To the Editor:

When Prerna Rao came to my door to introduce herself, I was immediately impressed with this attractive, articulate woman. She explained that she's running for a two-year term on the Zoning Board of Appeals.

For those of you who, like me, weren't clear about its function, the town website states that the ZBA "has the power to grant variances of Zoning Regulations when hardship is demonstrated due to.... the physical condition of the land, where application of zoning regulations would create exceptional hardship and deprive the owner of reasonable use of the land." The ZBA "also has the power to correct a decision by the Zoning Enforcement Officer when the board feels the officer has made an error."

Prerna explained that she's a lawyer whose practice includes land use and zoning. As an attorney, she's represented clients before zoning boards and zoning boards of appeal. She's well versed in the law and familiar with its application.

After she left, I checked out her website and learned that she's earned high accolades from those in her field. In 2017 she was selected for the Super Lawyers Rising Star Award as a top rated litigation attorney.

Three years ago, Prerna and her husband bought a house in Newtown. They love the community and are excited that their son will one day enter Newtown schools. I'm delighted that such a talented and well-qualified young woman is eager to serve Newtown. I urge you to vote for her on November 7.

Jan Brookes

38 Hundred Acres Road, Newtown         November 2, 2017