Fairfield RTM Passes Bipartisan Resolution Authorizing BOS to Enter into Agreement with CMDA

The following news release was written by Elizabeth Zezima, Democratic Caucus Leader for the Fairfield Representative Town Meeting:

FAIRFIELD, CT - During its July monthly meeting, the Fairfield Representative Town Meeting (RTM) voted to authorize the First Selectperson to potentially enter into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Connecticut Municipal Development Authority (CMDA). The bipartisan vote passed 29-5 and is the first step in the process of exploring whether or not the town joins the CMDA, a newly-created entity that partners with towns on careful planning of transit-oriented economic development, while providing grant funding.

“During our moratorium from 8-30g, Fairfield has the opportunity to take back local control of what we develop and where we develop as well as unlock funding to support already approved key projects in town and much needed infrastructure improvements,” said RTM Member Michelle McCabe (D-4). “It is up to us to use this time strategically and ensure that we work toward a path of careful development that supports our town’s quality of life, grows our grand list and addresses the needs of our community.”

The result of not being strategic over the years has restricted Fairfield’s control over development. By exploring a partnership with the CMDA, the town can better assess possible future development near public transportation hubs or downtown and unlock access to possible state grant funding. The town’s decision to potentially join the CMDA could help to alleviate concerns around haphazard planning or overdevelopment in certain areas of town, all while maintaining Fairfield’s local control over future planning proposals.

“The CMDA does not mandate zoning changes or conformity with any state zoning code and unlike developers who use 8-30g, the CMDA cannot override the TPZ, nor do they fund 8-30g proposals,” said RTM Majority Leader Liz Zezima. “Local government is preserved and the process by which projects are approved or denied is preserved. The decision to enact much needed zoning reform that would allow for the smaller scale development we want is preserved.”

The CMDA supports all types of housing and does not approach projects with a “one-size-fits-all” mandate. Each agreement with a municipality is individually designed to their own needs. The process is firmly grounded in existing land, infrastructure and zoning on a town by town basis. It supports all kinds of housing types – not just affordable–and can be used as a tool to actually enhance local control over the kind of development Fairfield wants.

The measure now heads to the Board of Selectmen to explore joining the CMDA before entering into a MOA. The public will continue to be invited to provide comments or ask questions throughout the process.

The resolution was co-sponsored by Democratic RTM member Michelle McCabe, District 4 and Republican RTM member Collin Colburn, District 8.