Connecting Fairfield
News from First Selectman Bill Gerber
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Justin Melargano Visits the First Selectman's Office Dressed for Halloween
Seven-year-old Justin Melargano, a student at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School, visited Independence Hall and the First Selectman's office on October 21. Justin is dressing for Halloween as a Town of Fairfield employee, complete with hard hat, reflective vest and combination flashlight/screwdriver. He's ready for work as a municipal employee!
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Oct 24, 2024
Dear Fairfielders,
We formed a new Charter Revision Commission (CRC) at our Board of Selectmen meeting on October 9th. Everyone who volunteered (which they did through our boards and commissions online interest form, found here) had excellent backgrounds and credentials. We are so grateful for their willingness to serve Fairfield. In the end, we chose eight people who we felt, as a team, included a good mix of experience and background. There are regulatory limits on the number of members allowed from a single political party, but in addition, we focused on the following attributes and experience:
- business, finance, operations and management experts
- attorneys, including experts in municipal government
- those with backgrounds in ethics and standards of conduct; and
- former or current members of Fairfield boards and/or commissions.
We appointed eight members instead of the typical seven to ensure that no recommendations could pass with only a bare 4-3 majority. A higher degree of consensus will be needed (five affirmative votes).
I made my recommendations to the new CRC regarding what I would like them to consider (you can read those here) which first needed to be approved by the Board of Selectmen. Selectmen may put forward additional items at a later date for the CRC to consider and those will also need to be approved by the BOS. These recommendations must at least be discussed by the CRC, though the CRC may reject any of them.
Now that the Commission is formed, the recommendations they will ultimately make to the BOS are in their hands. I and other Selectmen, just like any member of the public, may voice our opinions during the process but we cannot control the direction the CRC takes. I did, however, make known my hope that the CRC does not try to tackle major changes in our government structure. I believe the last attempt at Charter revision became bogged down for many months under the weight of attempts to massively restructure our form of government, leaving too little time to deal with the practical changes needed.
This, and the fact that all recommendations were made in one large, omnibus ballot question, likely doomed the 2022 proposals to failure. I will ask for as many separate ballot questions as possible, allowing you, our voters, to choose which recommendations you like and which ones you don’t.
The Charter Revision Commission is required to submit its draft report to the Board of Selectmen by May 13, 2025. Please try to participate in the upcoming Public Hearing, either in person or remotely, if you have any comments for the Commission to consider. See details below.
As always, I welcome your thoughts about life in Fairfield. You can reach me at firstselectman@fairfieldct.org, or you can call my office at 203-256-3030.
Bill Gerber
First Selectman
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MOVING FAIRFIELD FORWARD
Town Government in Action
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Charter Revision Commission to Hold Public Hearing on November 6
On October 9, the Board of Selectmen voted to establish the Charter Review Commission, and appointed eight members tasked with reviewing our current Charter and submitting draft recommendations for updates by May 13, 2025. Members of the Commission include:
Chris DeWitt, Chair
Jane Biagini, Vice Chair
Daniel Blanco
Mary Hogue
Brian McCann
Gerry McEnery
Eric Treschuk
Karen Wackerman
The 2024-2025 Charter Revision Commission will hold its first Public Hearing on Wednesday, November 6 at 7:00 p.m. in Classroom 102 at The Joseph Elias Fire Training Center, 205 Richard White Way, off of Reef Road and via Zoom.
A Public Hearing is required before any substantive Commission work begins. All members of the public are encouraged to attend to comment, suggest ideas and ask questions. The community can also email CRC members at CRC@Fairfieldct.org.
The Town Charter is a legal document that establishes the Town's form of government, including boards, commissions, and committees, and defines how the Town is organized. The Charter is the Town's constitution, and as such, is the cornerstone of local governance. State law requires that municipalities update their Charter every ten years. Fairfield's last Charter revision was in 2006, nearly 18 years ago. An omnibus question failed at the ballot box in 2022. On November 4, 2025, the ballot will list recommended Charter changes for voters to decide upon.
For those attending remotely:
To participate online via Zoom:
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Via web browser: https://zoom.us/j/7250682403 (Passcode: 123)
- From the Zoom app on your computer, phone, or tablet:
- Meeting ID: 725 068 2403 / Meeting Passcode: 123
To view live:
Via Phone:
- Call (646) 931-3860 / Meeting ID: 725 068 2403 / Meeting Passcode: 123
You can sign up to receive Agendas and Backup here.
You can access the 2024-2025 Charter Revision Commission Webpage here.
