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Home > Fairfield News

Town of Fairfield News

3/12/2021 - 3.12 TOWN UPDATE
Dear Fairfielders,

BUDGET: 

On Monday, my Fiscal Year 2021-2022 proposed budget passed the Board of Selectmen. Last night, I presented my budget and reorganization plan for our Town government before the Board of Finance (BOF). The Board of Finance will continue to hold budget hearings over the next month. You can view last night's meeting here, and the BOF budget hearings/deliberations schedule can be found here.

If you'd like to take a look at my budget presentation, reorganization slides, or full budget you can click on the links below.

Following the Board of Finance vote at the end of March, the budget will go before the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) for review and a final vote. 

FILL PILE:
While my administration and I have been hard at work putting together and presenting my Fiscal Year 2021-2022 proposed budget, the fill pile continues to be an important issue that requires my attention. This is an ongoing challenge for our community and my administration as we continue to work with the regulating agencies. To keep my commitment of transparent communication, I am providing this latest update. 

Fill Pile/Reclamation Yard
I am pleased to report that our Licensed Environmental Protection (LEP), Weston & Sampson, has completed the second round of testing at the fill pile/reclamation yard site last week and are analyzing the test results. I will provide more information when those results are completed. In response to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection's (DEEP) Notice of Violation, our LEP will develop a draft remediation plan for the Town's consideration. After I have reviewed the plan, it will then be submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and DEEP for their approval. Once we have the regulatory approval, we can began site remediation efforts. We cannot continue with remediation efforts until we have all final approvals, which have been delayed due to COVID-19. When the LEP's testing analysis is complete, I will post the data on the fill pile website. 

Additional Remediation Sites
We have completed negotiations on the Consent Order with the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) for our remediation sites. This order establishes the ground rules, under which the Town will be able to finally move forward, with testing and cleanup of sites where fill pile/reclamation yard materials were illegally placed. The final testing of materials at some of the sites has commenced (to determine the proper disposal method); final testing at the remaining sites will follow. We expect sign-off of remediation plans to begin before the summer, assuming no additional contaminants are found.
 
Waste Water Treatment Plant Hardening Project
This project provides a water tight wall surrounding the waste water treatment plant (which processes all the Town’s waste water and sewage) and other buildings nearby to “protect” the site and enable the plant to continue operations in the event of a storm/flood event. This is a major project for our Town and is about three quarters towards completion. During my last update on the waste water project, I shared with residents that contaminants were discovered at the site while work was being done. It was determined the contaminants were historical in nature and not related to the fill pile, but nonetheless must be removed and remediated. The project work is expected to be completed this Spring. 

Related Litigation
As previously reported, the Town is aggressively pursuing its legal claims, in court, against the LEP hired under the prior administration (Osprey Environmental). The Town’s lawsuit is separate from the pending criminal proceedings by the State’s Attorney Office.  Additionally, the Town has identified, and will continue to do so, third parties who arranged for the illegal dumping of hazardous materials at the fill pile/reclamation yard site. The Town has brought an action in Federal court against those entities to recover any associated costs incurred to address the environmental contamination. 
 
My administration will continue to work diligently to resolve all of the Town’s outstanding contamination issues, in collaboration with the EPA and DEEP. I will share any updates with our community as they become available. 

I hope you have a safe and enjoyable weekend.


Brenda L. Kupchick
Fairfield First Selectwoman
COVID-19 UPDATE:
 
For the most up-to-date information from the State of Connecticut on COVID-19, residents can visit ct.gov/coronavirus. You can also subscribe to text message alerts from the state by texting the keyword COVIDCT to 888-777.
On Wednesday, I  was excited to speak at the grand opening of St. Vincent's Medical Center in partnership with Hartford Healthcare's new vaccine clinic on Sacred Heart University's West Campus. As a member of the 55+ eligible group, I was grateful to receive my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. In addition to our amazing Fairfield Department of Health's vaccine clinic, this additional clinic in our Town will go a long way in helping get more shots in the arms of Connecticut residents.
 
CDC's Guidance for Fully Vaccinated Individuals:


Individuals are considered fully vaccinated for COVID-19 = 2 weeks after they have received the second dose in a 2-dose series (Pfizer or Moderna), or = 2 weeks after they have received a single-dose vaccine (Johnson & Johnson).

