Patch Candidate Profile: Robert DeWilder For Weston Planning & Zoning Commission

WESTON, 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:
Robert DeWilder

What office are you seeking?
Planning & Zoning Commission

What town do you live in?
Weston

Campaign Website

Party Affiliation:
Republican

Occupation:
Systems Architect 30 years

Family:
I moved to Weston in 2020 with my wife and 3 sons.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
No

Why are you seeking this office?
I decided to run as there was a need for someone to fill the position. I am not a fan of politics in general, but I recognize the influence it has on all our lives. This is part of my process of learning how the game is played. Government should work for the voters.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
For planning and zoning I believe the most pressing issue is keeping control of future development local. The development proposals for the Village District that have been put forward seem to be largely disliked by the community. I would like to look into what P&Z could do to help members within the community with ideas to see those come to fruition.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
The major difference is the other candidates are all incumbents. I hope to bring a fresh perspective to the board.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
25 years in the corporate world has given me the skills to work within a bureaucracy. I have architected and lead teams that build and operated numerous complex software systems in the areas of supply chain, decentralized networks, media among others. All these projects have required focused attention to details as well understanding of the high level strategic vision.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
The best managers work towards a goal of making themselves obsolete.