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Redding Road Roundabout Begins Construction
Construction began on the roundabout at the intersection of Redding and Dunham Roads on October 23, and with continued good weather should be complete within several weeks. The roundabout is designed to slow traffic moving through this area as well as markedly improve line of sight issues at this low visibility intersection.
Over the past several months, the Town has made a number of safety improvements to Redding Road, including edge lines that visually narrow the road and slow drivers, center rumble strips that warn drivers when they leave their lane, and reflective post delineators on all speed limit signs on Redding Road that catch the attention of drivers, especially at night.
The Town is currently commissioning a study to define the boundaries of the Town's right-of-way and to review and analyze intersecting roads for vehicular, pedestrian, and bicycle safety on three roads: Redding Road, Mill Plain Road, and Sturges Road. Traffic calming measures and safety, however, continue to be a priority in all areas of Town.
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Groundbreaking on Redding Road: From left to right, Selectman Christine Vitale; Fairfield resident Sarah Roy; Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee Chair Sarah Mason; Engineering Manager Bill Hurley; Fairfield Police Chief Robert Kalamaras; Public Works General Supervisor of Streets & Highways Jim Carney; State Representative Sarah Keitt; First Selectman Bill Gerber; Assistant Director of Public Works John Cottell; Fairfield resident Denise Fernandez; Chief of Staff Christine Brown; Emergency Management Director David Becker; Acting Fire Chief Kyran Dunn | |
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$1 Million in Funding Approved for Greenfield Hill Infrastructure
The State Bond Commission and Governor Ned Lamont approved $1 million in funding requested by State Representative Sarah Keitt at a special meeting on October 22. The funding will support improved pedestrian and vehicle safety in the Greenfield Hill area and go toward installing roundabouts and other traffic calming measures along Redding Road. There have been two pedestrian fatalities on Redding Road since 2022.
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Winter Is Around the Corner: Snow Removal Policy
When snow falls, public safety is the Town's first priority. With 275 miles of streets in Town, snow removal can cost up to $4,000 per hour. Here are a few things you should know:
Basketball Hoops in the Right-of-Way: During winter operations basketball hoops in the Town's right-of-way-impede the ability of our snowplow equipment to clear the snow along the curb lines and in some instances can damage both the snowplow equipment and your property. Please remove the basketball hoops so that our Public Works team can perform their work in an efficient and effective manner. After November 1, DPW will be tagging basketball hoops that are perceived to be dangerous.
Plow Routes: Streets are plowed and salted in order of priority. Main roads are addressed first with special attention to steep hills and difficult intersections. Side streets are done next, then dead end streets. Side streets may remain unplowed if main roads require repeated plowing. Main roads must remain open, especially for emergency vehicles.
Blocked Driveways: All snowplows angle the same way--to the driver's right--and when going by they will push the snow in front of a driveway. Homeowners are responsible for access to their driveways. The only way to avoid extra shoveling is to wait until DPW crews have done their final clean up on the street. After a storm, DPW may have to plow the road several times to restore the full width.
Sidewalks: Per Town ordinance, property owners are responsible for removing snow and ice from the sidewalk along your property line within 24 hours after a storm and keeping them clear of snow and ice. Keeping sidewalks clear is very important to allow pedestrian access. Please remember to shovel around fire hydrants
Remove Snow on Vehicles: It is state law in Connecticut to remove snow and ice from your vehicle before driving on roads. When you fail to remove snow and ice from your vehicle you are putting yourself and others at risk. Penalties can be as much as a $120 fine.
Even Side of the Street Emergency Parking Restrictions: If we receive a significant amount of snow and ice, the Town may institute Emergency Parking Restrictions, helping to facilitate the removal of snow by DPW and improve safety to motorists and pedestrians. Once an executive order is issued from the First Selectman's office, street parking will only be permitted on the even-numbered side of any street until the ban is lifted.
Thank you for your cooperation!
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Questions about Water Pollution Control Authority and Sewers?
WPCA’s Sewer Department has developed a pre-application checklist to guide residents through the information needed to connect to or modify a connection to the town’s sanitary sewer system. The new checklist (with a list of flow metering companies as a supporting document) has been added to the website –you can access the documents here. There is also a new email inbox where you can send questions related to Sewer Department activities at sewers@fairfieldct.org.
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Penfield Pavilion Update
Backfilling work to elevation 8’ under the locker room area has been completed and installation of the building skirting around this area has reached substantial completion. Two thirds of the main building is now sitting on its new foundations. The contractor is preparing to install helical piles and pour new concrete foundations under the last section of the main building.
