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Killingworth planning staff warns applicants about fraudulent invoices tied to public agendas
Summary
Commissioners warned applicants that fraudulent invoices are circulating after agendas become public; staff told residents the town does not accept credit cards or wire transfers and advised applicants to contact the planning office if they receive suspicious billing requests.
Members of the Killingworth Planning and Zoning Commission warned applicants on Nov. 18 about a wave of fraudulent invoice solicitations targeting people whose applications appear on public agendas.
Commissioners reported that applicants in multiple Connecticut towns received unsolicited invoices requesting additional fees after agendas were published. A commissioner said the scams can appear to come from planning or building departments and may ask for payment by credit card or wire transfer. "We don't do credit cards. We definitely don't do wire transfers," a staff member said, advising applicants to contact the commission if they receive suspicious demands.
Commissioners said they are notifying applicants and reminding the public that legitimate town fees are collected through established channels; applicants should verify any billing requests with town staff before making payments. The commission noted that the public availability of agenda information makes applicants vulnerable to scammers who harvest contact information after agendas are posted.
Staff advised that if anyone receives a suspicious invoice they should reach out to the planning office rather than sending funds, and to report suspected scams to the town.
