First Selectman Gerber: Monopole fight has just begun

FAIRFIELD – First Selectman Bill Gerber reminded town residents in a recent newsletter that he and his administration will continue to lead the fight against United Illuminating’s plan to build 100 monopoles from Fairfield to Bridgeport.

“We continue to mobilize support from residents, legislators, and businesses to fight United Illuminating’s plan to install monopoles in the Town’s historic, business and residential districts,” Gerber wrote. “Legal briefs are due by Jan. 11, with a decision by the Siting Council to follow by March.”

Ever since the Siting Council approved UI’s $255 million plan in a draft decision in January 2024 to build the monopoles by taking about 22 acres of property through easements to build its new transmission lines, a grassroots movement has begun. Gerber is due to testify later this month in an appeal of the Siting Council’s decision.

Led by residents Andrea and Steve Ozyck, Sasco Creek Neighbors Environmental Trust Inc. (SCNETI) was formed about a year ago. “Its simple mission is to “bury the lines” – as in the UI transmission lines – instead of erecting monopoles,” he wrote.

United Illuminating has plans currently under review by the Siting Council to take private property in Fairfield and Bridgeport by eminent domain, and to install monopoles ranging from 125 to 145 feet at a distance up to 40 feet from where their electrical lines currently exist along the train tracks.

“If this plan proceeds, it will be devastating to the Town’s historic and residential neighborhoods and affected business areas,” Gerber wrote.

Gerber urges residents to educate themselves about what he calls the devastating impact of this plan. The group Empowering Fairfield provides information and is working to fight this developing project. Access Empowering Fairfield here.