The Town Council of Fairfield, CT, held a meeting on May 1, 2025, where several key initiatives and events aimed at boosting local economic development were discussed. The meeting highlighted the upcoming "Shop and Stroll in the Spring" event, scheduled for the evening of May 1, which encourages residents to support local businesses. This year, the event features a partnership with RyBird and the Friends of the Fairfield Public Library, offering complimentary shopping bags filled with goodies to attendees.
In addition to local shopping initiatives, the council announced the celebration of Economic Development Week from May 12 to May 16. A notable event during this week is a fireside chat with Commissioner Dan O'Keefe from the Connecticut Economic Development Association, taking place on May 14 at Goodwin University in East Hartford. This event aims to engage the community in discussions about economic growth and development strategies.
The council also introduced a workshop on energy cost reduction, scheduled for May 13. This workshop will cover programs such as CPACE (Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy) and the Small Business Energy Efficiency Grant, both designed to assist small businesses and nonprofits in managing their energy expenses. The program will include free energy audits and assessments, providing participants with actionable recommendations to lower their energy costs without requiring upfront capital.
Furthermore, the council is set to commence the East Trunk Sewer replacement project, a significant infrastructure initiative valued at over $25 million, with $4 million funded through state grants. This long-awaited project aims to enhance the town's sewer system and improve overall public health and safety.
Overall, the meeting underscored Fairfield's commitment to fostering economic growth, supporting local businesses, and investing in essential infrastructure, all of which are crucial for the community's long-term sustainability and prosperity.