Fairfield RTC Reaffirms Commitment to Local Control in Wake of New Housing Law

Fairfield, CT - November 13, 2025, The Fairfield Republican Town Committee (RTC) strongly reaffirms its support for local zoning control and expresses deep concern over HB 8002, the new statewide housing bill being pushed through in this week?s special legislative session, a process that has excluded meaningful public input and local voices.

While more diverse housing is needed across Connecticut, HB 8002 was developed in a vacuum and rushed through without collaboration or consideration from the minority party, municipalities, or residents who will bear its consequences. The decision to bypass hearings, testimony, and debate, which are part of the normal legislative process, represents one-party rule at its worst.

?Good policy comes from good process,? said Laura Devlin, Chair of the Fairfield RTC. ?A bill that could reshape every Connecticut community should involve residents, local leaders, and planning professionals. Limited transparency in a special session is anything but a good process.?

Fairfield?s State Representatives Jennifer Leeper, Cristin McCarthy Vahey, and Sarah Keitt missed the chance to push for a more open, collaborative approach. Instead, they allowed the bill to advance largely unchanged from the version previously vetoed by Governor Lamont, and then went further by voting in favor without objection or comment.

Among the RTC?s key concerns are mandated housing targets, the loss of local planning control, and the potential threat to Fairfield?s hard-earned 8-30g moratorium. These changes could undo years of careful work by the Town Plan and Zoning Commission and residents.

As HB 8002 nears approval, the RTC will closely monitor its effects on Fairfield?s neighborhoods and remain committed to promoting local input, transparency, and responsible housing options that reflect the community?s needs and character.

?Balance in government is essential, but it does not exist today in our state or local government,? Devlin said. ?Our elected Republican officials will continue to stand for thoughtful, community-driven planning, protect what makes Fairfield special, and provide the counterbalance our residents deserve.?

For more information about the Fairfield RTC, visit www.fairfieldrtc.com