To the Editor:

They are talking about housing at Fairfield Hills Campus again!  They never give up. Mainly the Economic Development Commission, the Planning and Zoning Commission , and the Fairfield Hills Authority.

It doesn't seem to matter that the vast majority of we Newtowners who love Fairfield Hills and use it extensively for the beautiful hiking trails (which are being extended and made more beautiful) want it to be kept that way.  We fought like heck to keep the proposed 150 apartments from becoming a horrible reality in the midst of what many (including me) call the Jewel in the Crown of Newtown. Think about all the wonderful events that Newtowners have held there in the past. Walk for cancer, the Craft Fair that is such a success and enjoyed by so many.  The special events held by Newtown Youth academy, the Farmers Market, all the sports events held there through the seasons. Don't forget the Vegetable garden tended by volunteers every summer, who do a wonderful job and donate fresh food to our local Food Pantries.

Okay.  Now they are talking about  having “limited residential apartments above commercial use.” Picture that. People driving in and out all day to shop. People living upstairs who will need extensive parking for their vehicles (there goes some more green lawn and open space.)   How is this supposed to benefit Newtown?  More revenue income?  Offset by more cost to the town for more guards and traffic police. More children in school to educate.  And don't forget about the inevitable complaints from tenants about the noise of the Saturday morning ball games that we all enjoy.

Here is what we need to do. It is imperative to attend this upcoming meeting: Special  Meeting, Saturday  December 6, 2014  2-4 pm            Reed Intermediate School Library  3 Trades Lane, Newtown.

Public discussion of the proposed amendment to the Fairfield Hills design district zoning regulations which would include residential apartments above commercial uses.  

Rita Willie

 51 Butterfield Road Newtown                     November 25, 2014