Fully vaccinated people can:
- Visit with other fully vaccinated people indoors without wearing a mask or physical distancing.
- Visit with unvaccinated people from a single household who are at low risk for severe COVID-19 disease indoors without wearing a mask or physical distancing.
- Refrain from quarantine and testing following a known exposure if asymptomatic.

For full guidance, please visit:
 https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated-guidance.html
Sector Rules:

Thursday, March 4th, Governor Lamont announced the following changes and schedule to Sector Rules, regarding COVID-19.


Protocols that will remain in effect until further notice include:


*See note on Fairfield's libraries reopening in the library section below.

Beginning Friday, March 19, 2021:



Beginning Monday, March 29, 2021:
  • Capacity limits on early childhood classes will increase from 16 to 20
Beginning Friday, April 2, 2021:

    Vaccine Information: 

    As of the end of today, the Fairfield Health Department administered 12,870 vaccines to those eligible and the department has an additional 3,548 appointments scheduled over the next 4 weeks. We are proud to say that not one vaccine has been wasted or unused since the Health Department's clinics opened in January.

    The Fairfield Health Department's vaccine clinic continues to fill up their appointments. The department can only schedule as many appointments as vaccines are provided by the State. Please keep in mind Fairfield residents are able to book appointments at clinics throughout the State. 

    If you are having difficulty scheduling your appointment through VAMS, here are some links that may be helpful: VAMS Navigation Instructions and How to Create your VAMS Account and Schedule Your First Appointment
    • Yale New Haven Health - If your Doctor is affiliated with Yale New Haven Health you can create an appointment through MyChart
    • Hartford HealthCare - Hartford HealthCare is taking vaccination appointments for their locations at Sacred Heart University and St. Vincent's Hospital in Bridgeport. For more information, you can find it here
    • Stamford Hospital - You can check your eligibility and schedule an appointment with Stamford Hospital. For more information, please click here
    • Walgreens - There are limited Walgreens Pharmacies who are offering COVID-19 vaccinations throughout CT.  For more information and a list of their locations, please see their website. 
    • CVS - There are limited CVS Pharmacies who are offering COVID-19 vaccinations throughout CT. For more information and a list of their locations, please see their website

    Please be aware of two COVID-19 vaccine scams circulating. One scan is a phone call, email, or letter from a vaccine manufacturer (Pfizer, Johnson and Johnson, or Moderna) asking for:

    1. Social Security Number to help you get a vaccine appointment.
    You should NEVER give out your Social Security number for the vaccine.

         2. Offering cash rewards or gift cards in exchange for completing a survey. The survey asks for personal information, such as your date of birth and insurance information.
    The vaccine manufacturers will never contact you directly to gather information.

         For accurate and regularly updated information about the COVID Vaccine, please visit the Fairfield Health Department Vaccine update page: 
    https://www.fairfieldct.org/news/?FeedID=4155.


    Eligible residents for the COVID-19 vaccinations include:
    - Healthcare personnel 
    - Medical first responders
    - Long-term care facility residents
    - Residents and staff of select congregate settings
    - Individuals 55 and older
    - Educators/Staff in preK-12 and Childcare Providers

     Individuals in these groups are the only ones who should be scheduling appointments at this time.

    Phase 1a individuals include:
    * Healthcare Personnel: all paid and unpaid persons serving in healthcare settings who have potential for direct or indirect exposure to patients or infectious materials.
    * Long Term Care Facility Residents: adults who reside in facilities that provide a range of services, including medical and personal care, to persons who are unable to live independently.
    * First Responders at risk of exposure to COVID-19 through their responses to medical emergencies such as Emergency Medical Technicians, Police, and Fire.

    * Residents and Staff of select congregate settings: Staff and residents of halfway homes, inpatient mental health facilities, correction facilities, homeless shelters, domestic violence shelters, substance use and residential treatment facilities along with others.

    Educators and Childcare Providers:
    *Those who are Pre-K-12 Teachers, paraprofessionals, custodial staff, food service providers, school bus drivers, childcare providers ,as well as in-school administrative staff. Does not include individuals who are not required to work on-site in a school.

    Fairfield Health Department has already provided over 1,800 vaccination appointments to education/childcare staff with over 1,050 receiving their 1st dose this past week. While additional educator/childcare dedicated clinics will be offered when additional vaccine is received, those eligible can make appointments to be vaccinated at any available clinic in the state.


