) and Christopher (30)

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

Darien Board of Education (2001 - 2011); Darien Board of Selectmen (1999 - 2001); Chair, Police Headquarters Building Committee (2008 - 2010); Darien Charter Revision Commission (1998-1999)

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I want to continue to play a role in the important issues before the Planning & Zoning Commission including proposals to convert commercial buildings to residences, the demand for more affordable housing including accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and flooding concerns.

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

Growth of multi-use buildings adding significant residences with the traffic issues and school enrollment that come with them. Our Zoning Regulations permits new multi-use buildings but the commission must carefully review plans for reasonable size, traffic flow, commercial uses, and safety issues.

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

I am an attorney and native of Darien so I bring unique background, history and experience to the commission as it considers planning issues and specific projects for the future.

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

I have served for four years on the Planning & Zoning Commission, and I believe I have participated with useful questions and arguments concerning pending issues even when I am alone in my positions.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Make top priorities: faith, country, family, and fun!

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I have made substantial commitments to serving the community as trustee for 10 years at King School (7 years as president); member of the board of Family Centers in Greenwich; and twelve years on the board of Norwalk Community College Foundation (3 years at Chair).