New Chairman To Head Fairfield Hills Authority

By Kendra Bobowick

Joking with the Fairfield Hills Authority members as her husband and board Chairman Bob Geckle convened his last meeting, Kathy Geckle stood and waved, “Good-bye all!”

Later in the evening, however, the lighthearted mood turned to business. “In advance of leaving, I resign as chair and would like to nominate John Reed to assume the responsibilities as chairman,” said Mr Geckle, whose last day on the authority will be May 31.

“I second,” Andrew Willie quickly stated.

Mr Reed said, “I have had the pleasure of working with most of you…you know what you’re getting if I am elected chair, then I accept the responsibility.”

Giving credit to Mr Geckle’s nearly ten years of public service — most recently as chair — starting with what began as an ad hoc committee when residents first voted to purchase the former state hospital campus, Mr Reed said, “I can’t fathom the hours Bob has put in. I don’t think I can match that…”

Mr Reed continued, “So, I would need enthusiastic work from the rest of you to make this work.”

Considering the authority’s finances, ongoing work, and projects pending, he acknowledged the challenges, saying, “As long as I can count on you, then I think I can do it. I need you if I try to help us fill the gap.”

Confirming that all were in favor, Mr Geckle said, “I thank you all.”

“We thank you,” were the words coming from more than one authority member as Mr Geckle leaned back in his seat. “It’s been great, fun, but I am moving into the tenth year. I felt it was time for something else. It has been a labor of love.”

He said he will still be “glad to help” as the authority continues its work. “I’ve enjoyed it. I thank you all for your support.”

The Republican Town Committee already has a nominee in mind to fill the Fairfield Hills Authority vacancy. Either a Republican or unaffiliated voter may take the position.