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Difficult and Nuanced Judgments

Last January I was appointed by the Town Council as an alternate member of the Clinton Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) to fill a vacancy and now seek election to this position.

I initially thought it might be a bit dry, although necessary work. I’ve since discovered this is a fascinating and challenging position. It involves real-life issues and requires some difficult and nuanced judgments to ensure the safety and welfare of the town and environment.

My wife Susan and I moved to Clinton 30 years ago and now live in a lovely 1860 house along the Indian River, so we care deeply for protection of the land and water. Communication is my strength. Professionally I am an award-winning designer and former art teacher, having worked with both international and local clients such as Yale and The Hartford Courant and proudly designed the Henry Carter Hull Library logo.

On Nov. 2, my name will appear on Ballot Line A as a member of the Democratic ticket alongside my esteemed colleagues on the ZBA Laurie Jaffe and Bertram Schmitz, who seek second terms.

I’ve witnessed Laurie’s exceptional abilities through our work together creating the Clinton Human Rights Committee. As a retired attorney, Laurie brings a detail-oriented critical mind to the ZBA.

Bertram and his late wife Beth first found Clinton in 1978 when he was a senior flight test engineer for Sikorsky. Retired after 35 years in engineering, law, and medicine, Bert used this opportunity to serve on the Inland Wetlands Commission. His knowledge and experience have made him invaluable to the ZBA.

I consider Laurie and Bert as important mentors in my understanding of what it means to be a board member and hope your readers will support our continuation serving on the ZBA.

Tom Shultz

Clinton

Democrat Tom Shultz is an appointed alternate member of the Zoning Board of Appeals seeking election to that seat in November.