Gerber Argumentative Discussing New Department

Dear Fairfielders,

Your Voice is Making a Difference

Your questions about town operations and rising taxes have sparked important discussions over the past week. Thank you for speaking up about this important topic. 

During recent Board of Finance (BOF) and Board of Selectmen (BOS) meetings, First Selectman Gerber outlined plans for a new Capital Projects and Operations Department but did not provide formal presentations. According to the Town Charter, such changes require Board approval to ensure transparency and clarify financial impacts.

Is Gerber Following the Rules?

While denying formal restructuring, Mr. Gerber admitted to "virtual" changes, claiming roles were merely shuffled. However, evidence suggests otherwise:

• Since August 2024, the Capital Projects & Operations Department has appeared in the Town’s organizational structure (see phone directory excerpt below).

• Employees have been reclassified or promoted into unbudgeted roles with higher salaries:

  • An Engineering Project Manager was promoted to lead the group, moving from a non-union to a union role with a salary increase from $128,000 to $145,000, without budget approval.

  • A Water Pollution Control Facility Project Manager was transferred, implying shifting costs from a self-supporting budget to the town’s operating budget.

  • The Engineering Department lost a Senior Civil Engineer, further straining resources.

Even Selectwoman Christine Vitale (D) expressed surprise at these actions, citing a failure to follow proper procedures.

Why This Matters

Fairfield’s Town Charter* ensures transparency, accountability, and trust in local governance. Disregarding these rules undermines public confidence, especially after past efforts to rebuild trust following corruption and mismanagement. Moreover, having one party control all three boards effectively eliminates independent oversight.

What’s Next?

Your advocacy has prompted Mr. Gerber to commit to seeking Board approvals, We also need an internal audit to know for certain our tax dollars are being spent as appropriated.

Here’s how you can help:

1. Demand Answers: Attend public meetings and press for transparency.

2. Hold Leadership Accountable: Urge the BOS, RTM, and BOF to enforce compliance with the Town Charter.

3. Stay Informed: Follow updates and share information with fellow residents.

4. Call for an Investigation: Support an audit of these actions to ensure taxpayer funds are used appropriately.

Our Tax Dollars Are on the Line

Fairfield deserves leadership that respects the rule of law and prioritizes transparency. Ask the Board of Finance to immediately audit these personnel changes and transfers.

SEND AN EMAIL TO THE BOF

We hope you find this information helpful.  Please contact us at rtc@fairfieldrtc.com with any questions, we always welcome hearing from you. 

Sincerely, 

Laura M. Devlin

RTC Chair

Mike Grant

RTC Vice Chair