Orange Candidate Profile: Judy Smith For Town Planning and Zoning

ORANGE, CT — Election day in Orange is drawing closer, and to help residents make an informed decision on Nov. 5, Orange Patch asked candidates for various elected offices to answer questions about their campaigns and the issues in town.

Judy Smith, 57, is the owner/operator of the Orange Hill Country Club, and she is seeking re-election to the Town Planning and Zoning Commission. She is a Republican who is currently the commission's Vice Chair.

She holds a BS in Marketing from the University of Connecticut, and an MBA in Restaurant and Hotel Management from the University of New Haven. She is also the mother to three children, Justin, 30, Jennifer, 27, and Rebecca, 24.

The single most pressing issue facing Orange is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Maintaining a vibrant and sustainable economic tax base while balancing the quality of life of the residents of Orange.

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

I have been serving on the Town Planning and Zoning Board for over 25 years. During my time on the Board I have consistently worked to protect both the economic tax base and the character that continues to attract residents to Orange.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

I feel we need to continue to provide housing options for Orange seniors who would like to downsize while remaining members of their community. Continue to acquire and preserve open space so we maintain the special character of Orange.

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

Listen to all points of view, look at both sides of an issue in a thorough and deliberate way...and always be diligent.