Planning & Zoning Commission - 2025 Candidate Comparison

Election Date: November 4, 2025

Seats Available: 3 (four-year terms)

Vote for: Up to three candidates

Term Length: 4 years

Position Overview

The Planning & Zoning Commission shapes Weston's future through land use regulation, development review, and long-term planning. This commission reviews development applications, updates zoning regulations, creates the town's Plan of Conservation and Development, and balances property rights with community character. Decisions affect property values, town character, infrastructure, and quality of life.

Key Responsibilities:

• Review and approve/deny development applications
• Update and administer zoning regulations
• Create and maintain Plan of Conservation and Development
• Conduct public hearings on zoning matters
• Protect Weston's character while allowing appropriate development
• Review subdivision proposals
• Make recommendations on municipal property decisions (8-24 referrals)

How to Vote

Vote for UP TO THREE candidates for four-year terms. Three seats are available.

Candidate Summary Table

Detailed Candidate Comparisons

Professional Background

Megan Loucas (Democratic - Incumbent):

• Licensed Architect (AIA) with 14+ years experience
• Director of Design & Owner - Trillium Architects Co-operative (since 2019, became owner 2024)
• Specializations:
  • Sustainable and energy-efficient design
  • Passive House design and construction
  • LEED, Net Zero, and Passive House certifications
  • Historic preservation (Richard Neutra renovations)
• Notable Projects:
  • Passive House Gut Renovation (Fine Home Building house of 2020)
  • Vince stores (Westport CT, NYC)
  • Commercial yoga and retail studio (Ridgefield)
  • Ground-up single-family residences across US and Canada
• Professional Memberships: American Institute of Architects (AIA), Northeast Sustainable Energy Association (NESEA)
• Background: Colorado native, relocated from Los Angeles to Weston 2016
• Education: Master of Architecture (UCLA 2009), BA in Film and Television (Northwestern)
• Personal: Married, two daughters, renovated own Weston home

Sally Stires-Korsh (Democratic - Incumbent, Chair):

• Attorney specializing in real estate and land use law
• Serves domestic and international clients on real estate and land use issues
• Possible additional background in architecture, planning, and environmental design (requires verification)
• 12+ years Planning & Zoning Commission service (2013-present)
• Commission Chair since January 2022 (3+ years)
• Experience: Led commission through complex development applications, affordable housing reviews, zoning regulation updates
• Approach: Legally rigorous, process-oriented, emphasis on statutory compliance
• Notable Actions:
  • Questioned affordable housing application compliance with 8-30g statute
  • Led commission through Village District regulation updates
  • Managed public hearings on detached apartments and other major proposals

Robert DeWilder (Republican - Challenger):

• Technology Executive with 20+ years experience in IT leadership
• Education: BS in Computer Science - University of Southern California (1993-1997)
• Career Progression:
  • Current: Global Director of Information Technology - Sony Music Entertainment
  • Previous Roles:
    • Chief Technology Officer - Worbli (blockchain fintech, now UXnetwork)
    • Technical Lead - GenerEOS (EOSIO blockchain technology)
    • Unix System Administrator - USC Information Technology Services
  • Technical Evolution: From systems administration → technical leadership → executive management
  • Leadership Scope: Global IT operations, strategic technology planning, large-scale implementations
• Business Ownership: Sonic Dewilder LLC (Weston, CT) with wife Trudi DeWilder (also Sony Music employee)
• Weston Tenure: Property owner since 2020 (5 years)
• Residence: 22 Lakeside Drive with wife Trudi
• First-time candidate for elected office in Weston
• No prior town board/commission service documented

Relevant Experience for Planning & Zoning

Megan Loucas:

• 14+ years professional experience working with zoning regulations across multiple jurisdictions
• Multi-state perspective: Has interacted with zoning boards throughout United States
• Current P&Z Service: Elected 2021, participating in commission decisions for 4 years
• Previous Weston service:
  • Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate (2019-2021)
  • Building Committee (2021)
• Technical Expertise:
  • Deep understanding of building codes and regulations
  • Knowledge of sustainable development practices
  • Experience with how zoning affects actual construction
  • Historic preservation and adaptive reuse
• Applicant Perspective: Brings hands-on experience with zoning processes from architect viewpoint

Sally Stires-Korsh:

• 12+ years Planning & Zoning Commission (2013-present)
• Commission Chair since 2022 (3+ years of leadership)
• Professional legal expertise in real estate and land use law
• Deep institutional knowledge of Weston's planning framework
• Major Commission Work:
  • Village District regulation amendments (2025)
  • Affordable housing applications under 8-30g
  • Weston Inn development oversight
  • Accessory dwelling unit regulations
  • Town Plan adoption (2020)
  • Special permit applications and zoning modifications
• Legal rigor: Consistently seeks proper authority and precedent for decisions
• Community engagement: "Speak Up" forums, public hearings

Robert DeWilder:

• 20+ years strategic planning and executive leadership in global IT operations
• Translatable Skills to Planning & Zoning:
  • Project Management: Experience managing large-scale technology implementations with budgets, timelines, stakeholders
  • Strategic Planning: Long-term technology roadmaps and infrastructure planning
  • Systems Thinking: Understanding complex interconnected systems and downstream impacts
  • Data Analysis: Technical background analyzing complex information and making evidence-based decisions
  • Vendor Management: Evaluating proposals, contracts, and technical compliance
  • Risk Assessment: Identifying potential issues in complex technical projects
• Technology Perspective for Modern Planning:
  • Understanding infrastructure needs (broadband, smart systems, digital services)
  • Experience with technology impact on residential and commercial development
  • Knowledge of modern building systems and connectivity requirements
• Business Ownership: Experience as small business owner in Weston
• Weston Property Owner: 5 years as homeowner (since 2020) invested in community
• Limitations:
  • No documented land use or zoning experience
  • No prior municipal board service
  • Limited public information on specific vision for Weston planning and zoning
  • No background in real estate law, architecture, or development

Campaign Platforms & Policy Positions

Megan Loucas (2025): While specific 2025 platform not yet published, record and expertise suggest:

• Technical expertise: Bringing professional architectural knowledge to decisions
• Sustainable development: Promoting environmentally-conscious building
• Community character: Balancing growth with preservation of Weston's unique identity
• Practical implementation: Understanding real-world implications of regulations
• Transparent process: Continuing commission's public engagement
• Multi-jurisdictional perspective: Bringing best practices from other communities

2021 Statement: "Hopes to further serve the community as a Planning and Zoning commission member and help shape and build the future of the town."

Sally Stires-Korsh: Based on 12 years of commission service and leadership:

• Legal rigor: Ensuring actions comply with state statutes and local regulations
• Technical scrutiny: Examining proposals for compliance with technical requirements
• Process-oriented: Emphasizing proper procedure and documentation
• Affordable housing: Attention to statutory compliance with state requirements
• Development review: Methodical approach to residential and commercial projects
• Zoning updates: Leading regulation reviews and updates

April 2024 affordable housing hearing: Questioned whether one affordable unit out of four meets 8-30g requirement (30%), requested "citation of law or precedent" for separating developments, identified technical septic system issues.

Robert DeWilder:

• No public policy statements available
• No published campaign platform
• No documented positions on:
  • Development and conservation balance
  • Zoning regulation philosophy
  • Affordable housing approach
  • Village center development
  • Environmental protection
  • Historic preservation
  • Infrastructure planning

Community Involvement

Megan Loucas:

• Weston resident since 2016 (9 years)
• 6+ years municipal board service:
  • Planning & Zoning Commission (2021-present)
  • Building Committee (2021)
  • Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate (2019-2021)
• Personal investment: Renovated family home in Weston
• Active parent: Two daughters in Weston schools
• Personal interests: Building furniture, running in Weston
• Professional community: Director/owner at Trillium Architects (Ridgefield)

Sally Stires-Korsh:

• Long-term Weston resident
• 12+ years Planning & Zoning service (2013-present)
• Leadership: Commission Chair since 2022
• Community forums: Participated in "Speak Up" programs (2023)
• Public hearings: Led numerous hearings on development proposals
• Extensive town knowledge: Deep familiarity with Weston's planning history

Robert DeWilder:

• Weston resident since 2020 (5 years)
• Property owner: 22 Lakeside Drive
• Business owner: Sonic Dewilder LLC in Weston
• First-time candidate: No prior board/commission service documented
• Limited documented civic involvement

Key Differences

Professional Expertise

• Loucas: Licensed architect with technical building/design expertise
• Stires-Korsh: Attorney with legal real estate and land use specialization
• DeWilder: Technology executive with 20+ years IT leadership and strategic planning background