    Phase 1b individuals:
    *Those who are 55 years old.  Proof of age will be required at the clinic.
    *Residents and staff of select congregate settings.


    If you fall under Phase 1a, an Educator/Staff in preK-12, or a Childcare Provider, you should receive information from your employer or school administrators on how to register for vaccine appointments. For those in the Phase 1b category of 55 and older, you should complete the State form below:

    State Form - 55 & Older
    Vaccine Eligibility Schedule:

    Monday, February 22nd, Governor Lamont announced that the State will continue with an age-based approach to expanding eligibility to the vaccine. With this announcement, he released a schedule for age-based eligibility for the next several months. By laying out a clear timeline for eligibility for the vaccine, the strategy allows everyone in the State, including essential workers and those with chronic conditions, to know when they will be able to schedule an appointment. The planned schedule is as follows:
    • March 1, 2021: Expands to age group 55 to 64
    • March 22, 2021: Expands to age group 45 to 54
    • April 12, 2021: Expands to age group 35 to 44
    • May 3, 2021: Expands to age group 16 to 34

    In addition to the age-based eligibility, preK-12 school staff, teachers, and professional childcare providers became eligible to receive the vaccine starting March 1st. These individuals should receive information from their school administrators or employers on how to register for a vaccine appointment.

    If you want to check your eligibility, click on the blue button labeled  "CT Vaccination Phases & Eligibility" below:

    CT Vaccination Phases & Eligibility
    Fairfield's COVID-19 Vaccine Call Center at 203-256-3082. 
    If you are a Fairfield resident who is currently eligible but does not have the ability to schedule an appointment via the computer, you can call our COVID-19 Vaccination Call Center where a CERT volunteer will assist you in obtaining an appointment. The phone line is targeted to provide support and guidance for eligible vaccine recipients. The call center is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and voicemails will be returned when calls come in outside the operating hours.
                                                          
    The State Appointment Assistance Hotline is 1-877-918-2224 is available for assistance. Click here for the State Fact Sheet about the vaccine.

    We will continue to post the latest information on the Town website, and the social media pages for the Health Department, the Town of Fairfield and my office. For a full listing of those social media pages, click here
    Fairfield County COVID-19 Vaccine Survey: Fairfield County leaders are inviting community members to share their opinions about COVID-19 vaccines. By taking the COVID-19 Vaccine Survey, you’ll help us better understand the needs of our community during the pandemic and beyond. Please take a few minutes to complete the COVID-19 Vaccine Survey by clicking here.
    Town Data: The Town of Fairfield has had 4,276 cases to date, and 199 of Fairfield residents have sadly lost their lives. Charts and data on Fairfield cases, including daily & weekly changes, age, gender, nursing home statistics, testing results, different trends, and university statistics, can be found at www.fairfieldct.org/covid19data. The Health Department updates this page regularly.

    The Health Department also updates the COVID-19 School Data page, which details the school-related metrics and is updated each week as the State releases the data. The Fairfield Board of Education also has a dashboard on their homepage at https://www.fairfieldschools.org.
    Drive-Through Testing Location: Thanks to a partnership with Yale New Haven Health, Fairfield's drive-through COVID-19 testing location at 140 Mill Plain Road opened Monday, March 1.  The location will be open for testing seven days a week from 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM to all Connecticut residents and populations, including pre-procedure, asymptomatic, symptomatic, and healthcare workers. We are so excited what this testing site means for our Town in beating this virus!

    You can view a compilation of COVID-19 testing locations, including 140 Mill Plain Road, by clicking the "Testing Locations" button below.
    Testing Locations
    Dog's on Leashes: 

    After careful consideration, with the Town's Director of Health, I have decided to lift restrictions requiring all dogs remain on leashes at our open spaces effective immediately. The Rules and Regulations for Open Space Properties will be restored to their pre-pandemic limits. Specifically dogs will be allowed off-leash pursuant to Section 14 (e),  which requires all dogs to be kept under voice command or leash control at all times on open space areas and 14(f) All dogs shall be kept on leash if the animals are within 100 ft. of parking lots or picnic areas. Note: Effective April 1 dogs are not allowed on public beaches. Click here for a list of open spaces on page 11.
     
    Note: Pets that cannot be controlled by voice commands must be kept on leash.
     
