FSA Advocacy in Action - More Examples of our Work

FSA advocated to fully exempt Social Security income from CT tax.
FSA has advocated for senior housing.
FSA pursued relief from the CT "8-30g" law (that allows zoning to be skirted except for only serious health and safety issues).
FSA has worked to improve senior/disabled tax relief (SDTR) programs.
- A letter campaign to (all) State legislators was conducted.
- A public position statement was released to Statewide/local newspapers; testimony was given in Hartford.
- A cost/benefit analysis was presented to State Finance Committee leaders.
- OUTCOME: Subsequent Legislature action was taken to broaden the exemption.
- NOTE: FSA was instrumental in preserving this benefit and pension/annuity tax relief for middle income seniors during State budget reductions in 2019.
FSA has advocated for senior housing.
- We testified in Hartford for more “affordable” senior housing opportunities.
- We held a senior housing seminar at the Bigelow Center with developers, architects and planners to expedite “affordable” and “attainable” housing options in Fairfield.
- Our Housing Committee continually focuses on (1) improving the environment/process for senior housing and (2) improving the stock of senior-friendly units.
- We have now captured data that will enable us to better understand the Fairfield housing stock, seniors’ housing profiles, and their housing needs.
FSA pursued relief from the CT "8-30g" law (that allows zoning to be skirted except for only serious health and safety issues).
- We spoke at Legislative committees, lobbied legislators and coordinated a community letter writing campaign.
- OUTCOME: With assistance from our State legislators 8-30g was modified.
FSA has worked to improve senior/disabled tax relief (SDTR) programs.
- We compiled data on senior income/demographic trends for the Town Committees on SDTR.
- FSA has provided education and evaluated recommendations for change.