Cheshire Election 2025: Anita Blake Running For Planning & Zoning Commission

CHESHIRE, CT — The 2025 municipal election is heating up in Cheshire with plenty of races on the ballot.

Voters will cast their ballots in the Nov. 4 election for seats on the Town Council, Board of Education, Planning and Zoning Commission and more.

Cheshire Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Anita Blake is running for re-election to the Cheshire Planning & Zoning Commission as a Republican.

Campaign Website
https://www.cheshiregop.org/to...

Occupation:

Director of Marketing (Financial Services); 30+ years

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
For the past 4 years, I've been a Planning & Zoning Commission alternate

Why are you seeking this office?
I am running for a full seat on the Planning & Zoning Commission to be a dedicated advocate for the residents of Cheshire. Building on my experience as an alternate commissioner, I am committed to ensuring that every voice is heard before decisions are made, empowering residents to protect what matters most to them—whether that’s their property values, open spaces or the small-town character that makes Cheshire unique. As a small farm owner that backs up to open space, I deeply understand the value of preserving our community’s natural beauty and rural heritage. My focus is on fiscal responsibility and thoughtful, long-term planning that safeguards our quality of life and maintains the special qualities that define Cheshire today and for the future.

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 the pressure of overdevelopment, particularly the increase in affordable housing projects that many residents feel threaten our small-town charm. While state laws like 8-30g limit our ability to deny applications except for serious health or safety concerns, and the recent veto of HB 5002 was a critical win to preserve local zoning control, the challenge remains ongoing. I am committed to vigorously defending Cheshire’s right to make our own zoning decisions, resisting any efforts from Hartford to diminish local authority. Cheshire knows best what our community needs, and I will continue to be a strong advocate to keep zoning decisions in the hands of our residents, ensuring the character and quality of our town are protected.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I think the main difference is the perspective I bring. I haven’t been on the commission as long as some of the other candidates, and that gives me a fresh viewpoint that complements the experience already on the board. I approach each decision with curiosity and an open mind, focused on following regulations carefully and making sure residents’ voices are heard. Many decisions are guided by clear rules, but I believe it’s important to keep asking how those rules best serve our community. My goal is to work collaboratively with the entire commission—respecting the experience of long-time members while offering a perspective grounded in fairness and responsiveness to residents.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
My role on the Planning and Zoning Commission is guided by local and state regulations. I believe strongly in preserving local control over land use decisions and keeping them in the hands of Cheshire residents. I’ll continue advocating for open, transparent processes that reflect our community’s long-term vision and protect the character and quality of life that make Cheshire such a special place to live.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
What guides me in this role is being a voice for residents—I listen carefully to concerns, ideas and feedback. I believe in a fair process based on current local and state regulations, and I value open, respectful conversations that help us move forward together. With over 30 years in the insurance industry, I bring strong skills in budgeting, problem-solving and long-term planning to serve our town’s future.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Always respond; never react

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I want voters to know that my time on the Planning and Zoning Commission, along with owning a small farm, gives me a real connection to our community and its needs. I listen carefully, communicate clearly and am committed to making thoughtful decisions that protect our town’s character while supporting responsible growth. I’m dedicated to working hard for the best interests of all residents and to keeping our community strong and vibrant.