    The decision to return to pre-pandemic rules and regulations is consistent with the State of CT Sector Rules and CDC guidance. State guidance allows low and moderate risk activities
     
    CDC Guidance (excerpted)
    • Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low.
    • Treat pets as you would other human family members – do not let pets interact with people outside the household.
    To read the rules and regulation in their entirety click here.
                                         FAIRFIELD TOWN GOVERNMENT

    Fire Department – The National Fire Protection Agency recommends that people change their smoke detectors twice a  year, when we change the clocks for daylight\ savings and back to standard time. With the daylight savings on Sunday, please prepare to change your smoke detector batteries.


    Police Department – Today, I had the pleasure to swear in two new officers alongside Police Chief Kalamaras, who are joining the Fairfield Police Department family. Please welcome and congratulate Fairfield's newest officers, Nicholas Ardizone and Cassandra Drogan!

                       



    Assessment Appeals –  February 19th was the last day for appeals to be filed at the Tax Assessor's office. Any resident who filed an appeal by the deadline will be granted a hearing by the Board of Assessment Appeals . Hearing notices were mailed to all appellants by March 1st, at least seven days prior to the hearingHearings began Tuesday, March 2, and will continue through the end of the month. For more detailed information on the next steps in the Appeals process, click the "Assessment Appeals Information" button below.

    Check back for updates and information posted at fairfieldct.org/taxassessor
    Assessment Appeals Information
    Community & Economic Development – Neighborhood Assistance Act (NAA):
    The Town of Fairfield, through its Office of Community & Economic Development, is soliciting program proposals from municipal agencies and community non-profit organizations for funding consideration under the State’s Neighborhood Assistance Act (NAA) program. This past year, Fairfield community groups raised roughly $52,000 in charitable contributions through the program.

    This program allows businesses to claim a State tax credit for cash contributions made to qualifying community programs conducted by tax exempt or municipal agencies.  For further information about the Neighborhood Assistance Act Program or to receive an application packet, please contact the Office of Community & Economic Development at (203) 256-3120 or visit the 
    DRS website. Businesses wishing to take advantage of this program in order to reduce their State tax liability may also contact this office for further information. All applications must be received by close of business on April 23, 2021 in order to be considered


    The Connecticut Metropolitan Council of Governments (MetroCOG):
    The Connecticut Metropolitan Council of Governments (MetroCOG) is requesting the public’s input on the state of the regional economy to help develop goals and objectives for the region's Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). The CEDS is designed to bring together the public and private sectors in the creation of an economic roadmap to diversify and strengthen the regional economy. There are two online surveys – one for residents and one for businesses. Please click on the appropriate links below to take the survey.
    Resident Survey
    Business Survey
    FAIRFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY

    The Fairfield Public Main Library is open for quick browsing and checkout Monday-Saturday afternoons 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm and Tuesday and Thursday evenings 5:00pm – 7:00pm. Learn more about Library Express service.

    Please visit fairfieldpubliclibrary.org for full details regarding Curbside Pickup at the Main Library and Woods Branch Library. Fairfield Public Library continues to offer 24/7 access to their digital collection of books, music, magazines, movies and databases. Visit the Library Event Calendar to find a wide and varied assortment of Virtual Programs.

    Governor Lamont’s March 19th Announcement.  At this time, capacity limits and building access modifications will remain in place at Fairfield Public Main Library and Woods Branch Library in order to meet CT State health and safety protocols.  Governor Lamont’s directive requires continued adherence to CT State protocols relating to face coverings, social distancing, and cleaning measures.

    Fairfield library service has been maintained throughout the pandemic, digitally/virtually/remotely/in-person. The planning and preparation to reopen our library buildings will continue to follow a phased rather than immediate approach.  We will move forward while balancing in-person Library Express Service, Curbside Borrowing, Homebound Services and Virtual Programming/Services.   Fairfield’s next phase will offer Library Express (in-person) hours at the Woods Branch beginning this month in coordination with the existing hours at the Main library.  

    As more of the public and staff become eligible for the vaccine and the COVID risk declines, in-person building access will expand.  Our priority is to sustain library services without becoming a source of viral spread in the community.   All plans follow CDC guidelines and are informed by best library industry practices, while managing our resources in the most efficient way.

    Updates are shared via our website, newsletter and social media.


    Fairfield Public Library is updating its Strategic Plan. Help us focus our services on what the community really needs and wants. Your opinion matters!  Link to survey: https://forms.gle/kJ61qBTZcWbt65R76

    Need a library card? Follow this link fairfieldpubliclibrary.org/my-fpl/library-cards/ and get started today!

