FAIRFIELD — Selectman Christine Vitale has been appointed to temporarily replace First Selectman Bill Gerber, who has been diagnosed with a brain tumor and is currently undergoing medical evaluation, the Town of Fairfield announced Sunday night.
In accordance with the provisions of the Town Charter, and to ensure continued leadership and stability during his absence, First Selectman Gerber has designated Selectman Christine Vitale to serve as acting first selectman, effective immediately.
Vitale, a fellow Democrat, brings extensive experience in town governance and has served on the Board of Selectmen since November 2023. Prior to that, she served six years on the Board of Education, four as chair. She has served on the Board of Health and is currently co-chair of the Fairfield CARES Community Coalition. She will assume the duties and responsibilities of the first selectman until such time as Gerber is able to resume the role.
“Our thoughts are with Bill and his family during this challenging time,” said Vitale. “The Town stands united in support of his speedy recovery. I expect to be in close communication with Bill on a daily basis to receive guidance, provide updates, and keep his agenda moving forward. We have a strong team who I will be relying on as we continue to work together to serve our community.”
Selectman Brenda Kupchick shared her feelings about the news regarding the first selectman on Facebook.
“This evening Selectwoman Vitale called to share sad news that First Selectman Bill Gerber is facing a health issue and that she would be serving as interim First Selectman,” she wrote.
“I wish Bill and his family all the best as they navigate this difficult time and hope for a quick recovery. I hope all Fairfielders will join me in sending healing thoughts and prayers for the First Selectman and his family.”
In a statement, Gerber said: “While I focus on my health, I take great comfort in knowing the town is in good hands. I have complete confidence in Christine’s ability to guide our community with wisdom and integrity.”
No further details about Mr. Gerber’s condition will be shared at this time. The Town will provide updates as appropriate.
Gerber was elected Fairfield’s first selectman in November 2023. He has lived in Fairfield for almost 30 years with his wife Jessica and their family and has given back to the community through public service and his family’s annual fundraisers for St. Baldrick’s.
The first selectman has served on the RTM for 10 years. In 2019, he received his Master’s degree in Public Health from George Washington University and fulfilled his practical work requirement with the Fairfield Health Department.
Before graduating from Wesleyan University, Bill was among the first Western exchange students to attend Beijing University under China’s new Open Door Policy. After returning to the U.S., he earned an MBA in Finance and an MS in Accounting from the NYU Stern School of Business, and his CPA license while working for a major accounting firm in New York City. That foundation led to a 30-year career in financial services during which Bill traveled and lived all over the world, working for various high-profile companies in senior-level positions.
