Fairfield County leaders discuss affordable housing challenges and development incentives

The Affordable Housing Committee of the Town Council of Fairfield, Connecticut, convened on May 14, 2025, to discuss pressing issues surrounding affordable housing development in the area. The meeting focused on the challenges of creating missing middle housing and the financial implications of land acquisition for affordable units.

The committee began by addressing the difficulties in developing duplexes and multi-family units due to high land costs, which average around $300,000 per property. This results in a land cost of $150,000 per unit, making it financially unfeasible without significant subsidies. Members expressed concern over whether such subsidies represent a prudent use of limited resources.

A key point of discussion was the Parkview project, which currently includes 22 units of affordable homeownership. The committee emphasized the importance of maintaining these units, particularly in light of flood compliance issues that need resolution. The challenge of finding suitable land for new developments was highlighted, with members noting the scarcity of available properties in Fairfield.

The conversation shifted to the role of the state Department of Housing and the need for increased resources to assist under-resourced communities. Committee members acknowledged the value of sharing information and best practices with other municipalities, particularly Stamford, which has faced similar challenges. They noted that Stamford's approach to affordable housing, including a buyout option for developers, has led to a significant amount of housing being built without the required affordable units.

The committee also discussed the importance of understanding local market conditions and tailoring strategies to Fairfield's unique circumstances. Members recognized that while learning from other communities is beneficial, solutions must be adapted to fit Fairfield's specific needs.

As the meeting progressed, the committee reviewed ongoing projects, including the EOCD (Economic Opportunity and Community Development) plan, which is expected to be finalized by the fall. The potential impact of upcoming elections on housing initiatives was also a concern, as new representatives may alter the course of ongoing discussions.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the complexities of affordable housing development in Fairfield, highlighting the need for collaboration, resource allocation, and strategic planning to address the community's housing challenges effectively. The committee plans to continue these discussions in future meetings, focusing on actionable solutions and the sharing of successful strategies from other regions.