Town Planner

The Town Planner administers the land use development application review process; prepares strategic and long-range plans; manages the town’s farmers market and farmland preservation program; assists with municipal grant opportunities; administers the town’s geographic information system (GIS); serves as Zoning and Wetlands Enforcement Officer; and provides staffing for the Planning and Zoning Commission, Inland Wetlands Commission, Economic Development Commission, and Conservation and Agriculture Commission.

The Town Planner is responsible for current and long-range land use planning activities, and acts as the inter-board liaison on land use matters. The position provides technical assistance, coordinates, and advises Town boards and departments on issues relating to land use regulations and permitting, municipal planning, open space preservation, and economic development.

The Town Planner interprets and administers zoning, subdivision, inland wetlands, and other land use regulations in reviewing community development plans and applications, and ensures that development is in compliance with regulations. The position is also responsible for GIS operations.

Lebanon Town Planner Philip Chester is a graduate of the Boston Architectural Center and the University of Massachusetts with professional degrees in both architecture and planning, and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and the Connecticut Association of Zoning Enforcement Officials (CAZEO). In 2011, Mr. Chester was awarded “Outstanding Small Town or Rural Planner” by the Small Town and Rural Planning Division of the American Planning Association.

In 2015, Lebanon was awarded Community of the Year by the CT Chapter of the American Planning Association “in recognition of its on-going efforts to preserve its agricultural-based economy and town character”.

Staff Contacts

Name Title
Philip Chester Town Planner