Letter: Senior Beach Fees Set By Commission, Not Tetreau

To the Editor:

I would like to address a recent opinion letter written by Stuart C. Anderson concerning the new, half-price beach fee for seniors in Fairfield. Mr. Anderson is absolutely wrong to lay this new policy at the feet of First Selectman Michael Tetreau. It is the that sets the fees, and a majority of the Commission voted to introduce the half fee to seniors for all beaches. 

Contrary to Mr. Anderson’s misguided assumptions, Mr. Tetreau actually contacted the Commission for the purpose of protecting seniors in need.  He suggested, and the Commission adopted an exception to the rule by allowing any senior on tax relief or any senior receiving state and local Social Services to still obtain a free beach sticker. In addition, all seniors, like all citizens can obtain a free sticker for . 

Our research determined that many seniors had multiple cars registered to their name, and were therefore receiving multiple free beach stickers and the Commission was faced with balancing issues of fairness to the community as a whole. 

As with all Boards and Commissions in the Town of Fairfield, our meetings are public and anyone is welcome to speak to a Parks and Recreation issue at our regularly monthly meetings.

Meanwhile, Mr. Anderson owes the First Selectman an apology.  He did not do his homework. 

                                                                        Very truly yours,

                                                                        Ellery C. Plotkin

                                                   Chairman, Parks and Recreation Commission