Ethnic
diversity has increased in ten years and is seen as a benefit
of residence here. Fairfielders want for themselves
and their children the experience of knowing as friends and
neighbors many people of other cultures.
Fairfielders
in 2010 value competence and efficiency in government, and
civility in political life. Following public expressions
of outrage in the past over rude behavior displayed at meetings,
Fairfield Public Library offered a series of seminars for
local officials and the general public on the subject of peaceful
conflict resolution. Noticeable improvement is apparent
in the demeanor of officials, candidates for office and citizens
who participate in political dialogue. Gridlock over
local issues is avoided because the citizenry demands cooperation
and compromise.
Fairfield
is a model for other communities struggling with issues of
housing and open space. Enlightened zoning regulations
balance the need for a variety of housing choices with the
need for open space and wetlands protection. The Town
has listened to its seniors and created new units of moderate-cost
housing near the Post Road. Public minibuses are used
by residents of all ages.
Fairfield’s
fine public school system in 2010 is evidence of the value
all citizens place on education. Neighborhood schools
nurture the intellectual and social growth of children by
providing a broad curriculum and the wide variety of after-school
and evening activities desired by busy parents and energetic
youngsters. At the two public high schools, students
thrive in an atmosphere in which personal attention and the
cultivation of positive group dynamics are considered essential.
Excellent school libraries support the curriculum with up-to-date
books and computer resources. The education budget allows
for timely maintenance at all schools; roofs, heating plants,
windows, parking lots and play areas are regularly inspected
and repaired.
A
significant factor in the success of this community is the
active participation of citizens. Fairfielders cheerfully
volunteer to serve on municipal boards and as elected officials.
They are active in local service organizations and as youth
leaders. In response to the needs of young people and
the elderly, new programs have been created by the public
library, the recreation department, the school system, religious
and social organizations. Parents and grandparents volunteer
to assist with these programs.
Fairfielders
in 2010 are characterized by their willingness to think, act
and vote in the best interest of the community. While
they still hold a variety of views on local issues, they express
themselves courteously and listen carefully to opposing ideas.
Their determination to create an ideal community through bipartisan
cooperation has brought extraordinary benefits to the town.
Return
to Long Range Plan Contents
July 1, 2003