Outside of the building footprint, framing for the new decks, ramps, and stairs are ongoing. To date we have removed approximately 95% of the contaminated fill from the site. The contaminated soil is being transported to licensed disposal facilities in accordance with environmental regulations and the Town’s Licensed Environmental Professionals. For questions about work at Penfield Pavilion, please send an email to Penfield@Fairfieldct.org.
Quick Facts:
Backfill site to elevation 8’ – 70% Complete
Helical Pile Installation – 80% Complete
Deck Framing – 48% Complete
New Concrete Foundations – 75% Complete
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Riverside Drive Culvert Replacement Project
We’re pleased to share that progress is being made on the Riverside Drive Culvert Replacement project. The contractor is currently implementing the sewer bypass, which is the first crucial step in the job.
New doghouse manholes have been installed and the team is working on installing the new bypass pipe and pumps. Overall, the project is progressing as planned. We appreciate your patience and support.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Project Manager Eli Ghazal at (203) 256-3015.
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South Pine Creek Open Space Trail Closures
As part of the South Pine Creek tide gate replacement project, there will be long-term Open Space trail closures after 10/23/24, with an expected reopening date of summer 2025. Preparatory site-work and heavy construction equipment will begin to appear on-site and is being staged in the Kiwanis Field parking lot. Open space trails will remain open throughout the project with access from other locations such as Salt Meadow, Old Dam Road and the Senior Center. Below is a map which includes the trail closure points.
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This photo of the League of Women Voters in 1924 urges women to vote. | |
Important Election Information
Dates you should know:
Absentee Ballots are available now.
Oct 18: Last day to register to vote by mail or online. Note: New voters can register in person during early voting and on election day.
Oct 21: First day of Early Voting.
Nov 3: Last day of Early Voting.
Nov 4: Last day to obtain an absentee ballot.
Note: You must return your ballot by Nov. 5.
Early Voting for the Presidential Election
Early voting for the presidential election will be held at two locations. You may vote at either:
Old Town Hall: 611 Old Post Road; 2nd Floor Conference Room
Fairfield University Media Center: Use the Barlow Road entrance and bear left to the first building where there will be reserved parking.
Early Voting Dates and Times:
Monday, October 21 through Sunday, November 3: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day
Tuesday, October 29 & Thursday, October 31: 8 a.m.- 8 p.m., Extended Hours
Presidential Election Day:
Tuesday, November 5: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Where do I vote?
Locate your regular polling location here.
Have other questions?
Call the Registrar of Voter's Office at 203-256-3115 or email them at rov@fairfieldct.org.
The CT Secretary of State has information, too. Find it here.
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Map showing early voting location at Fairfield University. If you require assistance, you may take advantage of Curbside Voting. Contact the Registrar's Office when you arrive. | |
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Map showing early voting location at Town Hall. If you require assistance, you may take advantage of Curbside Voting. Contact the Registrar's Office when you arrive.
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Accessible Voting for All Voters
Voting is one of our nation’s most fundamental rights and a hallmark of our democracy. It is critical that all eligible voters have equal access and opportunity to participate in our electoral process. Voting can present a unique set of challenges to voters with disabilities, however. Fortunately, important federal and state laws exist to protect the fundamental right to vote and prohibit discrimination on the basis of a disability. Those laws are designed to ensure that everyone has full and equal access to voting.
Every polling location in Fairfield has accessible voting options
You can watch a video on accessible voting here.
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Sustainable Fairfield Members Recognized
Six members of Sustainable Fairfield were honored on October 23 with the Presidential Volunteer Service Award.
Bob Wall and Mary Hogue received the Gold Adult Level. Jim Marren and Becky Bunnell received the Silver Adult Level. Sreya Mothukuri, a Warde graduate now at UConn, and Asad Syed, a Ludlowe Senior, received the Silver Young Adult Award.
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From left to right, Bob Wall, Mary Hogue, Jim Marren, Asad Syed, Bill Gerber and Rabab Hussain. Not pictured: Becky Bunnell and Sreya Mothukuri | |
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DON'T MISS THESE EVENTS
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Get Your Flu Shot Now through December 3 | |
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Fairfield Restaurant Week, October 21 - November 3
The Town of Fairfield’s Office of Community & Economic Development is pleased to announce that the popular Fairfield Restaurant Week, now in its thirteenth year, returned on Monday, October 21st and will run through Sunday, November 3rd. More than two dozen restaurants are participating in this year’s event with special prix fixe lunch and dinner menus showcasing their finest culinary offerings. This year’s event will again run two full weeks, giving patrons more time to visit their favorite eating establishments.
