Council reviews goals, downtown plan progress and suggests PFAS‑related housing options

Fairfield Town Councilors spent significant time during the workshop portion of their July 8 meeting reviewing council goals and local planning priorities. The council reported progress on its 2025 goals, including advancement of the Downtown Plan and the creation of committees (Building Committee, Ice Arena Committee, Environmental Committee) to address specific needs.

Councilor Timothy Martin suggested engaging with local farmers who can no longer farm due to PFAS contamination to explore potential residential development options on unused land in Fairfield and Fairfield Center. Councilor Kevin Kitchin urged the council to consider incentives for businesses to purchase or lease buildings downtown and recommended updating the Land Use Ordinance to address properties considered community eyesores and improve appearances.

Councilor Stephanie Thibodeau noted that the Comprehensive Plan is due for review and suggested including regular plan review items on future agendas. Town Manager Flewelling clarified the Comprehensive Plan addresses Fairfield as a whole rather than focusing on a single neighborhood. The council directed staff to draft an updated goals document reflecting the meeting’s input and to seek public comment.