Patch Candidate Profile: Gerry Alessi, Town Plan & Zoning Commission

FAIRFIELD, CT — Election Day is approaching fast, and a number of key positions in Fairfield will be on the ballot, including Board of Selectman, Board of Education, Board of Finance, RTM and others.

To help readers make an informed decision on Nov. 7, Fairfield Patch has reached out to local candidates to share their views on various topics of importance in town.

Patch will post these candidate profiles over the next few weeks, so check back often to see the latest.

Name

Gerry Alessi

How old will you be as of Election Day?

55

Does your campaign have a website? If so, include the URL here.

https://www.fairfieldrtc.com/tpz-candidates

What city or town do you live in?

Fairfield

What office are you seeking?

TPZ 4-year Term

Please give us your party affiliation.

Republican

Education.

Manhattan College

What is your occupation?

President and Owner of a National Distribution Company

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

Married with 2 daughters that have gone through the Fairfield School District. Today 1 is a D.P.T. and the other is in her 2nd year of BC Law

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

Former Vice Chairman of the Fairfield Town Plan and Zoning Commission

Former Commissioner of the WPCA

Current Commissioner of Fairfield Conservation Commission

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I want to preserve Fairfield's character. I plan to support responsible development and initiatives that encourage economic growth, public safety, and innovation within our town while still maintaining the charm that makes Fairfield unique. As a current member of the Conservation Commission, I’m an advocate for environmental conservation. I believe in protecting the town's open spaces, and waterfront areas through sustainable zoning practices. I strongly believe in community representation and seek to be a voice for residents making certain their concerns and aspirations are considered in zoning decisions. As a long-time resident, I want to help preserve our quality of life, by shaping zoning policies that improve amenities, transportation, and public spaces.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is \_\_\_, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The negative consequences of excessive and predatory overdevelopment are evident in the unnecessary stresses it imposes on our daily lives here in Fairfield. I intend to be a voice for the residents against overdevelopment.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

During my seven years of service on this commission, I successfully increased the grand list through strategic, targeted development. I have prior experience in updating a POCD (Plan of Conservation and Development). Additionally, I've effectively prevented a marijuana dispensary from opening within 100 feet of an elementary school bus stop and ensured the safety of daycare centers against unforeseen traffic accidents. I bring extensive experience to the table.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

Nobody fails when volunteering their time to the community. We just bring different levels of knowledge and experience.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

I am committed to being a strong advocate against the detrimental 830-g applications that are negatively impacting our town, ensuring that development occurs in a way that upholds the quality of life our residents rightfully deserve. I also bring a wealth of knowledge from my experience as a member of the Conservation Commission and will be an advocate for preserving our natural resources.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

My seven-year tenure on the TPZ commission demonstrates my dedication and capability. While people may have differing opinions about zoning decisions, I've consistently applied common sense and prioritized the well-being of our residents when making them. I also have experience serving on the Water Pollution Control Authority and therefore understand our sewer infrastructure capabilities, which is a critical component of development.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Have confidence in yourself.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I lived in Fairfield for 25 years, it’s where I’ve made countless friends, and raised my children, and it holds a special place in my heart. I can’t imagine living anywhere else. I’m dedicated to safeguarding our community and to helping it continue to flourish.