First Selectman Ken Flatto would rather not see another referendum over a bonding issue. Instead, he hopes that those in Fairfield who are passionate about funding for projects weigh in before the town boards vote. Flatto hopes that process will begin with the $3.2 million request to rebuild the Penfield Beach Pavilion. The Board of Selectmen will vote on the funding at Wednesday's meeting.
"It's important that we have this conversation as a community," Flatto said at a press conference Monday. "If not, there is the risk of a referendum." He said that with a referendum, it is tough to explain the "nitty-gritty details," forcing both sides to emphasize "small pieces" that are often "either inaccurate or emotional."
Flatto encouraged residents to speak up and send emails to his office, to the other Selectmen and to the Board of Finance, not only about the Penfield funding, but also about bonding in general.
On Monday, Flatto said he would not approve the funding recommendation from the Penfield Building Committee.
Though he supports rebuilding the 109-year-old Fairfield Beach Road facility, he would prefer reducing the plan or waiting a year or two. Flatto said he does not support turning the main pavilion into a catering facility for year-round events because the Jacky Durrell Pavilion next door provides that. Flatto said he could be swayed if many in the public disagreed.
The Board of Selectmen will meet at 4 p.m. Wednesday in Sullivan-Independence Hall. If the three-member panel, which also includes Sherri Steeneck and James Walsh, approve the Penfield funding, it will go before the Board of Finance in September.
To contact Flatto, email his deputy chief-of-staff Jennifer Carpenter at [email protected]. For other elected officials contact information, visit the town's website.
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