There's a new acting first selectman in Fairfield as Bill Gerber undergoes medical evaluation for a brain tumor.

The town recently named Christine Vitale acting first selectman while Gerber is away.

"In addition to being the first selectman," Vitale says, "He’s also a friend, so this is definitely hitting very close to home."

Vitale has served on the Board of Selectmen since November 2023 and served six years on the Board of Education – four of which as its chair.

She’s currently co-chair of the Fairfield CARES Community Coalition.

"It really truly is an honor," Vitale says. "An honor to fill in as acting first selectman until Mr. Gerber is back at this desk."

Vitale says she's committed to continuing to build on the progress the administration has made over the past 18 months, including the safe streets initiative and battling the UI monopoles from going up.

In the meantime, Gov. Ned Lamont and Fairfield residents are wishing Gerber a speedy recovery.

"Live every day to its fullest because you never know what tomorrow is going to bring," Gov. Lamont says. "He’ll be back. He’s a good first selectman, and I like working with him."

“It’s devastating," Lori Murchison-Chervin says. "It doesn’t matter what your politics are, especially when something like this is happening."

“The town of Fairfield is a really supportive town," Sue Geiger says. "We’re all going to be rooting for him and hoping that he gets well soon."

There is no timetable yet on when Gerber could return.