Ridgefield Election 2021 Profile: Terry Bearden-Rettger

Ridgefield CT

09 October, 2021

8:09 AM

Description

RIDGEFIELD, CT — The state Municipal Election is Tuesday, Nov. 2. Patch contacted candidates to answer questions about their campaigns. Democrat Terry Bearden-Rettger, 66, is running for Zoning Board of Appeals in Ridgefield. Occupation: Book Seller, Books On The Common; Retired Speech And Language Pathologist Family: Husband: Mike Rettger Children: Sarah Stephen Brian Experience: Currently a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals Family in government: My husband Mike is on the Board of Finance and is also running for re-election this year The single biggest issue in town is ______, and I plan to do this about it: From a Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) perspective, the single most pressing issue facing our town is the need to maintain Ridgefield's character and charm while still making its homes safe, maintainable, and livable for the 21st century. To accomplish this from a position on the ZBA, I will stay informed about and act in compliance with of our zoning Regulations, and while maintaining the flexibility to allow for variances that will keep our older homes livable. Critical differences between me and my opponents: My uniqueness on the ZBA is my background as an outdoor educator, conservation commission ranger, master gardener, and beekeeper. These skills and interests help me to look at the environmental impacts of each variance request brought before the ZBA. Accomplishments: I bring to this election 4 years of experience on the ZBA. Over this time, I have studied our zoning regulations, taken land use classes offered by the State of Connecticut, and thoroughly prepared for each variance brought before our board. My voting record on the ZBA shows that I will support what I believe to be the correct decision even when my opinion is not in the majority. Other issues: On the ZBA it is important to treat each applicant individually and fairly and as their requests for a variance is important to them. When making our decisions on the ZBA it is also important that we protect Ridgefield's open spaces from development encroachment. What else would you like voters to know about you? I am a 29-year resident of Ridgefield and would like to do my part as a member of the ZBA to help Ridgefield keep itself as a vibrant and attractive community while also maintaining its unique New England charm. For more information on my background and positions and please go to our ZBA candidate information page on the DTC website.