Category: Fairfield

Senator Hwang Urges Siting Council to Reverse Course on UI Transmission Line Project

At a press conference today, State Senator Tony Hwang (R–Fairfield) urged the Connecticut Siting Council (CSC) to reconsider and dismiss its recent straw-vote approval under Docket 516R. He called on United Illuminating (UI) to submit a new application that fully complies with the transparency and due-process standards of Public Act 24-144.

“This isn’t anti-infrastructure—it’s pro-process, pro-community, and pro-solution,” Hwang said. “The Council’s abrupt reversal—without any new public testimony, fact-finding, or record development—undermines confidence in a body that must be above reproach. We need a lawful reset that restores public trust.”

Speakers criticized the project’s impact on municipal, church, and library properties, calling it an “unprecedented taking” of more than 19 acres of land. They also warned of irreversible damage to Southport’s historic district, where 140-foot towers and clear-cutting would alter the viewsheds of three National Historic Landmarks.

Hwang also pushed back against characterizations of the opposition as a “NIMBY” movement. NIMBY—short for Not In My Back Yard—is often used to dismiss community objections to development. “This is not about NIMBY,” Hwang stressed. “This is about protecting communities from an unjust process. Instead of partnering with the communities it serves, UI is fighting against them.”

Democrats and Republicans in Fairfield and Bridgeport stood together at the event, pledging to fight the project in defense of residents, businesses, and historic neighborhoods.

Fire On Da Roof…Again

https://www.doingitlocal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/0-new-copy-5.mp4

Firefighters are on scene at Alto Fairfield Metro Apartments 1401 Kings Hwy, Fairfield, for a fire on da roof….again. A witness said it looked like a Roman Candle firework going off on the roof. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire.

2025-08-28@8:50pm–#Fairfield CT #ctfire

Fairfield U, Public Schools Launch Athlete-Led Mentorship Program for Kids

Fairfield University and Fairfield Public Schools are excited to announce a new partnership connecting the University’s NCAA Division I student-athletes with local elementary students to promote mentorship, literacy, and community engagement. Rooted in Fairfield’s Jesuit mission, the initiative includes school visits, campus events, and opportunities for young learners to connect with positive role models through athletics and service.

Christine Vitale Selected as Fairfield First Selectman

Fairfield, Conn., August 25, 2025 — Tonight, Fairfield elective town officers, as designated by Section 9-222 of the Connecticut state statutes, convened at a public meeting to fill the vacancy of First Selectman for the Town of Fairfield. Acting First Selectman Christine Vitale was unanimously appointed to serve as First Selectman for the Town of Fairfield for the remainder of the late First Selectman William A. Gerber’s term which is November of 2027. The seat became vacant on July 15, 2025 after the tragic passing of First Selectman Gerber who died from surgical complications due to a brain tumor.

First Selectman Christine Vitale said, “I am honored and humbled to continue serving our community as First Selectman. There has been a lot of discussion around the need to heal and unite our Town. I can assure you that has been my top priority since assuming this role almost two months ago. I remain focused on providing stability for Fairfield’s residents and town employees, keeping town operations running smoothly, making myself accessible to residents and working collaboratively to address the challenges facing our community. While the past few weeks have been filled with ups and down for Fairfield, through it all we leaned on each other and became stronger. Bill Gerber and I ran on the slogan ‘Better Together’ and that will continue to guide my approach to public service.”

Christine Vitale has been serving as Acting First Selectman since June 28, 2025 when First Selectman Gerber was first hospitalized. First Selectman Gerber designated her to serve as Acting First Selectman, if he was unable to continue to serve. Running as Gerber’s running mate, she was elected to the Board of Selectmen in November 2023.

Prior to serving on the Board of Selectmen, Ms. Vitale served on the Board of Education from 2017-2023, serving as Chair from 2018-2022 and led the Board through the challenges associated with the fill pile scandal and the COVID-19 pandemic. She was instrumental in securing funding for the renovations at Mill Hill Elementary School and HVAC upgrades at Osborn Hill Elementary School, North Stratfield Elementary School, Fairfield Woods Middle School, Tomlinson Middle School and Fairfield Warde High School.

Prior to serving on the Board of Education, Ms. Vitale was an active volunteer in town, chairing multiple Parent Teacher Associations, leading girl scout troops and serving in leadership roles in the Junior League of Eastern Fairfield County. Her professional background is in project management and she has been working part-time while raising her three children Katherine, Julia, and John. Ms. Vitale has a Bachelor of Arts from Binghamton University, majoring in Political Science and English.

Christine and her husband Bill have called Fairfield home for 29 years; their daughters are proud graduates of the Fairfield Public Schools and their son is currently enrolled in the Community Partnership Program.

Line Up Set for Fairfield Restaurant Week – Summer EditionAugust 25 – September 7!

