CONNECTING FAIRFIELD

News You Need from First Selectperson

Christine Vitale

MetroCOG Holds Meeting to Discuss the Rooster River

The CT Metropolitan Council of Governments (MetroCOG), a regional planning organization encompassing Fairfield, Monroe, Easton, Stratford, Bridgeport and Trumbull, convened a meeting this week with Fairfield, Bridgeport and Trumbull to discuss potential funding, and current and future flood mitigation projects for the Rooster River. MetroCOG has applied for a planning grant from CT DEEP to understand more about the watershed, and to study short, medium, and long-term fixes to mitigate flood incidents.

Fairfield's First Selectperson, Emergency Management Team (including Police and Fire Departments), Plan and Zoning, and Public Works attended the meeting, in addition to state representatives. The state was represented by CT DOT, DEMHS, and the Office of Policy Management (OPM), in addition to federal representatives.

Thank you to State Representative Cristin McCarthy Vahey for requesting the meeting and bringing government leadership together for this discussion.

September 24, 2026

Dear Fairfielders,

We are continuing to keep a close eye on the weather forecast for this weekend. There is still some discrepancy between the major computer weather models on what the track and intensity of the storm will be, but strong winds and rain are expected in both models so at the very least, we are planning for potential power outages and possible flooding.

Our Emergency Management Team is working closely with state officials at the Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS) to assist in recovery efforts from the September 13 storm as well as in preparing for this weekend’s Nor’easter. We will be having a municipal/state call tomorrow and will be able to provide additional information about the weekend’s forecast at that time.

As shared yesterday, we encourage residents to prepare for the storm by charging phones, checking to make sure sump pumps and generators are working, stocking up on groceries, securing items that might blow in the wind, filling cars up with gas, and if you live in an area prone to flooding, moving your car to higher ground.

While we are in the midst of preparing for the next storm, our recovery efforts are continuing from the last storm. We want to thank residents for self-reporting their information into Crisis Track. 1,200 residents and businesses reported flood damage through the survey. The data collected was key in helping the Town identify residents in need of help and enabled us to access additional flood recovery assistance.

We have also been working with the American Red Cross to provide assistance to residents in need. In coordination with DEMHS, Southern Baptist Disaster Relief is offering services to residential homeowners at no charge. These services range from assessment of damages to mold mitigation. See below for more information.

In order to be considered for FEMA assistance, certain damage thresholds need to be met. Fairfield County needs to report $4.65M in damages to residential and municipal infrastructure due to the September 13 flooding. In addition, the state of Connecticut must also report $6.9M in municipal damages due to the flooding. Preliminary reporting indicates that we will hit these initial county and state thresholds, but FEMA will still need to assess and confirm the property damage.

In Fairfield, our initial estimate of damage to public property is $2.25M. 250 homes in Fairfield County would need to be identified as having major damage before FEMA assistance to individual homeowners would be considered; we have not hit that threshold. Unfortunately, FEMA does not consider damage to basements, garages and yards when making these calculations. We know that flooding comes with a financial impact and we will continue to explore other resources to help residents and businesses recover.

As our weather patterns continue to change, sea levels continue to rise, and sudden, intense rain events become more frequent, we need to invest in building a more resilient Town infrastructure. Work is scheduled to begin next week at Fairchild Wheeler on the Rooster River detention ponds (weather permitting). The purpose of these detention ponds is to slow the flow of the river as it moves downstream. This is just the first phase of mitigation efforts along the Rooster River.

We are in the process of completing a Master Flood and Resiliency Plan which will offer potential mitigation strategies for our coast, rivers and downtown flooding. Funding for future flood and storm water management infrastructure will be included in the Town’s 10-year Capital Plan. The Board of Finance is holding its annual Capital Plan Workshop tonight at 7pm should you want to learn more about the town, school and WPCA projects included in the plan.

Since the weekend is looking like it may be a washout, it is the perfect opportunity to stay home, stay off the roads, and if the storm hits, please don’t forget to check on your neighbors. Stay safe!

Christine Vitale

First Selectperson

QUICK HITS: What's In This Newsletter



THINGS YOU NEED-TO-KNOW

Flood Recovery Assistance

• The CT Division of Emergency Management & Homeland Security (DEMHS) has worked collaboratively with the CT Volunteer Organizations Assisting in Disasters (VOAD) to engage the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (SBDR) organization to offer support for specific needs related to the September 13^th flooding event direct to residents in Fairfield and surrounding towns.

• Residential homeowners can call 203-628-6978 to request flood recovery assistance for the September 13 storm. Please leave a message with your name, address, telephone number, and a brief description of your needs. Debris removal from the property is the responsibility of the homeowner.

