Candidate for Zoning Board of Appeals | 2021
My name is Ben Charney and I am running for reelection to the Killingworth Zoning Board of Appeals. I am a lifelong resident of Connecticut, a graduate of UConn and a native of Guilford.
I have served as an alternate on the Zoning Board of Appeals since first being elected in 2017, attending every meeting since joining the Board. While political parties nominate candidates for the ZBA, we operate in a highly collaborative and non-partisan fashion. Our board is a team of neighbors helping neighbors to achieve their personal goals, while acting as responsible stewards of this beautiful town.
I’ve been fascinated with cars, engines and construction for my entire life. A love of drawing and photography led me to pursue a degree in fine arts and then to work as a graphic designer at a large architectural firm. I ultimately combined my mechanical and technical curiosities with my interest in buildings to ultimately pursue a career in Building Systems and Services.
My wife, Maureen, and I have been proud to call Killingworth home since 2016 and look forward to continually give back to this amazing community for years to come.
Candidate Q&A
Why are you running for the position?
My name is Ben Charney and I am running for reelection to the Killingworth ZBA because volunteerism is it at the heart of what it means to live in Killingworth. Serving on the ZBA has given me the opportunity to give back to this amazing community while leveraging my own expertise and interests.
What do you see as the important issues facing your town and how would you address them in your role?
Two of the most important issues facing our town are the changing housing requirements and needs of residents while continuing our town’s strong track record of keeping taxes low without risk to preserving what we all love about Killingworth.
The ZBA is instrumental in addressing both of these issues by working with residents who come before the board in finding creative solutions to meet the individual housing needs of growing families, long time residents who wish to stay in town, and the increased number of residents working or operating a business from home.
By helping our neighbors through these complex challenges, the ZBA is able to preserve the character of our Town while enhancing the Grand List which keeps our mil rate low.
What are the key things you love about this town and its people?
What attracted us to Killingworth is the rural beauty; the secluded oasis just moments from the Shoreline. Upon calling Killingworth home, it has been the spirit of volunteerism and selfless dedication to the community by the community that truly makes this a special place.
Additional thoughts to leave voters with?
While most residents may never have the opportunity to come before the ZBA, our Board serves a vital function within town. Should you ever have the need for our services don’t be worried about the
Killingworth Democratic Town Committee 