This Issue Proves Why Wellington Needs Resident-Driven Leadership
What Happened
Connell wanted to build an industrial asphalt plant near homes in our town. Our zoning code clearly requires any heavy industrial use "producing toxic chemicals" to be at least 2,640 feet from residential neighborhoods.
Connell admitted their plant would emit toxic chemicals—but requested an exception because the toxins were "byproducts" at "trace levels."
What Concerned Me: A Breakdown in Independent Judgment
I watched as town staff recommended approval based on Connell's interpretation of the code.. That's their job—to provide recommendations.
But here's what troubled me: Some of our elected leaders, two of whom are candidates in this election, didn't provide the independent oversight residents count on.
They didn't:
Instead, they accepted staff's recommendation at face value and voted accordingly.
Residents had to hire lawyers and take the issue to court. The Court ruled in favor of the residents, finding the code meant exactly what it said—no exceptions, no reinterpretations.
This Is Why I'm Running for Mayor
This situation showed me that Wellington needs stronger leadership that provides clear direction and independent thinking.
Staff work hard and provide valuable expertise—that's important. But elected officials must lead, not just defer. That's especially true for the mayor, who sets the tone for how the board approaches decisions.
The code wasn't ambiguous. It said industrial uses "producing toxic chemicals" must stay 2,640 feet from homes. It deserved a careful read and thoughtful questions.
The Leadership I'll Provide as Mayor
✅ Read the documents—Understand issues firsthand, not just through summaries
✅ Ask the hard questions—Respectfully challenge recommendations when something doesn't add up
✅ Put residents first—Ensure resident concerns get full consideration before votes are cast
✅ Lead with independence—Work collaboratively with staff while providing clear direction based on what's best for Wellington
Staff expertise is valuable. But elected leadership must think independently and guide decisions based on resident priorities.
The Bottom Line
Residents were right. The Court confirmed it. But it never should have gotten that far.
Wellington needs a mayor who will provide independent leadership, ask tough questions, and ensure decisions truly serve residents' best interests.
That's the kind of mayor I'll be.
Connell wanted to build an industrial asphalt plant near homes in our town. Our zoning code clearly requires any heavy industrial use "producing toxic chemicals" to be at least 2,640 feet from residential neighborhoods.
Connell admitted their plant would emit toxic chemicals—but requested an exception because the toxins were "byproducts" at "trace levels."
What Concerned Me: A Breakdown in Independent Judgment
I watched as town staff recommended approval based on Connell's interpretation of the code.. That's their job—to provide recommendations.
But here's what troubled me: Some of our elected leaders, two of whom are candidates in this election, didn't provide the independent oversight residents count on.
They didn't:
- Ask probing questions about the interpretation
- Challenge the recommendation on behalf of residents
- Exercise independent judgment
Instead, they accepted staff's recommendation at face value and voted accordingly.
Residents had to hire lawyers and take the issue to court. The Court ruled in favor of the residents, finding the code meant exactly what it said—no exceptions, no reinterpretations.
This Is Why I'm Running for Mayor
This situation showed me that Wellington needs stronger leadership that provides clear direction and independent thinking.
Staff work hard and provide valuable expertise—that's important. But elected officials must lead, not just defer. That's especially true for the mayor, who sets the tone for how the board approaches decisions.
The code wasn't ambiguous. It said industrial uses "producing toxic chemicals" must stay 2,640 feet from homes. It deserved a careful read and thoughtful questions.
The Leadership I'll Provide as Mayor
✅ Read the documents—Understand issues firsthand, not just through summaries
✅ Ask the hard questions—Respectfully challenge recommendations when something doesn't add up
✅ Put residents first—Ensure resident concerns get full consideration before votes are cast
✅ Lead with independence—Work collaboratively with staff while providing clear direction based on what's best for Wellington
Staff expertise is valuable. But elected leadership must think independently and guide decisions based on resident priorities.
The Bottom Line
Residents were right. The Court confirmed it. But it never should have gotten that far.
Wellington needs a mayor who will provide independent leadership, ask tough questions, and ensure decisions truly serve residents' best interests.
That's the kind of mayor I'll be.