Stratford Election 2025: John Zbell Running For Planning Commission

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

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

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

John Zbell is running for election to the Stratford Planning Commission as a Republican.

What office are you seeking?
Stratford Planning Commission – Districts 9 & 10

Occupation:

Environmental Consultant – 27 years

Family:
My wife Jennifer and I have been married for 22 years and have made Stratford our home ever since; daughter Madison, 20 – junior in college; son Connor, 16 – junior in high school

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
Stratford Architectural Review Board – 2018 to Present
Stratford Planning Commission – 2010 to 2013 (Served as Chairman from 2012 to 2013)

Why are you seeking this office?
After growing up in Trumbull, my wife and I decided we would begin our life together in Stratford; at the time it was what we could afford. After starting our family and now living in town for almost 23 years, Stratford has become our home. From my current involvement on the Architectural Review Board to my prior experience with the Planning Commission, I’ve come to understand the critical role town boards and commissions play in decision making. Recognizing previously undeveloped land is at a premium within our town, it is critical to strike a balance between conservation of our most valued resources and development that promotes responsible economic growth. If elected to the Planning Commission, I look forward to the opportunity to assist the town with navigating this challenge.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
Responsible development. While increased development helps generate additional taxes and ease the burden on individuals, this development needs to be done in a way that fits within the character of Stratford’s neighborhoods. By implementing and adhering to the strategies outlined in the 2022-2023 Plan of Conservation and Development, we can continue to grow our tax base while preserving our open spaces and natural resources that make Stratford a unique coastal community.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
As a former member and past Chairman of the Stratford Planning Commission, I’m familiar with the role and responsibilities required of the position and have experience working alongside town staff. I also have a unique understanding of the importance of the town’s Plan of Conservation and Development, having helped draft the previous version that was adopted in 2013.

During my career as an environmental consultant, I have come to recognize the importance of transforming previously developed, contaminated, and underutilized properties into catalysts for renewed economic growth. It is this type of redevelopment that will continue to move Stratford forward.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Maintaining neighborhood character. From Roosevelt Forest, Paradise Green, Stratford Center, Lordship, and the others in between, Stratford is a collection of neighborhoods, each defined by their unique character. It is essential to prohibit irresponsible development that will adversely alter this character and also protect and preserve the limited open spaces that remain.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
My prior experience on the Planning Commission, including two years as Chairman, at which time I helped draft the previous Plan of Conservation and Development. This experience has given me a unique understanding of how the Commission functions and the important role they play with regard to development, and more importantly the preservation of the town’s unique natural resources.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Life is what you make it.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
Stratford is the place I chose to start and raise my family. From the beautiful landscape of Roosevelt Forest to the calm serenity at Long Beach, Stratford is a gem along Connecticut’s coast. From my prior involvement in local youth sports and the Planning Commission to my continued participation on the Architectural Review Board, I’ve always been dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for those that call Stratford home.