• Please note that there is currently a problem leaving messages. This problem will be resolved as quickly as possible.

SBDR offers the following services at no charge:

• Assessment: First step for the SBDR teams to know what your needs are, helping the homeowner understand what needs to be done and why.

• Carry Out: This service helps the homeowner move large, damaged items out of the flood affected area. SBDR will not remove large freezers, hot water tanks, furnaces or oil tanks, except on a case-by-case basis, and reserves the right to refuse to carry out other large items. This service carries the items to the curb depending on disposal criteria.

• Tear Out: This service helps the homeowner remove affected wall coverings and insulation, floor coverings, and if needed, ceiling coverings, affected trim work, Masonite doors, etc.

• Clean Out: Sweeping, vacuuming, and power washing when needed.

• Mold Mitigation: This service is the first step in controlling the mold that may be growing. SBDR will spray the affected area with a product called Shockwave, a professional grade product to eliminate mold spores and prevent regrowth. This product is not toxic like bleach and is done working eight hours after application. Then the spray team will give the homeowners instructions for further mitigation procedures.

Be Weather Ready: Preparedness & Resiliency Center

• The Connecticut Insurance Department (CID) has just launched the Be Weather Ready: Preparedness & Resiliency Center, a new online hub that helps residents understand weather‑related risks, review insurance coverage, and prepare your homes before severe weather strikes.

• As we head into winter, please take a moment to review the many resources available through the link above.

Rooster River Debris Cleaned Out

• The debris obstruction that gathered in the Rooster River at the Kings Highway/ Moody Ave bridge has been cleared by CT DOT, allowing water to move more freely beneath the bridge and downstream.

Major Reductions to Weekend Metro-North Service Planned for Oct 10-11 and Oct 17-18

• Oct. 10-11 and Oct. 17-18: High Tower Work: During the WALK Bridge high tower construction activities on these weekends, electric train service will continue to operate through the reconstruction zone during scheduled work windows.

• Approximately five trains are planned to operate during each work window to maximize customer travel opportunities, but there will be approximately 30% fewer seats available compared with a typical weekend schedule.

• Metro-North will issue special schedules for the October work weekends in late September. Passengers are encouraged to review schedules before traveling and allow additional time for their trip during these construction weekends.

• Plan Before You Travel: The construction schedule is subject to change. Customers are encouraged to review train schedules and service information using the MTA TrainTime and Amtrak apps before traveling.

• Project Information: WALKBridgeCT.com 

• Stay informed:
• Metro-North service alerts: https://new.mta.info/alerts 
• Email and text notifications: https://new.mta.info/notify 

Annual Thanksgiving Football Game: Fairfield Warde vs Fairfield Ludlowe High Schools

• To help ensure that more members of our community can be part of the annual Thanksgiving football game between Fairfield Warde and Fairfield Ludlowe High Schools, beginning this year the game will be played on the Wednesday evening prior to Thanksgiving. 

• The game is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate school spirit and cheer on our student athletes. Holding the event on Wednesday evening will give our football players, cheerleaders, dance team members, and pep band members the opportunity to perform in front of a larger crowd of students, families, and community members. 

• Additional timing and ticket details will be shared closer to the event date. 

E-Bikes, Safe Streets, and Shared Responsibility:

A Community Conversation on October 1

• E-bikes and E-scooters are a popular way for adults and young people to get around Fairfield, but knowing how to ride safely is essential for everyone sharing the road.

• Join us on October 1 for an informative panel featuring Fairfield police and fire department first responders, as well as emergency room physicians and hospital staffers. They’ll share practical safety information for riders of all ages, including children, teens and adults.

• The program will include a Q and A session, giving residents an opportunity to ask questions directly of our safety and medical experts, including local pediatric professionals.

• Following the panel, attendees can visit informational tables for more personal, one-on-one conversations and information.

• You can watch this video about inspirational guest speaker John Bysiewicz, a cyclist who suffered extensive physical injuries from a bike accident. John and his wife Jenny Glass will discuss the emotional and physical effects of a bicyclist in an impact with a car to encourage safer behavior while riding.

Don't Worry About Me: The Story of John Bysiewicz

Lower Wharf Improvement Project Completed

• The Town is pleased to announce the completion of the Lower Wharf Improvement Project, which included construction of a new fishing pier, reconstruction of the seawalls, and significant improvements to the surrounding park area.

• This project represents an important investment in our waterfront and will provide residents and visitors with enjoyment for years to come.

• A ribbon-cutting ceremony is being planned for mid-October, and additional details will be announced as they become available.

Introducing The Motherhood Circle

• For all new moms: Would you like to join The Motherhood Circle, a free, eight-week group for first-time moms here in Fairfield?

