Fairfield's Affordable Housing Committee This Month To Host Community Conversation On Housing

FAIRFIELD, CT — Fairfield’s Affordable Housing Committee will host a public workshop on housing issues at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 29, at the Fairfield Museum & History Center. The event is free and open to the public, though organizers ask that attendees pre-register through this link.

The 90-minute session will include a 30-minute presentation by Community and Economic Development Director Mark Barnhart, followed by a discussion with committee members. Organizers said attendees will have an opportunity to share their perspectives on current and future housing needs. Light refreshments will be provided.

First Selectman Christine Vitale said the town is focused on expanding housing options to meet demand.

"The Town is committed to providing a range of housing options to meet our residents’ current and future housing needs," Vitale said. "I encourage Fairfield residents interested in learning more to attend this important workshop."

The Affordable Housing Committee, established in 1985, advises the town on strategies to address housing needs. The seven-member panel has contributed to initiatives including the creation of a Housing Trust Fund and zoning changes to allow accessory dwelling units.

Town officials said Fairfield secured its first housing moratorium in March 2025, limiting certain applications under the state’s Affordable Housing Land Use Appeals Procedure ("8-30g") for four years.

Officials say housing affordability remains a challenge in Fairfield, where the median sales price of a single-family home exceeded $1 million in 2025. Rising costs and limited inventory have made it more difficult for some residents, including young professionals, working families and older homeowners seeking to downsize, to find suitable housing.

Committee Chairman Urb Leimkuhler said the town has made progress but continues to seek additional solutions.

"While we have made progress in increasing both our affordable housing inventory and diversity of housing
options, our work is far from finished," Leimkuhler. "Because Fairfield residents want to find the housing they need within our community, we’re seeking the right approaches to help make that happen, while not compromising all that makes Fairfield special."