Patch Candidate Profile: Nancy Dickal, Shelton P&Z Commission

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

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

Democrat Nancy Dickal is a Shelton resident running for the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Education.

Milford High School, and University of New Haven.

What is your occupation?

Retired.

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

Husband: Alan, married 39 years.

Daughters: Dawn and Lisa. Dawn works in nuclear medicine and her off hours is spent guiding as a group leader for outdoor sports primarily in extreme hiking.

Lisa is our Shelton/Derby animal control officer and much of her time is spent rehabilitating our local wildlife. She has been licensed by the state of CT for over 10 years and loves focusing within our community and the rest of the Valley.

Both girls are alumni of the Shelton School system. Also two grandsons: Michael and Alexander.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

I do not.

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

Planning and Zoning, also as an alternate, and Apportionment and Taxation.

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 will continue to bring attention to important issues such as over-use of Planned Development Districts (PDD). Believes any town or city position must make residents a priority. And in the last few years, I have been working alongside my daughter with wildlife and conservation. These topics are also important in preserving our beautiful environment.

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

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is having all voices heard. I intend to listen and engage with the residents of Shelton. I am a firm believer that a position such as this should be one of true service.

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

The ability to unite with both political parties and get things done.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

Developments, parking issues downtown, conservation and open space.

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

As a former planning and zoning commissioner, and alternate, I understand the responsibilities of the position.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Don't ever give up.