    Sign up for the library newsletter
     here
    Fairfield Public Library and Community Video courtesy of A2V Media
    PEQUOT LIBRARY: WE'RE HERE, WE CARE 
    Pequot Library offers curbside pickup and limited browsing hours from 3-6pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays; and from 2-4pm on Saturdays. During browsing hours visit us to check out a book or view our display John James Audubon's Birds of America: A Return to Pequot Library, on view from February 4 - May 2.

    Outside of browsing hours, enjoy digital programs like story times, author talks, book clubs, and more! Get details on our website and social media:  FacebookInstagramTwitter, and YouTube. Sign up for Pequot Library's Digital Digest eNewsletter or contact our Chief Librarian for personalized book recommendations.
    LOCAL BUSINESS
     
    Ribbon Cutting: Wednesday, we welcomed Spring into Fairfield with the one year anniversary and ribbon cutting for Outdoor Design & Living and Fresh Flower Bar at 1301 Bronson Road. While Outdoor Design & Living, the full-service landscape design-and-build company with a nursery and retail businesses, and owner Chris Palmer, celebrate 3 years in business, the ribbon cutting commemorated one year in business with Fresh Flower Bar and CEO/Founder Sarah O'Brien. Fresh Flower Bar provides a unique flower experience and always carries the freshest and most compelling blooms available in Connecticut. Fresh Flower Bar is a one-stop shop for flower arrangements, hand-tied bouquets, floral planning for weddings, events, and special occasions, as well as floral design classes. Thank you to the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce for organizing the ribbon cutting to celebrate this occasion. 
    (From Left to Right) Mark Barnhart, Fairfield's Director of Community and Economic Development; Laura Devlin, State Representative (R-134); Sarah O'Brien and daughter, Founder/CEO of Fresh Flower Bar; Brenda Kupchick, First Selectwoman; Chris Palmer, owner of Outdoor Design & Living; Beverly Balaz, Fairfield Chamber of Commerce President.

    Photography by Mike Lauterborn, Fairfield HameltHub.
    Grand Opening: For all the pup lovers, myself included, I was excited to be a part of the ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly opened  Puppy Love Spa and Boutique on 1125 Post Road. Puppy Love is a new dog Spa and Boutique providing 1:1 grooming services by appointment only. Grooming appointments are available 7 days AND nights a week. This loving and caring environment is crate free and parents are always welcome to watch in their lovely waiting room. Owner Nicole is firm that safety is her top priority, with an extra keen focus on all Covid-19 safety precautions. I hope you will stop by, visit and welcome her to our community.
    Beverly Balaz, Fairfield Chamber of Commerce President; Nicole, Owner of Puppy Love: Spa & Boutique; Brenda Kupchick, First Selectwoman; Cristin McCarthy-Vahey, State Representative (D-133); Jennifer Leeper, State Representative (D-132); 

    Photos taken by Milena Cerqueria Photography.

    LOVE LOCAL E-GIFT CARD PROGRAM 

    I hope you'll continue to support our local businesses through the Town of Fairfield and the Chamber of Commerce's buy local initiative with the Fairfield Community e-Gift Card program, which is exclusive to Fairfield businesses only. This is a great gift for Fairfield  residents for both holidays and special occasions. More information can be found here.

                                 

    Elderly and Disabled Homeowners Program Update: 
    The Governor recently issued Executive Order 
    10, which includes a provision to eliminate the refiling requirement for those applicants due to refile this year. 

    If you are due to refile this year, you will not need to reapply and your benefits will continue at the same level. The Tax Assessor's office should have sent you a postcard to confirm this the week of February 8th.

    If you are seeking the benefit for the first time, you will need to apply, please contact the 
    Tax Assessor's office at 203-256-3110 and the office will work with you on the process. 

    The Executive Order did not extend the final date to apply by May 14, 2021. If you cannot apply by this date you will need to request an extension from the Office of Policy and Management by August 13, 2021.The Tax Assessor's office will be able to provide residents the instructions on how to request an extension.

