Patch Candidate Profile: Will Drew For Newtown P&Z Commission Alternate

NEWTOWN, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.

Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing their towns.

Candidate's Name:
Will Drew

What office are you seeking?
Planning and Zoning, Alternate

What town do you live in?
Newtown, CT

Party Affiliation:
Unaffiliated

Occupation:
Physical Therapist, 13 years

Family:
I have a wonderful family that brings me joy every day. My wife, Stacey, our five year old son and our 11 year old yellow lab named Baxter

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
No

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
I currently serve on the Newtown Conservation Commission.

Why are you seeking this office?
I am seeking a seat on the Planning and Zoning Commission because I believe it is extremely important for members of a town to be involved in planning and participating in its growth and sustainability. My own deep commitment to Newtown stems from my desire to spend at least the next two decades here, and I want to be an active part of shaping its future. I will leverage my ability to hear all perspectives and skillfully work toward unified solutions. This, combined with my energetic commitment, means I'm prepared to effectively manage the goals of preserving Newtown's unique charm and strategically maximizing our town's potential.

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 political polarization, where divided opinions and stalled compromises routinely prevent us from moving forward on important town matters.

This is what I intend to do about it. My leadership style focuses on bringing people together. I will apply my skills by creating an atmosphere on the Commission where all viewpoints are heard and respected. By fostering collaboration and keeping the needs of Newtown at the forefront, I will help the Commission and the community work together to find common ground and make thoughtful decisions. These will be decisions that ensure fiscal health for the town, while managing necessary growth in a way that safeguards the quaint New England town feel that makes Newtown special.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
The major difference between me and the other candidates is the forward-looking vision and essential diversification of perspective I bring to the Planning and Zoning Commission. While the other candidates consistently emphasize their longevity in town, suggesting our focus should primarily look backward, I represent the vital, under-40 demographic—a parent of young children who has a deep, vested interest in Newtown’s next twenty, thirty, even forty years. For voters interested in maintaining this wonderful town long-term, it is time to begin passing the torch down and voting in younger people like me. I will use this opportunity to gain valuable insight by observing and learning from those who have served before, allowing the Commission to make thoughtful, fiscally sound decisions that balance sustainable growth with the preservation of our essential character for the generations to come.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Beyond the core duties of the Planning and Zoning Commission, a significant issue I intend to address is motivating broader engagement in town government. Currently, representation across our boards and commissions is heavily weighted toward long-term residents, many of whom are late in their careers or retired. My goal in volunteering is to bring excitement and vital engagement from a younger demographic. It is critical that we begin planning now for what is ten or twenty years ahead, otherwise we risk being caught unprepared by inevitable change. The time to start sparking interest from the next generation of leadership is now. My service is about more than just development; I will actively work to boost civic engagement and diversity, which is just as essential for Newtown's long-term sustainability.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I cite a proven track record of strategic planning, financial acumen, and effective community advocacy as evidence I can handle this job. I successfully built a business recognized as a top 50 fastest-growing business among Syracuse University alumni, demonstrating my ability to navigate complex growth. Locally, I've delivered results through direct action. I was instrumental in advocacy for 6 Commerce Road, helped ensure proper governance during the Reservoir Road moratorium discussion, and played a key role in successful Newtown Open Space acquisitions.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Always return your shopping cart when you're done with it. Don't be lazy and leave it half on the curb. How you do anything is how you do everything.