Reprinted from The Trumbull Times © Copyright 2009
September 24, 2009

By Donald Eng

In weeks of campaigning in town, Timothy Herbst said one topic recurs over and over again.

"Residents have continued to express frustration over the fact that they have to go out of town to get what they want," Herbst said. "Our residents believe we do not have a viable downtown that offers the options and venues that other communities provide."

On Monday, Herbst, the Republican challenger for first selectman, unveiled a three-part plan for economic development in town, including Trumbull Center, Westfield mall and the Reservoir Avenue/Lindeman Drive area.

"Vacancy rates in Trumbull Center have never been higher, and rents have never been higher," he said. "We need to look to other areas of town for development. We need to take action to correct the problem."

First, Herbst said he intended to fully implement the recommendations contained in the 2006 Plan of Conservation and Development. As chairman of the town's Planning & Zoning Commission, Herbst played a key role in the plan's development.

"The former Henderson Lumber Supply Company, which sits on 17 acres, offers a tremendous opportunity to completely revitalize the area to provide the options and venues residents deserve," he said. "This can be turned into a magnificent gateway to our town."

He also advocated additional development along Route 111 north of Route 25.

"This type of competition is good for everyone and forces all interested parties to be the best they can, including the ownership interests of Trumbull Center," he said.

Secondly, Herbst said he would work with the town's Economic Development Commission to identify vacant areas zoned for commercial and industrial purposes and attract businesses to occupy those properties.

"It is difficult to promote an agenda of expansion of areas for business purposes when you currently have areas that are not being utilized," he said.

Finally, Herbst said he would have a "hands-on" role in the revitalization of the Westfield mall and any future plans mall management might have.

"Westfield is one of our biggest taxpayers, and we must work with them," he said. "We worked with Target when they brought forth their application. We were able to work with them, and we were able to resolve all issues."