Letter To The Editor: Affordable Housing Welcome On Beach Road

To the editor:

I am writing with regard to the proposed development at 131 Beach Road, which includes affordable housing, under the provision of Connecticut General Statutes 8-30g. I strongly support the development of affordable housing, which is desperately needed in our town. While there are questions about the scale of the proposed development, it is important to note that the inclusion of affordable housing is most welcome in our neighborhood.

Operation Hope began when First Church Congregational provided temporary shelter to people without homes. Today, Operation Hope is an essential partner of First Church and is one of the most effective homelessness prevention programs in the state that provides scores of affordable rental units throughout Fairfield.

In light of this history, allow me to clarify that several statements, which were made at the Town Planning and Zoning Hearing on 131 Beach with regard to First Church Congregational. None of these statements were made on behalf of and nor with the knowledge of the congregation and its leaders. Indeed, in some cases I would suggest that they were not consistent with the thinking and commitments of the congregation.

Yes, 131 Beach “is across from the historical First Church Congregation(al) that dates its founding back to 1640." However, the church does not feel its "historical significance will be irreparably damaged" nor that this “project is inconsistent and is potentially very damaging to the historical nature of that neighborhood and of the town." Indeed the commitment and legacy of First Church since the 17th century has been to provide help, housing and hope for the least among us. I disagree that the “legacy of those properties ... the(ir) historical significance is more important.” Indeed, it is self-evident that the provision of affordable in the proposal for 131 Beach Road is a fulfillment of the legacy of First Church and the history of the town.

I do sincerely hope that some form of the proposal will succeed, taking into account the stated concerns of neighbors, and that this property will be used to provide market rate and affordable housing and strengthen the town’s historic commitment of caring for all its citizens.

The Rev. David W. Spollett

Senior Pastor

First Church Congregational

Fairfield