Zoning Board of Appeals

Zoning Board of Appeals is a Commission that has the power to grant variances of the Zoning Regulations when hardship is demonstrated due to topography, irregular shape of lots and any other physical condition where the application of zoning regulations would create exceptional hardship and deprive the owner of the property reasonable use of the land or building involved.

The Zoning Board of Appeals also has the power to correct a decision of a Zoning Enforcement Officer when the board feels the Zoning Officer has made an error.

Jane Sharp

Newtown is a wonderful place to live. Taxes are one of our town’s biggest challenges. The Zoning Board of Appeals doesn’t particularly impact taxes, but is a factor in Newtown’s development. ZBA members care about the people in this town. We visit business, residential and construction sites and, at hearings, work hard to listen and assist, when hardships impact common sense growth and development.

Rachel Rowan

Zoning Board of Appeals

I will work to be responsive to the needs of Newtown’s residents and businesses preserving the character of our town. As a lifelong resident of Sandy Hook, I believe my critical thinking, analytic and problem-solving skills can contribute to our town’s development. Working together to take collective action and generate solutions to problems improves the lives of our residents and ensures we are attracting and keeping talent. I will be a new dynamic voice for Newtown planning for the town’s future in a strategic way, encouraging desirable economic growth and initiating better engagement in town matters.

Tiffany Hawley

Alternate Member

The ‘DO’ matters, not just talking about wanting to be an active member of the community, but DOING it.

I want to be an example to my daughter, demonstrate the merit of being involved in our community. To make a difference in the community.

Planning and Zoning should help retain the small town feel while encouraging responsible development of the land and careful consideration to the community and environment.

Fairly enforcing the rules and regulations that help keep balance on a local level. When there’s more awareness, there’s more accountability.

David Landau

Alternate Member

I have lived in Newtown for 21 years, with my wife Jen of 28 years. Our two sons are both homeowners in town and are graduates of Newtown High School.

I run a successful Real Estate business with Jen, and my real estate knowledge provides me the ideal experience needed for the Zoning Board of Appeals. I also spent 30+ years in the automotive industry working on problem solving, technical issues and customer service.

Newtown has been a great place to live and raise our children, and I am proud to serve as a member of the Newtown Lions Club. I have also served two years as the President of the Newtown Board of Realtors, 2 years as their Vice President and currently a board member. I also serve on the Connecticut Association of Realtors as a board member, and have had positions on the Legislative, Nominating and Strategic Planning Committee's.