To The Editor:

In November 2020, Newtown’s voters narrowly approved a proposal that could permanently reshape the character of our town. The ballot question asked:

Shall the town of Newtown consider commercial proposals at the Fairfield Hills campus that include a housing component, provided that a housing component would be limited to no more than two of the existing buildings, and that the renovation is consistent with the architectural vision for the property?

Nearly five years later, First Selectman Jeff Capeci is engaged in closed-door discussions with WinnDevelopment to finalize a deal.

The effort is commendable. The execution is not.

Voters agreed to “mixed use” development that would include first floor retail paired with a limited number of apartments in two buildings.

The deal now taking shape includes: Just one building (Shelton); an option (but not a commitment) to develop the second building; and zero commercial component.

This is a clear departure from the original vision. Newtown acquired Fairfield Hills in 2004 to preserve it for public use — not to hand it over for private residential development. The modest commercial activity to date (like NewSylum) has added value for residents. But introducing full-time housing will inevitably strain town resources — schools, traffic, infrastructure, etc. Had voters been asked to approve a fully residential development, they would have rejected it — as they have in the past.

If private development is to proceed on this cherished community space, residents deserve meaningful benefits.

The First Selectman should secure: Demolition cost avoidance; tax revenue sufficient to ease the burden on current taxpayers; and tangible improvements to the campus (in cities like New York, developers are routinely required to enhance surrounding public areas).

The current negotiations have been conducted out of view — not just from the public, but from the Board of Selectmen and the Legislative Council.

What we do know is troubling: The proposed development is 100% residential — contrary to the mixed-use plan voters approved; estimated annual property tax revenue from the 50 apartments (and their cars) is around $100,000 — far too little to offset the financial burden that new residents place on the town’s schools, traffic, sewers, etc; a one-year lease on adjacent property with space sufficient to accommodate parking for 120 cars will yield just $3.50 per parking place per month with no potential increase for the next century; no campus improvements are included — not even a bandshell or basic repairs to the exterior of nearby buildings.

In his eagerness to notch a pre-election “win,” the First Selectman is negotiating with the finesse of a coupon clipper at a Sotheby’s auction.

Like many in Newtown, I support smart development. But smart development demands smart negotiating skills. WinnDevelopment negotiates dozens annually. Our First Selectman has been outmatched — and the result is a sweetheart arrangement that amounts to a giveaway.

These events underscore the importance of having a first selectman that listens to voters and brings extensive negotiating experience to the table. Bruce Walczak meets that standard. Jeff Capeci does not.

Arnie Berman

Sandy Hook