• The idea is simple: create a welcoming place to talk honestly about the transition into motherhood, provide an opportunity to connect with other moms, and hopefully build a little village along the way.

• The first cycle of the group will be limited to 10 moms, babies are absolutely welcome, and there is no charge to participate.

• We’re still figuring out the day, time and location, so if this sounds like something you might be interested in, please take a minute to complete the short survey on the flyer. 

Fairfield Schools Recognized as CT Vision Zero Program of Distinction Winner

• The Vision Zero Program of Distinction for Schools is a Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) award recognizing local and regional school boards that implement programs teaching students safe driving habits, pedestrian safety skills, and the mission of the Vision Zero Council 

• Fairfield was one of six towns recognized at a ceremony on September 23. Fairfield Public Schools were nominated based on participation in the Safe Routes to School Program, a national initiative that makes it safer for students to walk and bike to school.

• Riverfield Elementary School, Stratfield Elementary School, Osborn Hill Elementary School and McKinley Elementary School host multiple biyearly Walk, Bike and Roll to School days, featuring Bike Buses, to teach families safe walking and biking skills while encouraging healthier habits.

• Riverfield and Stratfield have also received CT DOT Active Transportation Microgrants to support their Bike Bus and Walk, Bike and Roll to School programs.

• You can learn more about Safe Routes to School here.

• In the photo above, Complete Streets Coordinator Sarah Mason (far left) explains Fairfield's Safe Routes to School program.

From left to right, Bridget Moriarty, Safe Routes to School Coordinator at CT DOT; Eric Therriault, Assistant Principal at McKinley Elementary School; Sarah Mason, Town of Fairfield Complete Streets Coordinator; Julie McDaniel, Riverfield Elementary School PTA President; Mary Rose Dymond, Riverfield Elementary School Principal; Garrett Eucalitto, Commissioner of CT DOT.

Schedule Your Flu Vaccine with the Health Department

• The health department is now accepting appointments for flu vaccines on various dates from 10am - 2pm with extended hours on 9/23. Individuals can make an appointment here: or call us at 203-256-3150.

• In addition to the open appointment hours, we will have clinics on the following days:

• Thursday 10/1 from 10am - 2pm at the Senior Center in the cafe (Senior focused but anyone can come)

• Tuesday 10/20 and Wednesday 10/21 from 12pm - 7pm at the Senior Center (gym)

• Tuesday 11/10 from 3pm - 7pm at the Senior Center (gym)

• Wednesday 11/16 from 3pm - 6pm at the Senior Center (Cafe)

• We offer both high dose and regular flu as well as limited doses of flu mist for kids. 

• Book appointments here.

Recycling Tips: Broken Glass Contaminates Recycling

• Learn more about recycling in Fairfield here.

Artist Opportunity: Repaint Fire Hydrants as Colonial Soldiers

• The Fairfield Arts Commission is looking to work with a few local artists to help repaint some of the fire hydrants in Fairfield that were painted to look like redcoat soldiers. Some may remember Jeanne Harrison, who first began painting the hydrants as part of the nation's Bicentennial celebration, and later to commemorate the Town's 375th anniversary.

• The Commission is looking to carry on her tradition with the help of a group of local volunteers but this time, repaint 8 to 10 hydrants as colonial soldiers, beginning this fall.

• Please contact arts@fairfieldct.org if you are interested in helping out.

Bach is Looking for a Home!

• Bach is a young male wire-haired Black Lab mix who is available for adoption at Fairfield Animal Control.

• At under 2 years old, Bach still has plenty of puppy playfulness and loves to stay active. He is already a large dog and appears to still be filling out, so his future family should be ready for a big dog with lots of energy and personality!

• Bach is currently awaiting his neuter and will be able to go to his new home once that is complete, but you don't have to wait to apply! We are accepting adoption applications for Bach now.

• If you think Bach might be the right fit for your family, contact Fairfield Animal Control at 203-254-4857 to learn more or schedule a time to meet him.

Three-Way Stop Signs Planned for Brookside Drive and North Benson Road

• The Fairfield Traffic Authority (FTA) has approved new three-way stop signs at the intersection of Brookside Drive and North Benson Road to increase driver safety. Installation will begin shortly.

Fifth Annual Lincoln Parkapalooza Prize Winners

• The Lincoln Parkapalooza held a Poetry & Art contest this year to celebrate America 250, which was a smashing success. All of the students were honored with the First Selectperson’s official signature on their submissions.

