Connecting Fairfield

News from First Selectman Bill Gerber

Daphne Dixon, Executive Director of Live Green CT and the Clean Transportation Coalition-Western CT and Claire Abate, Program Director, presented a Certificate of Recognition to First Selectman Bill Gerber and the Town of Fairfield this week, recognizing the Town’s dedication to promoting sustainability, reducing emissions and advocating for cleaner energy solutions. The Clean Transportation Coalition -Western CT commends Fairfield as a certified-EV friendly workplace for employees’ access to electric utility vehicles (EUVs) and charging stations. The Town has 21 electric vehicles for employee use: 6 Nissan Leafs and 15 Chevy Bolts.

From left: Project Manager Eli Ghazal; First Selectman Bill Gerber; Daphne Dixon, Chief Operating Officer David Becker, and Claire Abate.

Dear Fairfielders,

Great news! This week we learned that our AAA credit rating was reaffirmed by Moody's, S&P, and Fitch. On Thursday, we subsequently issued $33,890,000 in bonds and $8,860,000 in notes in a very competitive process which resulted in lower interest rates than expected. All of this highlights our financial strength and positive long-term outlook. These funds will be utilized for a variety of important projects throughout Town and in our schools.

We held our first Juneteenth commemoration this week, with guest speaker Maurice Nelson from Sacred Heart University, a proclamation, educational opportunities, music, and food. June 19th marks the day that word finally reached enslaved people in Texas that President Lincoln had abolished slavery through the Emancipation Proclamation more than two years before. We discussed the long history of chattel slavery in Connecticut, and specifically in Fairfield. It's important that we acknowledge the significance of Juneteenth as it symbolizes the long struggle of African Americans for equality.

On Monday, June 24, Fairfield will hold a "Power in Pride" event for the community, with a flag raising, proclamation, and family picnic. As on Juneteenth, Pride Day in Fairfield is an opportunity for all of us to renew our commitment to inclusion and fostering a sense of community. The event will take place beginning at 5 p.m. in front of Old Town Hall. By celebrating events such as Juneteenth and Pride Month, we emphasize our willingness to extend tolerance and understanding to people of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities.

I believe that when we welcome people of all cultures and backgrounds to live, work, worship and raise their families with us, we become stronger and more resilient as a Town. In every decision we make, my administration's goal is to embody the attributes of an inclusive community, offer equal access to opportunities and employment, and build trust with the diverse residents we serve.

In that spirit, we are beginning an examination of hiring practices to be sure that our new hires truly reflect the people of our Town. A diverse staff brings a variety of perspectives proven to lead to improved decision making, higher employee morale, and better relations with the community. By ensuring that our hiring processes follow established best practices, we are better able to reach out to diverse populations, recruit the best-qualified applicants, provide fair and impartial testing and job candidate list formation.

As we work toward a more diverse community with a workforce reflective of our Town, our Human Resources Department will commence this process with a review of our Fire Department's outreach, testing, interviewing, and hiring practices. We will then carry this work on with all of our departments in Town.

I am committed to transparency in government. One of the decisions we made at a recent Board of Selectmen meeting is a requirement to submit all discussion topics as specific agenda items in advance. That requirement is a courtesy that allows residents to be aware when a particular subject will be discussed and can then plan to attend or watch the meeting.

You can find Board of Selectmen agendas here. And you can watch the FairTV Government broadcasts here. When you stay informed and engaged, and participate in our local issues and activities, we build a stronger community together.

I encourage you to reach out to me with your questions about this, or anything else. You can email me at firstselectman@fairfieldct.org, or you can call my office at 203-256-3030.

Enjoy the beautiful June days. See you at the beach!

Bill Gerber

First Selectman

UI Monopoles

Thank you to Governor Ned Lamont for hearing our voices!

