The views stated here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors of this newspaper. We welcome supporting or opposing views on any published item. Received September 1, 2023.
My name is Ben Charney and I’m seeking election to Killingworth’s Zoning Board of Appeals. For those unfamiliar with the ZBA, our purpose is to review applications for variances to Killingworth’s zoning rules. In a historic town with beautiful wetlands, narrow roads, and evolving needs of residents, we serve a vital function in support of our community.
Volunteerism is at the heart of what it means to live in town and it is what compelled me to run for the Killingworth ZBA in 2017. Serving on the ZBA has given me the opportunity to give back to this amazing community while leveraging my own expertise. Currently, I serve as an alternate member, but the small size of the committee has afforded the opportunity to serve as a voting member on nearly every item before the Board in the past five years. I now seek election as a full member of the ZBA in 2023.
As we look toward the future, some of the most important issues facing our town involve balancing the changing housing requirements and needs of residents while continuing our town’s strong track record of keeping taxes low and preserving what we all love about Killingworth.
The ZBA is instrumental in addressing these issues by working with residents who come before the Board in finding creative solutions to meet the individual housing needs of growing families, long-time residents who wish to stay in town, and the increased number of residents working or operating a business from home.
I would appreciate your vote on November 7, 2023.
Ben Charney, Killingworth
