Susan and George Oberstadt are none too happy that their house is the topic of a Newtown Legislative Council agenda item tonight at 7:30 p.m. in the Municipal Center chambers on the Fairfield Hills campus.
The council’s agenda includes discussion about acquiring property for an access road to the new Sandy Hook Elementary School, including the use of eminent domain. An executive session is also scheduled related to such action.
The Oberstadts say they feel any discussion of eminent domain is a “threat” and that they are concerned that the town will take the property where Susan Oberstadt has lived for 68 of her 69 years. Oberstadt said they were first approached by the town in April, with follow up meetings in May. Susan Oberstadt said she, though, has never felt she was negotiating with the town, but rather the town was issuing them an “ultimatum.”
At this time, Oberstadt said she is not feeling optimistic about the town’s approach. The Oberstadts and their supporters intend to propose the council other alternatives, including use of the current driveway.
In prior discussions about construction of a new school on that site, including input from staff and families, town leaders agreed it is important to create a new access into that property so as not to relive the trauma associated with the former school.
First Selectman Pat Llodra said she expects a full presentation about what has occurred to date, and the options the council can consider.