    For more information, visit here
    fairfieldct.org/taxrelief
    WINTER WEATHER 
    Resident Snow Shoveling: Per Town ordinance, Fairfield property owners are responsible for removing snow and ice from the sidewalk along their property line within 24 hours after the storm and keeping the sidewalk clear of snow and ice. Heavily used sidewalks near schools and public buildings, and the commercial areas are particularly important. Property owners may be fined and/or charged the cost of removal if the property owners do not comply.

    I have received calls from residents concerned about sidewalks that are not shoveled. In many instances, those sidewalks are in front of elderly or disabled resident's homes. The Town will continue to do our best to remind residents of their responsibility while taking into consideration that it may not always be possible for all residents to shovel within the 24 hour time period. 


    If you have snow removal concerns or would like to request a street be re-plowed, please enter a Citizen Service Request and select 'Snow Removal Issues' or call the Town Garage at 203-256-3177. For more information on Fairfield plowing and snow removal policies, click here

    It is also 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 $120 fine. 
    TREES IN WIRES

    If a tree is in contact or close proximity to wires.  What do you do?

    United Illuminating is responsible for clearing trees or limbs in wires. Please contact United Illuminating at: 1-800-722-5584.

    Please have the following information available:

    • Your contact information
    • Address of tree problem
    • Cross street
    • Landmark
    • Pole number
    2021 BEACH STICKERS
    The 2020 Beach/ Transfer Station Sticker expired 12/31/20. Don't wait to buy your 2021 Sticker.  RENEW your sticker online for 2021. You can also renew by fax, mail or in person at Parks & Recreation.
    FAIRFIELD PARKS & RECREACTION 2021 SPRING BROCHURE
    Check out some of the programs and events coming up this Spring...HERE! 
    BEACH BUNNY 5K: A Virtual Event 
    March 27, 20121-April 3, 2021. Registration opens 1/1/21, More information can be found
     here.
    STRATFIELD VILLAGE ASSOCIATION BRICK CAMPAIGN
    The Stratfield Village Association (SVA) is a certified 501 c3 non-profit organization, which aims to preserve, protect and improve the character of the Stratfield Village neighborhood in Fairfield. On January 13th they announced the launch of a brick fundraising campaign to supplement funding to the Four Corners renovation project. Individuals and businesses will be able to purchase a brick with a customized engraving to be included in the new brick sidewalks that are part of the project. There are a limited number of bricks available because of space constraints.
     
    The SVA’s personalized sales page is at 
    bricksrus.com/donorsite/stratfieldvillageassociation. Bricks can be purchased in two sizes – 4”x 8” for $100 with up to three lines of text, or 8”x 8” for $200 with up to 6 lines of text. Lastly, a corporate sponsor may purchase an 8”x 8” brick with 3 lines of text and include a company logo.
     
    The SVA has raised $910,925 of its $1 million goal for the project to date.
    TAX DEFERMENT
    Governor Lamont’s recently signed Executive Order No. 9R which allows towns to again offer deferment for property tax payments.  The new Executive Order allows towns to offer deferment for taxes due January 1. The extension will be for a total of 90 days, (an additional 60 days beyond the normal grace period). The revised due date is April 1.  Anyone who fails to pay by the new April 1 deadline would have to pay three months of interest added along with his or her existing bill. Escrow accounts are still ineligible for deferment. For more information and eligibility for commercial landlords, visit fairfieldct.org/taxcollector.  Please be advised that People’s Bank is unable to accept payments at their branch location for this deferment during the 60 day extension of February 2nd to April 1st.  We apologize for any inconvenience.   

                            
     

    BUSINESSESS

    Connecticut Business Day 2021: Tuesday, March 16th
    Join hundreds of your fellow business leaders via Zoom Tuesday, March 16 for Connecticut Business Day 2021.

    Your voice matters—this is your opportunity to share your concerns and challenges with state legislators and help improve the state’s business climate and competitiveness.

    To read more about Connecticut Business Day 2021 and register click 
    here.

    Paycheck Protection Program (PPP):

    On Monday, February 22, the White House announced targeted changes to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) that will provide minority-owned businesses, “mom-and-pop” businesses, and very small nonprofits with access to the support they need.

    Click here to read the announcement and learn more about the steps that are being taken to promote equitable access to this important program. The SBA website also includes tools to help you get matched with a lender or find lenders in your area.
     

    Unless the federal government extends the deadline, the PPP will expire on March 31, 2021.
     

    The Fairfield Chamber of Commerce office is also open. You can reach them at 203.255.1011 or by emailing beverly@fairfieldctchamber.com.

