Fairfield County Residents to Decide on Key Charter Revisions

Residents of Fairfield County are preparing to vote on significant charter revisions this Election Day, scheduled for Tuesday. This election will address several key proposals that could shape local governance and services across towns and cities in the county.

Key Charter Revisions in Fairfield County

Among the important matters on the ballot are changes concerning civil service reform and public notice requirements. Voters across various towns will have the opportunity to influence local governance by casting their ballots on these critical issues.

Bethel: Eight Proposals Up for Vote

• Bethel, with a population of just over 20,000, has the highest number of proposals this season.
• Key revisions include raising the threshold for referendums on capital expenditures above $1 million.
• Additional changes propose lengthening the terms of the Selectmen from two to four years and adopting more inclusive language in the town charter.

Bridgeport: Charter Reform Initiatives

In Connecticut’s largest city, Bridgeport, voters will consider pivotal reforms. A significant proposal aims to transition city and town clerks to civil service positions starting in 2031. Other proposals include:

• Elimination of the Sheriff’s Office, with duties transferred to state marshals to mitigate potential liabilities.
• Strengthening the Ethics Commission by establishing a new municipal ethics office and enacting a formal code of ethics.

Fairfield: Seven Propositions on the Ballot

Fairfield is set to review seven proposals. Notably, one intends to require selectmen filling vacancies during the initial 18 months of their term to seek election for the remaining duration of that term. This proposal could affect First Selectman Christine Vitale, who succeeded Bill Gerber earlier this year. Other changes suggested include:

• Ceasing the publication of notices in local newspapers unless mandated by state laws.
• Enhancing the town’s legislative body, the Representative Town Meeting, with the authority to retain legal counsel.

Norwalk: Revising a Century-Old Charter

Norwalk residents may see their town charter revised for the first time in over 100 years. The proposed changes aim to reflect the city’s significant growth over recent decades. Key revisions in Norwalk include:

• Renaming the Common Council to the City Council.
• Tying councilmember compensation to a percentage of the mayor’s salary.
• Adjusting the terms of the mayor and city clerk to four years effective in 2029.

Trumbull: A Crucial Funding Decision

Trumbull voters face a singular yet contentious question: whether to allocate $27 million for a new senior/community center. First Selectman Vicki Tesoro advocates for the new facility, arguing it will deliver long-term value. Meanwhile, town Republicans raise concerns over costs, promoting a scaled-back design as an alternative. This decision marks a pivotal moment for the community’s future services.

As residents prepare to head to the polls, the results of these charter revisions will have a lasting impact on governance and community services across Fairfield County.