On June 11, Governor Ned Lamont officially signed HB 5507, a significant piece of legislation correcting regulatory bias currently favoring utility companies, into law. HB 5507- An Act Concerning State Agency and Court Proceedings Relating to Electric Transmission Lines—now ensures a fairer balance with the needs and rights of Connecticut residents, businesses, and municipalities in matters relating to infrastructure siting, use of land, and construction. The governor’s signature signals the most significant change to the regulations governing the Connecticut Siting Council (CSC) since its creation in 1981 under Connecticut Public Act 81-369.

We are grateful to Governor Lamont for hearing the voices of residents throughout the state and signing HB 5507 into law. The governor’s action has unequivocally established the rights of municipalities to participate more fully in Connecticut Siting Council decisions. HB 5507 signed into law serves as a testament to the power of citizen advocacy. Our Administration would like to personally thank Representative Jennifer Leeper and Senator Tony Hwang of Fairfield, Representative Steven Stafstrom of Bridgeport and Representative Matt Blumenthal of Stamford for their extraordinary work in writing and passing this bill.

United Illuminating's Right of Entry Requests: United Illuminating is in the due diligence phase of designing their Design and Management Plan, and as part of that phase, has been requesting Right of Entry permissions from north side abutters. In a meeting between United Illuminating and Town officials, the Town suggested to UI that it limit its Right of Entry requests to a three month-time period, and that UI narrow the scope of its forms to be task-specific which would give residents a better understanding as to whether UI intends to perform non-invasive work, like surveying, as compared to drilling for soil borings.

This week, United Illuminating informed the Town that the revised limited Right of Entry forms are now being sent to north side abutters. The limited Right of Entry requests state that UI is permitted to enter your property with the "necessary persons and equipment" for making visual inspections/examinations, and that those rights will expire six months after the commencement of the "Activities."

A separate type of Right of Entry request was also shared with the Town, which allows "geotechnical investigations involving drilling, sampling, and testing the surface and subsurface soil and groundwater of the property." Those rights will also expire six months after the commencement of the "Activities."

You can either allow the Right of Entry, or you have the right to refuse entry. The exception to your right to refuse entry is if your property deed shows a UI easement on the land. Here’s how you can check to see if your property contains an easement:

• Go to Searchiqs.com
• Click on FAIRFIELD
• Fill in your last name, first name. DO NOT fill in any other fields, or you’ll limit the search. Everything filed under your name will come up: deeds, mortgages, liens, releases, etc.
• Click on VIEW to read the full document.

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Turney Creek Culvert Replacement Project/Riverside Drive

The Turney Creek culverts, tide gates and underground sewer siphon at Riverside Drive in the vicinity of Shoreham Terrace are scheduled to be replaced beginning July 15 to ensure the safety and functionality of our infrastructure. The complex work will involve excavators, dump trucks, cranes, and concrete trucks. The project duration will be 16-18 months.

Due to the complexity and scale of this project, it is necessary to close Riverside Drive at the culvert location for the duration of the work. We have made every effort to minimize disruption, but the closure will ensure the safety of both the workers and the public. The road closure will also prohibit pedestrian traffic. All emergency response departments have been advised of the detour and have plans in place in case of emergencies.

Please see the detailed detour plan below. Signage will be posted well in advance on roadways to guide drivers through the detour routes.

You can monitor updates through the Town Website Engineering page for the latest information on the project's progress, utility work, and upcoming detour plans. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!

Paving Project with Complete Street Components: Route 58

The CT Department of Transportation plans on improvements along Route 58 in Fairfield. This project is 3.9 miles long and extends from the Kings Highway intersection to 0.45 miles north of the Merritt Parkway. This will be a mill and pave project containing some complete street elements: centerline rumble strips on CT 58 between Congress Street and Bennington Drive, up to 25 concrete sidewalk ramps, some pedestrian facility upgrades, and signal detection upgrades at thirteen intersections. The mill and pave work will begin in early August. Construction of concrete sidewalks will begin in July. Most of the work south of the Merritt Parkway will occur from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., while the area to the north will follow same timeline but would allow some work to occur in between rush hours during weekdays (9 a.m.-3 p.m.) and hours from 6 p.m. to 10 a.m. weekends. Project completion is expected by October 1, 2024.

