At the 2025 Municipal Election candidate debate for Planning and Zoning. (L-R) Candidates Margit Ritz (D), Jessica Rainey (D), Colin Christ (R), Trevor Huffard (D), Ken Hoffman (D) and Michelle Saglimbene (D). At far right is League of Women Voters moderator Kay Maxwell. Credit: Justin Baiad Photography

If you missed last night’s live debate between Planning and Zoning Commission candidates, no worries! We’ve got everything you need to hear what the candidates had to say. Below you can choose what you want to watch — the whole debate or individual questions.

The debate was hosted by the Wilton League of Women Voters, Wilton Library and GOOD Morning Wilton. Candidates for the Planning and Zoning Commission who appeared at the debate are Margit Ritz (D), Jessica Rainey (D), Colin Christ (R), Trevor Huffard (D), Ken Hoffman (D) and Michelle Saglimbene (D). Jill Warren (R) was on her honeymoon and unable to attend; Jed Englund (R) canceled shortly before the debate began. There are five open seats.

Check out all of GOOD Morning Wilton‘s coverage of Election 2025 debates: 

Full Debate

Question 1: Where are the P&Z traffic and parking studies of Wilton, Rte. 7 and Wilton Center? Each developer is responsible for its own traffic study outlining vehicle entrances and exits of the apartment complex. Will the public be informed of these plans?

Question 2: The Hines/School Sisters of Notre Dame pre-application for development of 280 units at 345 Belden Hill will mean a change in Wilton’s zoning regulations, not just a variance. Hines acknowledges that their proposed use is not currently allowed. So what is your position on changing Wilton’s zoning regulations at the request of developers?

Question 3: Every new development should require adequate parking. Should the regulations of Planning and Zoning provide additional parking considering future development in Wilton Center?

Question 4: Wilton remains below the 10% affordable housing threshold. What proactive steps will you take to add diverse housing and avoid another 8-30g project? 

Question 5: How would the town reduce the tax burden on homeowners relative to commercial properties?

Question 6: Now that five-story buildings are permitted and flood-zone developments have been approved, what specific actions will you take to protect Wilton’s remaining natural and visual character and ensure that future development balances affordability [and] accessibility?

Question 7: Will you consider wheel stops/barriers to be installed in parking areas such as Stop & Shop, to avoid accidents? [Vehicular/Pedestrian Safety in Wilton]

Question 8: Could areas near the Wilton train station be further developed to provide more affordable housing?

Closing Statements