By Gregory B. Hladky Capitol Bureau Chief

HARTFORD -- A proposal by Bridgeport lawmakers to have the state buy Sikorsky Memorial Airport triggered strong opposition Monday from officials in Stratford, where the airport is located.

The proposal appears likely to turn what has been a long- simmering local feud into a knock-down, drag-out legislative brawl.

Bridgeport lawmakers claim the state needs to take over the airport because Stratford has for years blocked every attempt by their city to improve airport safety or develop the facility.

But Rep. Terry Backer, D-Stratford, testified Monday that the issue of what happens to Sikorsky Airport is "a matter of the right of self-determination for the town of Stratford."

"I don't believe Stratford has been recalcitrant with Bridgeport," Backer said during a hearing conducted by the legislature's Transportation Committee. He accused Bridgeport officials of "trying to do anrun around home rule."

Stratford Mayor James R. Miron warned that a state takeover "would not be prudent" and would continue to deprive his town of any economic or tax benefit from the airport. "The town of Stratford is interested in acquiring (Sikorsky Airport)," Miron said. "The future economic development of Stratford is largely dependent on developing this."