Regional Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan

The Connecticut Metropolitan Council of Governments (MetroCOG), which represents the municipalities of Bridgeport, Easton, Fairfield, Monroe, Stratford, and Trumbull, recently released a draft update to the Regional Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan. The Plan emphasizes actions that can be implemented now to reduce or prevent damage from a future natural disaster, and helps residents take steps to reduce property damage, injury and loss of life. The public is encouraged to review and comment on the Plan through Friday, June 28, 2024. You can find the Plan here.

Please Help the Fairfield Health Department with a Survey

The Health Department is conducting a Community Health Needs Assessment and is distributing a Community Based Assets and Needs Survey as part of this effort. The goal of this brief 5-minute voluntary survey is to better understand the quality of life and important issues facing people who live in Fairfield and in our region. Your input will help guide improvements to programs and services in our area, while helping organizations understand where to focus their attention and resources. All responses are completely anonymous and confidential. Please complete the survey here, and if you can, forward this to other Connecticut residents. Thank you!

TOWN CEREMONIES

Town Celebrates Juneteenth

First Selectman Bill Gerber issued a Town of Fairfield Proclamation on Wednesday, June 19, commemorating the date in 1865 when the enslaved people of Texas were freed, two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. Our first Juneteenth event was a day commemorating freedom, with the goal of encouraging cultural curiosity and historical awareness throughout the Town

Thank you to everyone who attended, and to our speaker, Maurice Nelson, Med, CDE, Sacred Heart University's Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer.

DON'T MISS THESE EVENTS



Power in Pride Picnic, Monday, June 24, 5:00 p.m.

The Town of Fairfield will hold a Power in Pride event on Monday, June 24 at 5:00 p.m. in front of Old Town Hall, with a flag raising, proclamation, speakers, music, and a family picnic.

Speakers:

The Reverend Curtis Farr, St. Paul's Episcopal Church

Michael Testani, Fairfield Public Schools Superintendent

Adrien Lopez, Fairfield Warde High School Student

Sarah Keitt, State Representative, 134th District, Fairfield and Trumbull

The Reverend Sara Smith, United Congregational Church, Bridgeport

Music provided by Fairfield Center Stage

Chalk Walk and Bracelet Making Children's Activities

Picnic on the Green: BYO picnic blanket, food and beverages

Summer Safety Course, Monday, July 1

Scan the QR code below or call Denise Sherwood, Program Coordinator at 203-254-4708 to sign up.

Independence Day Fireworks, Saturday, July 6

6th Annual Fairfield Police Sunset 5K, Wednesday, July 17

We would like to invite everyone to this year’s 6th Annual Fairfield Police Sunset 5K presented by Moneco Advisors, held at Jennings Beach on Wednesday night July 17, 2024. You can register here. This year’s proceeds will be split between two great non-profits, the Fairfield Police Foundation and the Fairfield Police Union Scholarship Fund.



MAKE THE CONNECTION

Chief Operating Officer

David Becker





Bill Gerber announced today that David Becker will be moving into the Chief Operating Officer role, effective immediately. Reporting to the First Selectman, David is responsible for overseeing general operations of the Town, implementing processes and increasing efficiencies. David will continue as Interim CFO as we continue the search process for a permanent CFO.

Q: First, congratulations! Tell us about the Chief Operating Officer role and responsibilities. What will this new position encompass?

A: Thank you! I’d like to thank First Selectman Bill Gerber for this opportunity to serve our Town. As Chief Operating Officer, my role will encompass overseeing the Town’s day-to-day operations, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery, and working to align our operations with the town's strategic goals. I'll also focus on optimizing our resources and improving processes to better serve our community.

Q: You have a wide and varied background. Can you tell us a bit about your experience and your journey to this position?

