Brian Leonardi Running For Newtown Planning & Zoning Alternate

NEWTOWN, CT — Election Day is approaching fast, and a number of key positions in Newtown will be on the ballot.

To help readers make an informed decision on Nov. 2, Patch has reached out to local candidates to share their views on various topics of importance in town.

Patch will post these candidate profiles over the next couple of weeks, so check back often to see the latest.

Republican Brian Leonardi, 38, is running for Planning & Zoning Alternate.

Occupation: Attorney

Family: Elena, 39; Avianna, 7; Marcella, 5

Experience: Not applicable

Family in government: Not applicable

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

The single most pressing issue facing our town is the need to keep planning & zoning a local issue. There has been increasing interest amongst certain groups within the state legislature to remove the power of local planning & zoning commissions and and give that power to the state. I will be an unabashed advocate of keeping planning & zoning a local issue that is decided by town residents - not elected officials who do not represent or understand the wants and needs of the citizens of Newtown.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

I'm a licensed attorney with nearly a decade's worth of experience. I know how to analyze laws, regulations, and ordinances against facts, while removing emotion from the equation. In the long run, this limits potential legal liability the town may face that, in turn, and can give rise to increased taxes and other costs for town residents.

Accomplishments:

I have worked in a legal and compliance capacity for global organizations. In these roles and I've been required to analyze complex issues and provide practical and thoughtful guidance for my clients. I look forward to brining that same pragmatic approach to Planning & Zoning.

Other issues:

Contributing to the economic growth that Newtown has seen over the past 5+ years and while balancing the desire to maintain the small town feel that we all love about Newtown.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

Serving in a public capacity is something that I have aspired to since I was young. Representing my neighbors and the broader community would be both a great honor and privilege.