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The Enchanted Castle, Oct 23-27
The Enchanted Castle is a community event where families travel through Fairfield’s Burr Homestead. Six rooms are brought to life by storybook characters who narrate the tales of Cinderella, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Jungle Book, and The Wizard of Oz. The Castle is designed for children 2-10 years of age but is fun for the whole family! At the end of each Castle tour, families are encouraged to explore our Castle Cafe & Boo-tique for fun treats and refreshments. Information and tickets can be found here.
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Bags N' Brews Cornhole Tournament, Oct 26, Noon
Firefighters Jeff DeNitto, a 25-year veteran of the Fire Department, and Tim Firla, an 18-year veteran, each have family members battling cancer. Come enjoy the Cornhole Tournament and raise money to help the families.
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Open VISIONS Forum, Fairfield University: Douglas Brinkley, "Highs and Lows of the American Presidency, Nov. 1, 3:00 p.m.
Fairfield University’s Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts will present renowned American historian and bestselling author Douglas Brinkley as he delivers the History Department’s annual lecture in conjunction with the Open VISIONS Forum series on Friday, Nov. 1 at 3 p.m. In his talk, titled “Highs and Lows of the American Presidency: Past, Present, Future,” Brinkley will explore the evolution of the American presidency, offering insights into its history and trajectory. More information and register for tickets here.
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The High School Scholarship Foundation of Fairfield Gala, Nov 2, 7 p.m. | |
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Public Invited to Attend Veteran's Day Ceremony, Mon Nov. 11 at 11 a.m.
The annual Fairfield Veterans Day Ceremony, sponsored by American Legion Posts 143 and 74, will be held on Monday, November 11 at 11:00 am near the Veterans Wall of Honor on the Town Green, 611 Old Post Road. The dress code for Veterans attending the ceremony is blue and gray and Post Commanders should bring unit colors and stand.
Following the November 11 ceremony, the Eunice Dennis Burr Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) will provide a light lunch for Veterans and their families inside the Old Fairfield Academy which is located at 635 Old Post Road near the Old Town Hall. In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved inside the Old Academy. For more information, call Chris DeWitt, Commander of the Lt. Owen Fish American Legion Post 143 at 203-570-5650 or Chrisdewitt103@gmail.com.
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Rally Against United Illuminating's Power Lines, Tues Nov 12, 7-9 p.m.
The Rally at FTC is FREE of charge. Guest speakers include First Selectman Bill Gerber, community leaders--plus live music! Join your neighbors in fighting massive monopoles in Fairfield at the Fairfield Theater Company, 70 Sanford Street. Mark your calendars!
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Eyes on Fairfield is your space, a place where community members can share memorable moments and highlight the beauty of our Town. Please send us your photos at firstselectman@fairfieldct.org, capturing Fairfield landscapes, events, and places with special memories. | |
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Aurora Borealis at Sasco Beach
Photo submitted by Joel Rock
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BOARD AND COMMISSION OPENINGS
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Here are the current vacancies for Town residents:
Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee: Learn more about this Committee here.
Conservation Commission: Learn more about this Commission here.
Employees Retirement Board: Learn more about this Board here.
Ethics Commission: Learn more about this Commission here.
FairTV Commission: Learn more about this Commission here. A working knowledge of television production is helpful.
Flood and Erosion Control Board: Learn more about this Board here. Experience with riverine systems is desirable.
Parking Authority: Learn more about the Authority here.
Shellfish Commission: Learn more about this Commission here.
Learn more about the Appointment Process here.
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Board of Selectman Meetings
The next regular Board of Selectmen meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 6 at 4:00 p.m. Meetings are held in Independence Hall and open to the public. You can attend either in person or on Webex. You can also read minutes of previous meetings here.
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WHY YOU'RE RECEIVING THIS EMAIL:
As a resident, business owner, student, or individual interested in news about the Town of Fairfield, your name appears on an email list that belongs to the Town database. You might have requested to be on this list or added your name to another Town communication in the past.
This email arrives in your inbox every other Thursday and is official news from Fairfield's First Selectman and the Town of Fairfield. If this email was forwarded to you and you want to receive official emails from your First Selectman, click here. You can also unsubscribe from any newsletter you don't want to receive. Go to the bottom of the email and click unsubscribe.
If you know someone who may benefit from reading Town updates, please forward this newsletter to them and encourage them to subscribe. Thank you!
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Independence Hall
725 Old Post Road, Fairfield, CT 06824
203-256-3030
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