    BLACK ROCK CHURCH HOT MEAL DRIVE-THRU
    Black Rock Church will resume its Hot Meal Drive-thru beginning Tuesday, January 12. Each Tuesday through March, between 5:00 - 5:30 PM, individuals and families can receive up to six hot meals for their families, along with a bag of groceries for the rest of the week. Reservations are not required, and the dinners and groceries are free. Black Rock Church is located at 3685 Black Rock Turnpike in Fairfield. For more information please call the church at 203-255-3401.
    GET INVOLVED! TOWN BOARD AND COMMISSION VACANCIES
    Interested in giving back to our community?  Want to have a voice in shaping Fairfield?  The Town relies on the hard work of citizen volunteers who are appointed to provide guidance and governance on various Boards and Commissions.  The list of vacancies for Boards and Commissions are on the Town Website.  Be sure to check back often as the list is updated as positions become available.  https://fairfieldct.org/vacancies

    You can also visit our Boards and Commissions page to learn more about roles and responsibilities:  https://fairfieldct.org/boards

    To learn about the application process click here: https://fairfieldct.org/appointmentprocess
    EMERGENCY ALERTS | WHEN IT MATTERS MOST 

    Get alerted about emergencies and other important community news from the Town of Fairfield, CT by signing up for the Fairfield Alert system. This system enables us to quickly provide you with critical information in a variety of situations, such as severe weather, unexpected road closures, missing persons, evacuations of buildings or neighborhoods and other emergency situations.

    You will receive time-sensitive messages wherever you specify, such as your home, mobile or business phones, email address, text messages and more. You pick where, you pick how!

    If you were previously registered with us on the CodeRed system, you must sign-up again by following the instructions belowin order to continue receiving Emergency and Community alerts from the Town of Fairfield.

    How to sign up? Click here.

    FEELING IN CRISIS?
    When you're feeling overwhelmed, know that there are free options to help you talk through your crisis--and to send help when necessary. Fairfield Social Services is here to help. Call 203-256-3170 for more information.
     
    Being a parent or caregiver during COVID can be extremely stressful. It is perfectly normal to be experiencing varying emotions and feel overwhelmed. No matter what you're feeling, we're here to listen.  Parents and caregivers can call the toll-free Talk It Out line to discuss their feelings in a judgement-free environment. Call: 1-833-258-5011 or Visit:
     www.talkitoutct.com 
     
    Resources for Mental Health:
    If you or a loved one is struggling:
    CT Information Hotline 211 or go to www.211ct.org for mobile crisis support for individuals and/or children.
    The Hub CT is Southwest Connecticut’s Regional Behavioral Health Action Organization. Check their website for useful resources for mental health, prevention and wellness.  https://www.thehubct.org/
    Mental Health Crisis Text Line - Text “SHARE” to 741741
    National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:  800-273-TALK (8255)
    Kids in Crisis also has a 24-hour hotline for assistance 203-661-1911. 
    NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Health):If you need to talk to someone, text NAMI to 741741 or call the NAMI Helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
    Alcoholics Anonymous - Please contact your site to see if meetings are continuing in your neighborhood. 

    Bridgeport Hospital’s REACH Program is an intensive outpatient program (IOP) for children, adolescents, adults and seniors.  REACH is accessible to anyone, and covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most commercial insurance programs.  Please 
    click this link to learn more about the extensive range of treatment options available

    Help for Domestic Violence Victims
    The Center for Family Justice has hotline numbers to those who are in crisis and need our free and confidential services. 

    The hotline numbers are:
    Domestic Violence: 203-384-9559
    Sexual Violence: 203-333-2233

    BIGELOW CENTER AND SOCIAL SERVICES:
    Transportation services to medical appointments and shopping have been suspended. We are reassessing to see if it's safe to allow passengers on the buses, given the pandemic. If you are unable to get to the market, the Mobile Food Pantry is available every other week and lunch delivery is available for those who are homebound. Please call Social Services for more information about the Mobile Food Pantry or Dial-a-Ride services through Greater Bridgeport Transit: 203-256-3170.
     
