07/14/26 Land Acquisition Commission

The Town of Fairfield Connecticut Land Acquisition Commission held a meeting on July 14, 2026, focusing primarily on potential land acquisitions and related environmental assessments. The commission approved a $2,600 contract for a phase one environmental site assessment for 80 Congress Street, a property appraised at $100,000, to evaluate environmental risks such as potential PCB contamination near an electric substation. Discussion also covered the 4480 Black Rock Turnpike property, a 5.4-acre undeveloped parcel with permits for multi-family development, where the commission agreed to seek an updated appraisal and explore dialogue with the owner about possible town acquisition to prevent development. The commission reviewed the status of other properties under consideration, including co-ownership arrangements and tax delinquent parcels, and discussed the limited balance of $54,000 in the open space fund. They considered strategies to increase funding, including advocating for budget allocations or bonds, to support future land purchases and conservation efforts. No formal votes on property purchases were made, but motions were passed to approve environmental assessments and to pursue further appraisals and owner engagement for potential acquisitions.