By Andreas Yilma, Staff Writer
PROSPECT — Those who knew and worked alongside longtime Planning and Zoning Commission member Gregory Ploski described him as an independent thinker who spoke his mind and was always willing to lend a hand.
Ploski, 71, died June 3. He is survived by his wife, Linda, and son, Gary.
“He worked hard for planning and zoning and he was a man of his own mind. He was a unique character,” said Katie Blinstrubas, Democratic registrar of voters and Prospect Democratic Town Committee member, who added Ploski always made her laugh.
Ploski served on the Planning and Zoning Commission for 13 years and was a member of the Prospect Democratic Town Committee for more than 10 years. He was also involved in town organizations, including the Prospect Gun Club.
“He was a hometown boy and had Prospect at heart,” Mayor Robert Chatfield said.
Planning and Zoning Commission Chairman E. Gil Graveline said Ploski knew all about zoning and was very knowledgeable with the regulations.
“He was open-minded and had his own thoughts on how zoning could take place,” Graveline said.
Graveline added, “He was always involved with a lot of people. Always willing to help people and always wanted to help. He always had good advice for everyone”
Ploski, a U.S. Air Force veteran, was mechanically inclined. He formerly owned Dyno-Time Racing Engines of Prospect on Union City Road, a mechanical shop where workers tuned up race engines and tested cars and engines, Graveline said.
Ploski was also a certified flight instructor and taught aviation out of the Waterbury-Oxford Airport.
“He knew everything practical,” Graveline said. “He did all of the practical things.”
Theresa Graveline, a member of the Town Council and vice chairman of the Prospect Democratic Town Committee, said Ploski’s contribution to the town will be missed.
“He was outspoken, readily offering his own, honest opinion or unique perspective on issues, even when dissenting from the majority,” she said.
The Prospect Democratic Town Committee will nominate someone to fill the vacancy on the Planning and Zoning Commission, which will appoint the person to fill the remainder of Ploski’s term.