P&Z Experience

• Loucas: 4 years as commission member (2021-2025)
• Stires-Korsh: 12+ years as member, 3+ years as Chair
• DeWilder: No prior P&Z or land use board experience

Weston Tenure

• Loucas: 9 years (since 2016)
• Stires-Korsh: Long-term resident (duration not precisely specified)
• DeWilder: 5 years (since 2020)

Municipal Service

• Loucas: 6+ years across multiple boards (ZBA Alternate, Building Committee, P&Z)
• Stires-Korsh: 12+ years dedicated P&Z service
• DeWilder: First-time candidate, no prior board service

Approach to Zoning

• Loucas: Technical/practical - understanding how regulations affect actual building
• Stires-Korsh: Legal/procedural - ensuring compliance with statutes and proper process
• DeWilder: Unknown (no public statements) - likely analytical/systems-based given technology background

Key Similarities

Professional Success

• All three candidates have achieved success in their respective professional fields
• All bring analytical thinking and strategic planning skills
• All have experience managing complex projects

Weston Investment

• All are property owners in Weston
• All have chosen Weston as their home community
• All seeking to contribute to town's future

Commitment to Service (Incumbents)

• Both Loucas and Stires-Korsh have demonstrated sustained commitment through years of service
• Both seeking re-election based on records of service

Race Dynamics & Strategic Considerations

Two Incumbents + One Challenger

Key Dynamic: Two Democratic incumbents with records vs. one Republican newcomer

Voter Scenarios:

Scenario 1: Vote for Both Incumbents

• Loucas + Stires-Korsh = Continuity, complementary expertise (architect + attorney)
• Leaves one seat open for other voters to determine
• Ensures experienced leadership continues

Scenario 2: Vote for Two Democrats + Republican

• Loucas + Stires-Korsh + DeWilder = Partisan balance, diverse perspectives
• Requires voting for all three candidates
• Mixes experience with fresh viewpoint

Scenario 3: Vote for One Incumbent + Challenger

• Various combinations possible
• Changes commission dynamics
• Introduces fresh perspective while maintaining some continuity

Scenario 4: Vote for Challenger Only

• DeWilder alone
• Signals desire for significant change
• Leaves two seats to other voters

Complementary Expertise (Both Democrats)

Loucas + Stires-Korsh together provide:

• Technical + Legal expertise
• Architecture + Real Estate Law
• Practical building knowledge + Regulatory compliance
• Sustainable design + Property rights law
• 4 years experience + 12 years experience

This combination covers comprehensive land use planning needs.

Experience vs. Fresh Perspective

• Incumbents: Proven track record, institutional knowledge, established relationships, directly relevant expertise (architecture + law)
• DeWilder: Outsider perspective, technology/business background, 20+ years executive leadership, potential for innovation, modern infrastructure perspective
• Question: Is continuity with specialized expertise or change with transferable skills more important for P&Z now?

Critical Questions for Voters

About Incumbents

1. Have Loucas and Stires-Korsh served effectively over their tenures?
2. Is their complementary expertise (architect + attorney) valuable for the commission?
3. Does Stires-Korsh's 12 years represent experience or "time for change"?
4. Has Loucas proven herself worthy of re-election after one term?

About Robert DeWilder

5. What is DeWilder's vision for Weston planning and zoning?
6. How does 20+ years of technology leadership translate to land use decisions?
7. Does his strategic planning and project management experience from global IT operations apply to local zoning?
8. Would his technology perspective on infrastructure (broadband, smart systems) add value?
9. Is lack of prior board experience a concern or an advantage?
10. Why has he chosen to run without publishing policy positions?

About Commission Needs

11. Is architectural expertise essential for P&Z? (Loucas is only licensed architect)
12. Is legal expertise critical for compliance and process? (Stires-Korsh)
13. Would technology perspective add value for infrastructure planning? (DeWilder)
14. Does project management and strategic planning experience translate to land use decisions?
15. What expertise mix best serves Weston's planning needs?

About Specific Issues

16. How should Weston balance development with character preservation?
17. What is appropriate approach to affordable housing requirements?
18. How should village center evolve?
19. What role should sustainability play in zoning decisions?
20. How should modern infrastructure needs (broadband, technology) factor into planning?
21. How can commission improve public engagement and transparency?

