To the Editor:

I was one of ten members of the Fairfield Hills Master Plan Review Committee.

Our key recommendations (see final report to BOS dated 7/19/19) related to housing on the Fairfield Hills campus included:

1. A supported uses change to allow commercial proposals that include a housing component provided that the proposal is for no more than two existing buildings and that the commercial component is consistent with the vision of the property; and

2. That buildings with no potential re-use be razed as soon as possible.

I walk/run the trails at Fairfield Hills and see the deteriorated state of the buildings, the torn safety fencing surrounding some buildings and imagine a tragic accident occurring to some curious young person.

This public safety issue is real and a town liability. If you do not believe me, then ask any police officer in town that patrols (car or bicycle) the Fairfield Hills campus.

If you still have any doubts, then search YouTube for “Exploring Fairfield Hills with Mr Chow 7/22/20.” [Editor’s Note: Graphics and wording shown on graffiti-covered walls within abandoned buildings may be offensive to some.] You will be amazed and troubled [by] what recently happened on a sunny day at Fairfield Hills.

Kicking the can down the road will lead to a deeper state of decay to these buildings, even higher future demolition cost, and continued risk to public safety.

Vote “Yes” on November 3 for the renovation of buildings for commercial apartments at Fairfield Hills and help make Fairfield Hills a safer place for all.

Gary MacRae

89 Boggs Hill Road, Newtown October 2, 2020