To the Editor:
Monday evening’s Representative Town Meeting (RTM) in Fairfield was a stark reminder of what happens when one party holds unchecked power. The Democratic supermajority pushed through an ordinance that effectively allows speed cameras to eventually be placed throughout town. Every Republican amendment to limit the usage of cameras to school zones and pedestrian safety zones was rejected.
In the days leading up to the meeting, we heard from numerous residents expressing both support and concern – clear signs of a divisive issue. Many in the Republican caucus, including myself, shared the concerns and decided to approach the meeting with common sense and compromise in mind. But there was none of that – only the will of the majority was imposed without serious consideration for alternative perspectives.
While concerns around traffic cameras were the latest issue to fall on deaf ears, this has been a recurring theme throughout my nearly 2 years on the RTM. What happens in a supermajority?
• No need for serious debate or discussion. With a 31-9 majority, differing opinions are easily dismissed.
• Residents’ voices are sidelined. Even when residents express concerns, their views are shrugged off if they don’t align with the majority’s agenda.
• Policies lack balance. Instead of crafting solutions that reflect diverse viewpoints, decisions are made unilaterally.
I am not here to debate whether speed cameras are good or bad – I see both sides and respect my fellow representatives’ opinions. Rather I am raising concerns about governance and ensuring that all perspectives are considered.
A healthy democracy thrives on:
• Compromise. I believe most of us expect our town government to find middle ground instead of imposing one-sided solutions.
• Accountability. While we did hear from many residents via email on the traffic cameras, there was little public participation during the meeting, which means leaders don’t have to justify their decisions.
• Representation for all. Policies should reflect the needs of the entire community, not just those in power.
Fairfield residents must ask themselves: Do we want a government that listens to all perspectives? If we value common sense, balance, and cooperation, we must restore political competition to our local government. Without it, Fairfield risks becoming a town where one-party rule dictates policy, leaving dissenting voices out in the cold.
Collin Colburn
Fairfield, CT
Colburn serves as Fairfield RTM Representative, District 8