A: My journey began as a volunteer firefighter, where I gained hands-on experience in public safety and focus on public service. Early in my career, I worked for a non-profit which shaped my views on budgets and maximizing every dollar. My roles in the private sector have allowed me to blend my skills in finance, operations, and technology. This varied background has prepared me well for the responsibilities of the COO position, enabling me to bring a holistic perspective to the role.

Q: What is your vision for a smoothly operating Town of Fairfield?

A: My vision for Fairfield government involves seamless coordination between departments, streamlined processes, and a proactive approach to community needs. By fostering a culture of collaboration, we can ensure efficient service delivery. I aim to improve our strong operational foundation to support the Town’s long-term strategic goals while adapting to immediate challenges.

Q: How do you balance the Town’s immediate needs with its long-term strategic goals?

A: It's about setting clear priorities and being adaptable. I'll ensure urgent issues are addressed promptly without losing sight of our broader objectives. This involves strategic planning, regular progress assessment, and informed decision making. I often run through many scenarios and variables, always looking for the best outcome. Flexibility and planning are proven strengths and I plan to continue applying those methods in this new role.

Q: How does your interim CFO position help you in the new COO position? How do you envision handling budget constraints and financial planning in your COO role?

A: Serving as Interim CFO has deepened my understanding of our town's financial landscape, especially when combined with my prior experience on Town elected boards. Handling budget constraints and financial planning will involve careful prioritization, seeking innovative solutions to maximize our resources, and ensuring that every dollar is spent wisely to achieve the best outcomes for our community.

Q: You also serve as a Deputy Emergency Management Director. Describe your background with emergency management and crisis response.

A: My background in emergency management and public safety spans over two decades, starting as a volunteer firefighter and eventually becoming the Chief of Department. I also served as an emergency manager in another community and have served on various response teams and committees in our state. Locally, I previously took the lead with the implementation of our Virtual Emergency Operations Center. We have a great emergency services team here in Fairfield and I’m proud to be a part of it as we all focus on keeping our Town safe.

Q: What do you consider the most challenging part of what you do? Or what difficulties do you see confronting the Town?

A: The most challenging aspect of my role is balancing the diverse needs of our community with available resources. Delivering high-quality services while managing budget constraints and navigating the complexities of municipal operations can be difficult. Additionally, staying prepared for unforeseen challenges, such as emergencies or economic fluctuations, requires constant vigilance and adaptability.

Q: What is your favorite part of your job? What makes you feel like it was a good day?

A: My favorite part of the job is seeing the positive impact on our community. Whether it's a successful project or a satisfied resident, knowing we've made a difference makes it all worthwhile. A good day is when our team collaborates, overcomes challenges, and enhances the quality of life for our residents.

Q: How long have you lived in Town? What do you love about Fairfield?

A: I grew up in Fairfield and have called it home for over four decades. I love the strong sense of community and the dedication of its residents. Fairfield is a vibrant and welcoming place with such an amazing history and a bright future. The commitment of residents to support one another and work together is truly inspiring. It's an honor to contribute to our Town's continued growth and prosperity.

BOARD AND COMMISSION OPENINGS



Here are the current vacancies for Town residents:



Ethics Commission: Learn more about this Commission here.

Parking Authority: Learn more about the Authority here.

FairTV Commission: Learn more about this Commission here.

Learn more about the Appointment Process here.

How to Contact Your State Legislators

I encourage you to reach out to your elected state legislators with questions or comments on their legislative work in the Connecticut General Assembly. Click on the name below to contact them at their website:

State Senator Tony Hwang

State Representative Jennifer Leeper

State Representative Cristin McCarthy Vahey

State Representative Sarah Keitt

Board of Selectman Meetings

The next regular Board of Selectmen meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 26 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.



EYES ON FAIRFIELD

Help us celebrate the unique beauty of life in Fairfield by sharing your photos with our community. Submit your photos at 300dpi to firstselectman@fairfieldct.org. We live in such a special Town. Share with all of us the sites and sights you love.

Juvenile barred owl

Photo taken by 10-year-old Timmy K

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