About Voting Strategy

22. Should you vote for partisan balance or expertise?
23. Is it better to vote for complementary skills (both Democrats) or introduce fresh perspective?
24. Should you vote for all three seats or focus on priority candidates?

Recent P&Z Commission Actions (2021-2025)

Understanding recent work helps evaluate incumbent performance:

Major Decisions & Projects

• Village District Amendments (2025): Approved amendments 6-1
• Ancillary Kitchen Use (2025): Emmanuel Episcopal Church rental permissions
• Detached Apartments (2021-2022): Hearings on accessory dwelling units
• 190 Weston Road: Shopping center modifications
• 48 Norfield Road: DIG USA development
• 285 Lyons Plain Road: Emmanuel Church special permits
• Municipal Referrals: Cell tower leases, town property sales

Regulatory Work

• Village District regulation updates
• Accessory dwelling unit regulations
• Zoning modification hearings
• Special permit applications

Both incumbents participated in these decisions, providing track record for evaluation.

Information Gaps & Recommendations

Robert DeWilder Critical Information Needs

Voters should seek:

1. Policy positions on key planning and zoning issues
2. Vision for Weston's development and land use
3. Approach to balancing property rights with community planning
4. Understanding of P&Z responsibilities and Connecticut planning law
5. Time commitment capacity given technology career demands
6. Specific qualifications beyond strategic planning skills
7. Why running and what he hopes to accomplish

Where to Find Information

• Candidate Forums: League of Women Voters
• Party Websites:
  • Weston Democrats: weston-democrats.org
  • Weston Republicans: westonrtc.org
• Town Meetings: Attend P&Z meetings to understand commission work
• Direct Contact: Reach out through party organizations

Resources

Full Candidate Profiles

• Megan Loucas: View Profile
• Sally Stires-Korsh: View Profile
• Robert DeWilder: View Profile

Contact Information

Megan Loucas:

• Commission Email: mloucas@westonct.gov
• Professional: Trillium Architects, 409 Main St Suite 14, Ridgefield, CT 06877, (203) 438-4540
• Website: trilliumarchitects.com

Sally Stires-Korsh:

• Commission Email: skorsh@westonct.gov

Robert DeWilder:

• Residence: 22 Lakeside Drive, Weston
• Contact: Weston Republican Town Committee (westonrtc.org)

Planning & Zoning Commission

• Website: westonct.gov - Planning & Zoning
• Meetings: First Monday of each month, 7:30 PM
• Location: Weston Town Hall Annex, 24 School Road
• Meeting Minutes: Available on town website

Additional Resources

• Town Plan of Conservation and Development: Available on town website
• Zoning Regulations: westonct.gov
• Development Applications: Public files at P&Z office
• League of Women Voters: Non-partisan information

Voting Information

• Election Day: November 4, 2025
• Early Voting: October 20 - November 2, 2025
• Sample Ballot: westonct.gov and Town Clerk's office

Last Updated: October 15, 2025

Sources:

• Candidate LinkedIn profiles and professional websites
• Weston CT town website (committee information)
• Planning & Zoning Commission meeting minutes (2021-2025)
• Property records (Weston Assessor's database)
• Professional licensing databases
• Campaign materials and party websites

Important Notes:

For Robert DeWilder: This comparison notes significant information gaps regarding policy positions, land use philosophy, and specific vision for Weston planning and zoning. While his professional background in technology leadership (20+ years) demonstrates strong strategic planning, project management, and systems thinking skills, the direct applicability to land use decisions remains unclear without published policy positions. Voters seeking to evaluate his candidacy should attend forums and request detailed information through the Republican Town Committee.

For All Voters: Planning & Zoning Commission decisions shape Weston's future for generations. Consider:

1. Which expertise mix best serves the commission's technical and legal needs
2. Whether directly relevant expertise (architecture + law) or transferable skills (technology leadership + project management) is more valuable
3. Whether continuity or change is more important at this time
4. How your voting strategy (all three, two, or one candidate) affects commission composition
5. Balance between experience and fresh perspectives

Key Consideration: With three seats and three candidates (2D, 1R), your vote significantly impacts commission composition. The two Democratic incumbents offer complementary technical and legal expertise (architecture + real estate law) with track records on P&Z. The Republican challenger offers 20+ years of technology executive leadership, strategic planning experience, and a modern infrastructure perspective, but no direct land use experience or published policy positions. Choose the combination that best aligns with your vision for Weston's land use planning.