Politics & Government

About the Candidate: John Brockelman

Zoning Board of Appeals candidate wants to give back to community.

Name: John Brockelman

Party: Republican 

Position Seeking: Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate

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Family information: I live on Juniper Dr. with my wife Mearle, our daughter Megan who is a Junior at FHS, our son Jack who is a freshman at FHS and our dogs Toby and Chelsea.

Occupation, if applicable: Sales Manager for Ames True Temper, a manufacturer of Lawn, Garden, and Construction Tools based out of Harrisburg, PA

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Political Experience: None. My job previously kept me on the road quite a bit so my free time was spent with my kids and their sporting events.

Why are you running for office?  I feel we all need to do something to give back to our community whether it is serving on a town board or assist in coaching a youth sports team.  I helped coach previously, but now my children are both in High School.

If elected, what would be your primary areas of focus?  The Zoning Board of Appeals is primarily responsible for acting on requests for variances from the terms of the Zoning Regulations where a strict interpretation of the regulations would result in unnecessary hardship for a property owner.  I realize there are circumstances where the rules need to be modified.  I intend to listen to every appeal, take into account any neighbor’s concerns, and rule in a way that benefits the community in the best possible way.

What issues or opportunities is the town facing today?  We are facing the same issues as other towns in the Farmington Valley.  We need to maintain our low taxes and balance that with the increased costs of keeping our strong education system and great town services.  To do this we need to increase our commercial tax base, but do it in a smart way that does not infringe on our neighborhoods and sense of community.

How would you propose to address them?  The Zoning Board of Appeals does not have a say in spending or in our schools.  I will continue to support smart economic development in commercial areas that will help to keep our taxes low.

Anything else you would like to share?  I moved here 17 years ago because of the low taxes, outstanding education system, and great sense of community.  We need to keep that for future generations.  If you don’t know me I am usually the guy walking around sporting events with my chocolate Lab Chelsea.


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