Patch Candidate Profile: Patrizia Zucaro, Planning & Zoning Commission

WESTPORT, CT — Election Day is approaching fast, and a number of key positions in Westport will be on the ballot, including Board of Selectman, Board of Education, Board of Finance, RTM and others.

To help readers make an informed decision on Nov. 7, Westport 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 few weeks, so check back often to see the latest.

Name

Patrizia Zucaro

What city or town do you live in?

Westport

What office are you seeking?

Westport Planning and Zoning Comission

Please give us your party affiliation.

Republican

Education.

Juris Doctorate

What is your occupation?

Attorney, 11 years

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

My parents and 2 older brothers.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

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

Yes, Westport Planning and Zoning Commissioner.

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 am running to be a part of the Westport Planning and Zoning committee because I believe it is important to protect and serve our community. I am a Westport native and I strongly support Westport remaining a quaint New England town – not a city.

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

For too long Westport has been on a trajectory of over development, inadequate infrastructure and environmental concerns. Now, more than ever, is an important time for Westport to invest in smart and transparent Town planning. We must carefully balance the needs of residents and businesses to ensure that Westport has sufficient infrastructure to handle its growing development, protect our environment, reduce overcrowding in our schools and preserve Westport’s unique and vibrant community.

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

In 2012, after a decade in real estate, I became a license attorney in both Connecticut and New York. I have served for the past 2 ½ years as a Westport Planning and Zoning Commissioner have proven my ability to be an excellent listener and an even stronger advocate.

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

The Westport Planning and Zoning commission must focus on the needs of property owners while developing a cohesive town-wide zoning plan. For too long the commission has taken a layered approach to planning instead of rolling-up their sleeves to create a smart comprehensive transparent zoning plan.

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

My work as a Westport Planning and Zoning Commissioner for the past 2 1/2 years.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

There is not one piece of good advice that stands out for me; rather, good advice is all around us, we just have to be willing to listen.

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

I want voters to know that this campaign is about Westport and what is right for the people who live here. I will listen to and focus on the needs of my constituents. I will advocate for policies that will balance Westport’s unique and vibrant community and foster growth while protecting our environment. It would be an honor to serve this community again in the capacity of a Planning and Zoning Commissioner.