Winners of the 2028 Fairfield Student Art & Poetry Contest:

• Abigail Bundhoo, Fairfield Woods Middle School
• Annika Berkey, Fairfield Ludlowe High School
• Brendan Lee, Fairfield Ludlowe High School
• Cordelia Fallon, North Stratfield Elementary School
• Crystal Yan, Roger Ludlowe Middle School
• Gabby Jean Louis, Stratfield Elementary School
• Jacqueline Glick, Roger Ludlowe Middle School
• Natalia Marcela Casarrubias Del Razo, Fairfield Ludlowe High School
• Tariku Mabley, Fairfield Ludlowe High School

• All winners received a special class celebration in their school.

• Congratulations to all the winners!

Rotary Club of Fairfield's Peace Pole Dedication Ceremony

• The dedication ceremony for the Rotary Club of Fairfield's Peace Pole, located at the Fairfield Police Station on Reef Road, was held today.

• Longtime Fairfield Rotarian John Lee donated the Peace Pole, and remarks were made by Mr. Lee, Rotary President Tom Sansone, First Selectperson Christine Vitale, and Chief of Police Michael Paris at the official unveiling.

• Peace Poles are dedicated in observance of the United Nations International Day of Peace, which took place on Monday, September 21, coinciding with the solemn Jewish holiday Yom Kippur. The dedication date was moved out of respect for the Jewish community.

• A Peace Pole is an internationally recognized symbol of hope and unity. Its message invites each of us to help build peace in our homes, schools, community, and world.

The Fairfield Peace Pole messages:



• May Peace Prevail on Earth

• May Peace Be in Our Community

• May Peace Be in Our Schools

• May Peace Be in Our Homes

• Photo shows the Fairfield Rotary Club

From left to right, First Selectperson Christine Vitale; Chief of Police Michael Paris; Rotary Club of Fairfield President Tom Sansone

From left to right, Rotarian and Peace Pole Donor John Lee; First Selectperson Christine Vitale; Chief of Police Michael Paris; Rotary Club President Tom Sansone

DON'T MISS THESE EVENTS

(Listed in chronological order)

Fairfield Farmer's Market Sundays through Oct 11

• Every Sunday through October 11, 2026

• 10:00am - 2:00pm

• Sherman Town Green, 1451 Post Rd

Halloween Costume Swap: Drop Off through October 15

• Pequot Library and FPS Green Teams are partnering on a town-wide Halloween costume swap.

• From September 21 to October 15, we'll collect gently used costumes here at the library and at most Fairfield Public Schools.

• On October 17, we're inviting the entire community to come "shop" for a (free!) new-to-them costume. 

Scarecrow Contest through October 31

Pink Pledge Hope on the Green, September 25

Fall Migration Nature Walks Sept 25, Oct 2, Oct 9

Middle School Meet-ups Begin September 26

• The Town of Fairfield is excited to announce Middle School Meet-ups, a new series of free, phone-limited events for 6th–8th graders to connect, make friends, and have fun.

• Inspired directly by student feedback, this series runs from September through April, with local organizations hosting nine different events across town. The series kicks off on Saturday, September 26, 6:30-8:30pm with Game Night & Karaoke at Fairfield Public Library.

• Registration is required, food will be provided and there will be Here for You giveaways at this kick-off event! You can find out more information about this series here. We hope to see your student there!

Onion Fest, October 3

The Fairfield Father’s Forum, Oct 10, Nov 7

• The Fairfield Police Behavioral Health Network will continue its Fairfield Father’s Forum this fall, giving dads a place to connect, share experiences, and talk openly about the challenges of parenting.

• Led by Vince Benevento, LPC, Founder and Director of Causeway Collaborative, discussions will include topics such as co-parenting, communicating with teenagers, managing stress, and navigating the everyday challenges of being a dad.

• The forum will meet at 9:30 a.m. at Saugatuck Sweets, 28 Reef Road, on October 10 and November 7.

Fairfield Arts Commission: Meet the Artists! Oct 13

Connecticut Community Campaign, First Church, Oct 17

State Senator Candidate Forum, October 19

Registration required with a $20 entrance fee. You can purchase tickets here.

Enchanted Castle October 22 -25

More information can be found here.

EYES ON FAIRFIELD

Onion Drop

• The Onion Drop takes place at the end of the Onion Fest every year, topping off a fun community event honoring our heirloom onion: the Southport Globe Onion.

• A large, lit-up faux onion is lowered by a Town of Fairfield bucket truck at the end of each Fest at dusk.   

• Learn more about the Sasquanaug Conservancy here.

Eyes on Fairfield is a place where community members can share memorable moments and highlight the beauty of our Town. Please send us your photos at firstselectperson@fairfieldct.org, capturing Fairfield landscapes, events, and places with special memories.

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The next Board of Selectperson meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 7 at

4:00 p.m.

Meetings are held in Independence Hall and open to the public. You can attend in person or by tuning into FairTV's YouTube channel here. You can view recorded meetings here or read minutes of previous meetings here.



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