Troy S. Anderton

The agenda includes an update on programming for the Bull's Run Nature Sanctuary and Arboretum. Personnel matters involve confirming appointments for a Firefighter Paramedic and an Administrative Assistant, alongside receiving an Oath of Office. The council will consider a professional services agreement for water treatment plant equipment, the purchase of a vehicle for the Parks Maintenance Division, and supply contracts for the Water Maintenance Division. Legislative items address the renewal of an outdoor refreshment area, appropriation adjustments for the Police Department, a zoning classification change, the sale of city-owned property, and a grant application for an airport hangar project. An executive session is planned to discuss economic development assistance.

The council meeting addressed various community issues, including concerns regarding the demolition of historic downtown buildings and the ongoing 'downtown refresh' process. Key agenda items featured a public hearing regarding the 2026 tax budget, a proposal for a new assisted living facility, and updates on the YMCA Monsoon Bay project and the Sorg Opera House restoration. Additionally, the council discussed community event planning, staff appointments, and authorized various service agreements and equipment purchases for city departments.

The meeting primarily addressed the approval of eligibility lists for several positions, including Corrections Officer, Dispatcher, Patrol Officer, and Equipment Operator, following written and physical agility examinations. The Commission also approved extensions for two individuals currently on the eligibility list for the FF-EMT position. Additionally, the commission processed and approved exceptional appointments for the positions of Engineer and Expedited Water and Sewer, alongside a new position description for the Expedited Water and Sewer role. Finally, the commission received updates on upcoming job announcements, examinations, and reviewed personnel transactions from the previous month.

The document contains an agenda for a future meeting on March 17, 2026, and minutes from a July 1, 2025 meeting. Key topics covered include the recognition of a local educator and athlete, discussions regarding downtown revitalization efforts, the future of historic buildings, a public hearing on the 2026 tax budget, a zoning application for an assisted living facility, and updates on the YMCA Monsoon Bay project and the Sorg Opera House restoration.

The meeting began with a public hearing regarding a request to amend the zoning for parcels at 1301 South Marshall from R4P plan development district to B2 community business district to allow for redevelopment into two to three commercial lots. Staff analysis indicated this aligns with the B2 zoning purpose statement and the neighborhood mixed-use future land use category. The Planning Commission recommended approval with a six-to-zero vote. Council members expressed support for the rezoning but voiced a preference for original commercial development rather than typical uses like gas stations or dollar stores. Following the public hearing, Council members commented on a successful fire department response to a difficult apartment fire on Central Avenue and provided updates on the Keep Middletown Beautiful committee's activities, including an upcoming Earth Day event. The Mayor noted a recent strategic planning session for community priorities beginning in 2027. Announcements were made regarding upcoming Downtown Middletown, Inc. events, including a 'Luck on the Rocks' event and a Girl Scout cookie walk, as well as a Bourbon and Barbecue event and an art exhibition at the Middletown Art Center.