Fairfield’s Office of Community & Economic Development has announced the return of Fairfield Restaurant Week, which will run for two full weeks from August 25 through September 7, 2025. Now in its 14th year, the event will feature more than two dozen local restaurants offering prix fixe and discounted menus, ranging from casual bites to fine dining. Participating eateries include popular spots such as Artisan Southport, Barcelona Wine Bar, Blackstones Grille, Bodega Taco Bar, Mecha Noodle Bar, The Gray Goose, and many more, showcasing a wide variety of cuisines from seafood and steaks to Latin Fusion and Asian specialties.

Organizers emphasize that the event is more than just dining—it’s an opportunity to highlight Fairfield’s many attractions and community events taking place alongside Restaurant Week. With support from Fairfield University as lead sponsor and media partners including Star 99.9 and Hearst Media, the town hopes residents and visitors will enjoy a “night out” experience while supporting local businesses. More information, including participating restaurants, sample menus, and a calendar of events, is available at experiencefairfieldct.org.

As Tropical Storm Erin Looms, Senator Tony Hwang Leads Coastal Resiliency Forum to Strengthen Climate Readiness and Community Safety

FAIRFIELD, CT — With Tropical Storm Erin forming in the Atlantic and potentially tracking toward the Northeast, State Senator Tony Hwang (R–Fairfield) hosted his annual Hurricane Coastal Resiliency Forum to confront the escalating threats of climate change and extreme weather to Fairfield and coastal communities across Connecticut.

The forum could not be more timely. Rising sea levels and warming ocean temperatures are fueling more intense and dangerous storms, and experts warn that Erin could become another wake-up call for our region. Senator Hwang emphasized the urgent need for action—not just after storms hit, but through continuous preparation, awareness, and education.

“Climate change is real, and it’s accelerating. What we’re seeing with storms like Erin forming in the Atlantic is not a coincidence—it’s a consequence,” said Senator Hwang. “We must be proactive. This is about saving lives, protecting homes, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of our communities.”

The event brought together top environmental, safety, and infrastructure experts, including Robert LaFrance (Audubon Connecticut), Jim O’Donnell (UConn CIRCA), Becky Bunnell (Fairfield Flood & Erosion Control Board), and Retired Lt. James Perez (Fairfield Police Department). They shared actionable strategies and emphasized the shared responsibility of residents, officials, and governments to invest in a resilient future.

Forum Highlights:

  • Sea Level Rise and Climate Projections:
    Jim O’Donnell emphasized the state’s mandate for municipalities to plan for up to 50 inches of sea level rise by 2050, warning that communities must balance infrastructure investment with economic realities.
  • Nature-Based Climate Defenses:
    Robert LaFrance spotlighted the cost-effective protection that marshlands and wetlands offer by absorbing floodwaters, reducing damage, and capturing carbon emissions. “Nature is our best ally when it comes to climate resilience.”
  • Emergency Response Preparedness:
    Lt. Perez underscored the need for clear communication and coordinated response plans. He urged residents to be informed and take preparedness seriously.  “When warnings come, they must be heeded. Emergency response only works when the community is engaged.”
  • Infrastructure Investment & Community Choices:
    Becky Bunnell discussed Fairfield’s current use of ARPA funds to strengthen key infrastructure, such as the wastewater treatment plant. But she also stressed the importance of public dialogue:  “We must decide as a community—do we build to minimum standards, or do we go beyond to protect future generations?”

Leadership Through Action

Senator Hwang closed the forum by calling for sustained, bipartisan action to address the climate crisis head-on:  “This isn’t just about Fairfield. Every town, every state on the coastline must take climate change seriously. The choice is clear: do nothing and suffer the consequences—or come together, invest smartly, and lead by example. Resiliency and sustainability are not just policies—they are commitments to our community and our future.”

As Erin gathers strength in the Atlantic, Fairfield’s forum served as a timely reminder that the fight against climate change begins with informed leadership and engaged citizens.

Fairfield Community Support for Little League Championship

Fairfield, CT – State Senator Tony Hwang, representing Fairfield, joined Fairfield National Little League President Diego De Leon in rallying the community ahead of the team’s championship game.

De Leon praised the remarkable community support, noting that it starts right here in town and has been “nothing short of magnificent.” The excitement is being felt across Fairfield and on social media as the team prepares to face Smithtown, Long Island, in a winner-take-all championship matchup.

Fairfield previously lost to Smithtown on Monday but came back strong, defeating New Jersey in a must-win game Wednesday night to earn a rematch. “Anything can happen in a one-game playoff,” De Leon said. “The work these boys have put in is the real difference-maker, and it shows in their exceptional defense. Our center fielder’s incredible catch even made ESPN’s SportsCenter Top Plays. This group has such a close-knit bond—please come out and support them.”

Both Hwang and De Leon emphasized that this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the players, one they’ll remember for decades. Fans are encouraged to attend the championship game at the Agamani Learning Center on Mix Avenue in Bristol, just past ESPN. Parking may be limited, so early arrival is recommended.

“Win or lose, these boys and our community are champions,” said Senator Hwang. “When you come and support these kids and feel that energy, it’ll be a huge factor for Fairfield—and for Connecticut. Let’s go Fairfield! Let’s go Connecticut!”

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