This story is updated to include more reaction to the first selectman’s death.
FAIRFIELD — Acting First Selectman Christine Vitale shared her feelings about the passing of First Selectman Bill Gerber, 60, in a statement released late yesterday.
“I am deeply saddened to announce the passing of First Selectman William A. Gerber, who died on July 15, 2025 at Yale New Haven Hospital following complications from brain surgery,” she said. “The Town leadership and staff extend their deepest condolences to Mr. Gerber’s family, friends and loved ones. Fairfield has lost a dedicated leader.”
Day-to-day operations of town government continue uninterrupted under Acting First Selectman Vitale, with department heads and staff maintaining leadership functions and services.
Vitale, a fellow Democrat, celebrated Gerber’s public service in her July 15 statement:
“First Selectman Gerber was dedicated to public service and the people of Fairfield. Elected in November 2023, he served with integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community. During the 19 months that Bill was in office, he made a number of significant and far-reaching changes,” she said.
Fairfield Public Library extended its sympathy to the family of the late first selectman.
“Bill was a strong champion of the library even before he became First Selectman, but in that position, he ‘walked the walk’ and contributed to the library on many levels,” said town Librarian Scott Jarzombek.
“He was also a great human being who truly cared about the town of Fairfield I will miss his leadership, his humor, and his kindness.”
Andrew Minea, library Board of Trustees chair, added: “Bill’s advocacy helped strengthen the library as a vital resource for all residents and reflected his deep commitment to our community.
We are so grateful for his partnership over the years, and join his family and the Town of Fairfield in mourning his loss.”
Some of Gerber’s accomplishments pointed out in Vitale’s statement included making the town government more efficient, effective, collaborative and ethical; investing in infrastructure like the sewer system, schools, HVAC, flood control and more; strengthening public safety through investments in personnel, technology and facilities; improving the safety and usability of the streets; enhancing community services and facilities; championing the excellence of the schools; and increasing housing options for young families, seniors and workers.
In honor of the first selectman, all flags in Fairfield will be flown at half-staff until further notice. A condolence book will soon be available in the lobbies of Old Town Hall and Independence Hall; residents and friends are encouraged to sign the book with memories and thoughts for his family. The town will share more information about memorial services and ways the community can pay tribute in the coming days.
“Bill Gerber was a friend, colleague, and role model. He loved this community and was dedicated to improving the lives of all our residents.” Vitale added. “We ran for office on the belief that we are better when we work together. I am committed to working with my fellow elected officials to advance his vision of a town that is welcoming and accessible to all, with a thriving business community, anchored by a strong school system and public safety resources.”
