This is for Saturday paper, apparently. MaryD

Wilton planners discuss membership

WILTON – Planning Board Chairman Russell Black asked fellow members Thursday whether they should ask Keith Swett to return to the board. Swett’s term expires June 30.

Swett said during a selectmen’s meeting this week that he is reluctant to serve because he is also a selectman and some residents wondered whether that is appropriate.

Swett was not at Thursday’s meeting.

Norm Gould also serves on both boards.

Black was elected a selectman this week as well. He said he would like to resign from the Planning Board as soon as possible because that’s what he said he would do if elected selectman. He said that while it is unacceptable for three selectmen to serve on both boards because it constitutes a quorum, he does not see an issue with two people on both boards.

Planners would like to see Swett come back, if he is willing, because the board will be experiencing an influx of new members soon. Swett has served on the Planning Board for the past six years. He was elected selectman last year.

“Keith is a great resource. He does a good job, and he does his homework,” planner Bryce Weeks said.

The plan is for Mike Sherrod, whose term is also expiring, to stay another term, bring Swett back to the board, and move alternate Sheryl Mosher up to a full-time member. That would leave one full-time and one alternate spot open. Town officials already have applicants for those positions.

Planner Bernal Lake resigned this week for health reasons, and planners said member Ted Keiler is also expected to leave soon because he is planning a change of residence. Planners will contact Swett to see if he would like to return.

Selectmen tabled the appointment of Planning Board members this week. They are awaiting recommendations of the Planning Board and will discuss the issue at their next meeting July 6.

Planners intend to hold the election of officers at their next meeting July 1.

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