Town of Fairfield News
11/8/2022 - Fill Pile Update
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Dear Fairfielders,
As leader of the Town of Fairfield, I was asked to appear in court again yesterday on behalf of our residents. It was a sobering moment as the former DPW Director plead guilty to 8 felony counts in the fill pile case, the first person among those charged to admit guilt. The guilty pleas include illegal disposal of PCBs and asbestos, receiving solid waste at an unpermitted facility, making false representations and conspiracy.
This has been a very unfortunate yet entirely avoidable scandal in our Town, the full cost to the taxpayers is still unknown. The cleanup and legal fees have already cost taxpayers approximately $5 million and the total bill may be in excess of $20 million, which is only part of this painful story. I pledged to Fairfielders from the day I took office that I would restore the public's trust by cleaning up the contaminated material across our Town while complying fully with law enforcement and the CT State’s Attorney’s Office. I also committed to installing proper oversight and accountability while working to make sure our Town government is run with transparency and honesty.
While in court standing as a representative for our community, I learned new developments that were quite stunning. It is clear from the sworn testimony that this corruption went right to the top and was happening for many years.
Sadly, more information is forthcoming as the trial is finally scheduled to begin in January after a long COVID pause.
While my heart was heavy listening to the summary of the charges, feeling anger and disgust, I also felt gratitude that one of the seven charged defendants finally admitted his guilt under a plea deal with the State's Attorney's Office. I was also encouraged that the long road to justice for our community has officially and finally begun.
I wanted to share the articles linked below regarding yesterday's court proceedings. I will continue to keep residents updated on this criminal case affecting our community.
I also want to extend my sincere appreciation on behalf of our residents to the Fairfield Police Department, and the State's Attorney's Office, for their unwavering dedication and diligence in investigating and prosecuting all those involved in crimes perpetrated against the people of Fairfield.
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Sincerely,
First Selectwoman Brenda L. Kupchick
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