City of Middletown

The commission held a continued public hearing regarding a petition for a text amendment to the Middletown Zoning Code, specifically focusing on prohibited uses, rooming housing, and clinics. The discussion covered a map showing eligible properties for a substance abuse and mental health floating zone along major corridors. Additionally, the commission addressed inquiries regarding parking demand for urban living units and ultimately voted to approve the proposed text amendment.

The council discussed the amendment of an agenda item regarding elementary school roof repair. Public hearings were held concerning a bond ordinance for fire department station upgrades and other agenda items, including concerns over infrastructure decisions by the Department of Transportation regarding Route 9 and downtown traffic flow. Additionally, there was extensive discussion regarding the Guida Farm property, focusing on concerns over the transparency and process involved in authorizing a private flower farm operation on city-owned conservation land.

The commission approved the monthly Gayme Night event at Back Again Board Games. Discussion focused on a recap of PrideFEST 2026, including attendance metrics, vendor feedback, and challenges regarding protest zones and performer contract violations. The commission discussed future roles and responsibilities for upcoming events. Reports and recaps were provided for several community events including the Pride Pop-Up, Cross Walk Dedication, Drag Story Hour, and the Witches of Oz drag revue. Updates were provided regarding grant programs, scholarship initiatives, and fundraising efforts for Middletown Pride.

This document outlines the goals and objectives for the Middletown Police Department, focusing on strengthening community partnerships, ensuring high integrity and transparency, and becoming an evidence-based agency committed to continuous improvement. Key strategic pillars include investing in personnel through enhanced recruitment, training, diversity, equity, and inclusion; crime prevention and reduction; thorough investigations of serious incidents; promoting victim advocacy and mental health resources; and optimizing administrative and support services, including fiscal management, infrastructure development, and achieving accreditation. The plan emphasizes proactive policing, fostering trust, and continually evaluating services to meet community needs.

This master plan outlines a vision for the future of Middletown's riverfront, aiming to create an inclusive, mixed-use, vibrant, achievable, and sustainable area. Key guiding principles include fostering public spaces accessible to all, diversifying land uses to attract investment, reconnecting the riverfront with upland neighborhoods, promoting environmental stewardship, and creating economic opportunities. The plan emphasizes a community-centered process and proposes extensive park spaces, public riverfront amenities, and walkable, mixed-use development, supported by legislative actions and early implementation efforts.