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To the Editor:
With great enthusiasm, I am happy to endorse current Town Plan & Zoning (TPZ) Commissioners, Kathryn Braun and Alexis Harrison for re-election. I’ve had the opportunity to serve with both Kathryn and Alexis and have known both for many years.
In my 26 years of public service, I’ve been fortunate to serve on three elected boards in Fairfield – the Representative Town Meeting, the Board of Finance, and, for the last ten years, the TPZ. I’ve learned that decisions rendered by the TPZ impact everyone and everything. Having a master’s degree in urban planning, I believe that the TPZ needs commissioners dedicated to in-depth, thoughtful and comprehensive review of plans and applications.
Both Kathryn and Alexis ask important questions when it comes to development applications to ensure that the commission is well informed. They do their research. They both work hard to get all the information and put the best interests of Fairfield first in their decisions.
In this age of development pressure and climate change, sea level rise, and flooding, I’ve been impressed with their commitment to balancing the need for responsible development to support our tax base with environmental protection. Both Alexis and Kathryn carefully consider the need for more affordable and senior housing, strong economic development, maintaining property values, quality of life and infrastructure needs of our Town.
They also routinely speak with neighborhood groups to educate the public on planning and zoning concepts and procedures and how the law affects zoning and planning. They truly bring zoning to the people.
As I complete my term on the TPZ, if Kathryn and Alexis are re-elected, I will leave this commission in capable hands. I hope you will join me in supporting them.
Meg Francis
Fairfield Town Plan & Zoning Commissioner