    Our Snow Shoveling for Seniors program is not accepting registrations at this time for residents who need assistance. When we have volunteers for shoveling, we will let you know how to register. If you are a student and would like to volunteer to shovel snow for seniors and people with disabilities, please contact Social Services by calling 203-256-3170 or sending an email to
     socialservices@fairfieldct.org.
    NEW INTERNET PROVIDER
    GoNetspeed has announced their intention to expand to Fairfield in the first half of 2021. This is welcome news for residents who have struggled with internet interruptions. You can read more informatiohere. 
    FAIRFIELD PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

    What’s your story? What’s your reason?  
    DO YOUR PART...Wear a mask!

    APPLY FOR ENERGY ASSISTANCE 
    The Connecticut Energy Assistance Program is for families in need of energy assistance, Fairfield Social Services coordinates with Alliance For Community Empowerment to help to obtain necessary energy services for Fairfield residents in need. To make an appointment to see if you’re eligible, or if you have questions, please call Social Services 203-256-3170.
    FAIRFIELD BICYCLE & PEDESTRIAN COMMITTEE: 
    The Town of Fairfield Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee has been working to encourage walking and biking for transportation, recreation, exercise and quality of life.

    Working with multiple town departments we have established
     bicycle routesinstalled bicycle repair stationsworked to improve pedestrian infrastructure, and authored the Town of Fairfield Complete Streets Policy (approved by the Board of Selectman in 2018).

    With more and more of our citizens using our roads, we would like to provide you with some important safety reminders for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers. View the document here.
    TOWN GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
    Sullivan Independence Hall and Old Town Hall are open to the public by appointment only for the safety of employees and residents. Please visit this summary page for an overview and follow links to specific departments for more information. 
    Fairfield's Operations During COVID-19
    Help is available to Fairfield small businesses that are struggling due to the pandemic.  The Fairfield COVID-19 Small Business Assistance Program was established to provide limited, one time direct financial assistance to eligible Fairfield small businesses that have no more than five full-time employees and that have been adversely affected by the public health emergency. Applications are still being accepted by the Office of Community & Economic Development. To learn more or to apply, please visit the website: www.fairfieldct.org/covidsbr.
    Eligibility & Application
    The Fairfield COVID-19 Relief Fund was established to provide limited, one-time assistance to Fairfield residents who have been adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Use of the funds must be directly related to the effects of the virus. Donate to the fund or apply for relief by clicking below.
    Donate or Apply to the Fairfield COVID-19 Relief Fund
    COVID CONTACT TRACING
    One of the key tools we have to contain the spread of COVID-19 is Contact Tracing. For this initiative to be successful, the Health Department needs the cooperation of residents who test positive for COVID-19. Both Universities were trained and assisted by our Health Department to manage their own contact tracing for their respective campuses.

    The primary purpose of contact tracing is to identify and notify direct contacts of confirmed cases as quickly as possible and to ensure those exposed are self-quarantining. The information provided in the interviews with confirmed cases helps reduce the potential spread of the virus in our community.


    Any Fairfield resident who tests positive for COVID-19 and has not received a phone call from the Fairfield Health Department or the Connecticut COVID Tracing system within 24 hours of receiving their result is urged to contact the Fairfield Health Department at 203-256-3022. Calls received after hours or on weekends, will be returned by the next business day.
    When to Isolate & Quarantine
    OPERATION HOPE FOOD PANTRY 
    Operation Hope wants to make sure residents of Fairfield are aware that the food pantry remains open and is ready to help by providing food and other basic needs to community residents, as they have for nearly 35 years. 

    Hours of Operation: Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 10:00-12:00; Thursday from 4:00 -6:00. Visit 
    operationhopect.org.

    Important COVID-19 Links:

    Fairfield Health Department coronavirus website:  fairfieldct.org/covid19

    For the latest numbers of cases, deaths and those recovered click here

    For additional data and graphs of activity click here

    For guidance and updates on Connecticut’s coronavirus preparedness efforts, visit: ct.gov/coronavirus

    Contact Information:

    For general questions you can call 211

    Hartford HealthCare’s COVID-19 Clinical Command Center hotline, staffed by healthcare professionals, is now available to the community. To reach the 24-hour hotline, call 860.972.8100 or (toll-free) 833.621.0600.

    YNHH has a call center number it’s 1-833-ASK YNHH that’s open from 7am - 7pm.
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    Contact Us

    Old Town Hall (Directions)
    611 Old Post Road
    Fairfield, CT 06824

    Sullivan Independence Hall
    725 Old Post Road
    Fairfield, CT 06824

    203-256-3000
    Find additional contact info here