2001 Candidates
Roger GarbowZoning Board of Appeals
2001 Candidates
Roger Garbow
The Zoning Board of Appeals is one of those things you don't really think about much -until you bump up against strict zoning regulations. Then it's all you think about.
Imagine, for example, you want to add a long-needed garage to your house. But doing so would put you six inches too close to the property next door. The zoning officer has no choice but to say no. Six inches! Arrggghh!
Who ya gonna call?
Exactly. The Zoning Board of Appeals has the power to reevaluate the rules on your behalf when you can demonstrate that those rules create a hardship for you.
But on the other hand, you don't want a ZBA that'll give the thumbs up to someone wanting to build a three-story mansion amidst your neighborhood of charming lake cottages.
The ZBA has to balance the needs of individual homeowners with the goals of the Town and its neighborhoods.
So here's where I stand: I support the new Floor Area Ratios, designed to check the growth of outsize houses on unsuitable lots. I'm behind the Town's efforts to preserve precious open space. And, since I'm not a lawyer, I have more of the grassroots homeowner's perspective. I believe that the zoning code should help homeowners, not confound and frustrate them.
Reasonability, flexibility and, above all, the willingness to listen - that is what I can bring to the Zoning Board of Appeals. And, while ZBA may not be among your greatest concerns at the moment, it's well worth your consideration this election. Because the time may come when you'll be glad I'm there.
Brought to you by the Ridgefield, Ct.
Democratic Town Committee, Susan D. Cocco, Chairman
Paid for by The Ridgefield Democratic Town Committee, Edwin C. Pearson, Treasurer
2001 Candidates