Fairfield Hills Authority Reviews Campus Security, Advances Building Hardening Plans

NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Fairfield Hills Authority reviewed campus security concerns, advanced plans to secure vacant buildings, and agreed on changes to a parking-area improvement project during a special meeting held Feb. 2.

Members unanimously approved the minutes of the Dec. 15, 2025, meeting at the outset of the session.

Newtown Police Chief David Kullgren presented a 2025 activity report for the Fairfield Hills campus, reporting 28 calls for service during the year, including incidents of trespassing, vandalism, suspicious activity and parking violations. Five summonses were issued in two incidents involving trespass and criminal mischief. Kullgren said officers respond to all calls for service and regularly patrol the campus but recommended that the town further secure vacant buildings to reduce incidents.

Authority members discussed potential security measures, including cameras and physical barriers to prevent vehicles from parking on grass areas. Anthony Filiato asked whether parking on grass could be enforced; Kullgren said there is no enforcement mechanism. Deputy Chief Bryan Bishop noted that designated parking areas could not be enforced by police but could be managed through a towing contractor if appropriate signage were installed.

Facilities and Project Manager Sean Heslin outlined a two-phase plan to harden vacant buildings on the Fairfield Hills campus, beginning with Shelton House and Kent House. The work will be performed by Belfor Property Restoration through a consortium contract and will be awarded on a time-and-materials basis. Phase I focuses on building security, while Phase II addresses weatherproofing and foundation mitigation. Heslin said the project was developed based on insurance recommendations and interest from a potential developer.

Heslin told the Authority that capital improvement funds allocated for campus building security and maintenance must be fully applied to the project to ensure completion. He also said town staff will conduct periodic checks and post public notices warning of hazardous conditions at vacant buildings. Chair Ross Carley said securing the buildings is a priority.

Town Engineer John Curtis presented an update on a planned paver parking project, recommending a new location to better serve Newtown Youth Academy events and nearby baseball fields. Because the revised area is larger, grant funding will not cover the previously selected paver option. Curtis recommended using a True Grid system, which allows parking spaces to be outlined with grass or stone. Members agreed on key design elements, including curbing and reducing the size of an interior island to preserve existing trees, and emphasized the importance of plowing the area so it can function as regular parking.

In his report, Carley said another lease contract review was scheduled later in the week, with a draft expected to come before the Authority. Newtown Community Center Director Matt Ariniello said he will present a proposal at the Authority’s February regular meeting to add a basketball court to the campus playscape, funded by a private donation.

The meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m.