Newtown EDC Reviews Fairfield Hills, Batchelder Projects

NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Economic Development Commission unanimously approved its Jan. 20 meeting minutes and deferred officer elections during its Feb. 17 meeting, while receiving updates on Fairfield Hills redevelopment efforts, brownfield grants and marketing initiatives.

The meeting was held at the Newtown Municipal Center, 3 Primrose St. and called to order at 7 p.m.
Mike Kondracki moved to approve the Jan. 20, 2026 minutes, and Jill Soderholm seconded the motion. The motion passed, with Bryan Atherton abstaining.

Vice Chair Fran Pennarola recommended deferring officer elections until all commission seats are filled. With no opposition voiced, elections were postponed.

Commission Role And Land Inventory Discussion

Pennarola reviewed the commission’s powers and duties under the town charter, including maintaining an inventory of industrial, business and commercial land and overseeing the town’s Strategic Plan for Economic Development, last updated in 2023.

Pennarola said it would be useful to compile an inventory of town-owned parcels, noting that returning properties to the tax rolls could generate revenue. Kondracki offered to provide a list of available commercial properties, while Atherton said the Tax Assessor’s office maintains the most complete data.

Soderholm, who serves as a Planning and Zoning Commission alternate, said she could provide reports from that board to keep EDC members informed.

Fairfield Hills And Mixed-Use Project

Economic and Community Development Director John Voket reported that negotiations continue with WinnDevelopment regarding a proposed mixed-use project at Fairfield Hills. He said discussions have narrowed to two remaining points of divergence, including potential environmental liability.

Voket also reported that a final draft of the Fairfield Hills Traffic and Parking Study is scheduled for presentation to key stakeholders to gather feedback before finalization.

According to Voket’s staff report, environmental remediation work is underway on the Fairfield Hills duplex roof project under a $610,000 state Brownfields grant. A kickoff meeting and building walkthroughs were held Feb. 9, marking the start of the environmental phase.

Batchelder Property And Brownfields Grants

Voket updated the commission on assessment and redevelopment planning for the town-owned Batchelder property, including a $200,000 grant awarded in partnership with the Connecticut Brownfield Land Bank. He said additional Phase II environmental assessment work is nearing completion at 28 Glen Road, supported by a $70,000 NVCOG grant.

The site has been selected for participation in UConn’s Technical Assistance for Brownfields program for Spring 2026. A site visit is scheduled for March 2.

Commissioners noted there are currently no land-use restrictions on the Batchelder parcel. Voket said the proposed end use currently under discussion is green energy development, though other uses permitted under zoning could be considered.

Marketing, Partnerships And Events

Voket reported that the department continues to promote Newtown through press outreach and partnerships, including participation in AdvanceCT efforts to attract large-scale commercial projects.

He said the department recently supported a ribbon-cutting for New England’s first Nurse Next Door franchise operated by a Newtown-based health care professional.

The office also is working with regional partners, including Bethel and Ridgefield, to co-sponsor an upcoming economic outlook event featuring a representative from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

Voket said the department is supporting efforts to establish a state-designated Cultural District in Newtown, with the application process expected to conclude in early March.

Rail Trail And Safety Planning

Voket reported that an angel foundation has committed initial fundraising support for the proposed Newtown Rail Trail extension. Organizers also applied for a $165,000 state DEEP grant. Long-term plans include extending the trail from the Monroe town line toward Fairfield Hills.

He also referenced progress on the townwide Safe Streets initiative under the federal Safe Streets for All program. Newtown Police Chief David Kullgren will lead next steps related to project zones identified in the final traffic study.

The meeting adjourned at 8 p.m.