Clinton Town Council Regular Meeting - April 15, 2026

The Clinton Town Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The meeting included public comments, approval of minutes, several resolutions, a financial report, and a vote on an automated traffic enforcement ordinance. Key topics included community concerns over code enforcement, support and opposition to speed cameras, and the appointment of a Parks and Recreation director.

Consent Calendar

• Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the April 1, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously.
• Jared Elliott Middle School Authorization Resolution: The council approved an amended resolution (unanimous) that provides more detailed responsibilities for the building committee overseeing the project.
• Emergency Management Performance Grant: The council authorized the town manager to apply for this annual state grant (approximately $6,000 plus an additional $1,000 for backup satellite equipment) with no match required. Approved unanimously.
• Parks and Recreation Director Appointment: The council approved the candidate presented by the town manager, who had been unanimously recommended by the Parks and Recreation Commission after a multi-round interview process. Approved unanimously.
• Line Item Transfer: A transfer of $25,000 from the Parks and Recreation IRRC Turf Field account to the Parks and Recreation Football Field Survey account was approved unanimously, to fund in-house repairs to the football field.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Seth Wolfe (144 East Main Street) expressed frustration about enforcement violations related to the National Electrical Code, claiming the building inspector said it was not his jurisdiction. He cited a cable line under Articles 820 and 770 of the code and demanded investigation by the following day, threatening to contact the state if not done.
• Philip Sengle (James Vinson Drive) spoke in favor of speed cameras, stating they are "modern enforcement of our speed laws" and that he expects to be cited. However, he urged the council not to micromanage the police commission, suggesting that the commission should have a higher profile and be trusted to handle enforcement. He expressed concern that the council might overstep its role.
• Patrick Shea (Country Village Lane) delivered an extensive statement opposing the automated traffic enforcement ordinance. He argued that the town has not met the burden of proof on safety, revenue motives, due process, and transparency. He cited a public hearing where roughly 40 people attended and the room was overwhelmingly against the devices, but the hearing was not filmed and was hard to find afterward. He claimed the council was told there were only six allowable defenses, but the ordinance included "but are not limited to" language, misleading the public. He urged council members to read his memo before voting and warned that voting yes without reviewing the materials would raise questions of responsibility.

Discussion Items

• Automated Traffic Enforcement Safety Devices (ATESD) Ordinance: The council debated the proposed ordinance to authorize red-light and speed cameras. Council member Patrick (Hank) presented data supporting the ordinance, including a national study showing a 21% reduction in red-light running fatalities after camera installation, and local data from Middletown showing a 27% decline in crashes and a 50% decline in speeding on Washington Street. He argued the ordinance includes strong privacy and data protections, with a termination-for-convenience clause in the vendor contract. Council member Jerry stated he was leaning against the ordinance because the public had overwhelmingly opposed it at the hearing and he represents the majority of residents. Council member Dennis agreed, noting that public input should guide the vote. Council member Ryan also opposed, citing litigation risks in other states, the clear public opposition, and the economic burden on working families during budget season. Council member Patrick (Hank) defended the ordinance but acknowledged the need to listen to the public. The council discussed the possibility of placing the issue on a ballot for November, but no formal action was taken on that.
• Financial Report: The town finance director presented the monthly report. Revenues are steady, expenditures are tight with no major transfers expected. Fund balance as a percentage of the proposed 2026-27 budget is 20.8%, within policy. The American Rescue Plan fund will be closed by year-end, with all funds obligated by December 31, 2025; spending remains on track. An update on the Board of Assessment Appeals (property revaluation) is still pending.
• Town Manager Report: The town manager updated on several items: a tree replacement program is being developed; 48 veterans completed surveys at a recent breakfast; the auditorium sound system is in good shape but the projectors (20 years old) need updating (estimated a few thousand dollars); and the Pearson affordable housing application process will be publicized once construction begins (expected July 2026).
• Chairman's Report: The chairman outlined upcoming meetings: a budget public hearing on April 20, a special meeting afterward, the town manager's performance evaluation on May 20, a goals meeting in June, and a long-term capital planning meeting in August.
• Council Discussion: A council member expressed support for a local group taking over the town's fireworks display via a GoFundMe campaign. There was also discussion about a "Adopt a Tree" program once the tree replacement plan is finalized.
• Committee Liaison Reports: Planning and Zoning approved a site plan for a new coffee shop in Post Office Square and is working on a memorandum of agreement with the Municipal Development Authority. The Economic Development Commission reviewed a roles-and-responsibilities chart. The Pearson construction is now expected to start in July rather than June.

Key Outcomes

• ATESD Ordinance Defeated: The motion to approve the automated traffic enforcement safety devices ordinance failed by a vote of 4 to 2 (4 opposed, 2 in favor). The ordinance will not be implemented.
• All Other Motions Passed Unanimously: Including approval of minutes, the amended school authorization resolution, the emergency management grant application, the parks and recreation director appointment, and the line item transfer.
• Future Directions: The council will not place the ATESD issue on a ballot at this time, though the option remains open. The tree replacement plan will be shared once stumps are removed and conditions improve for fall planting. The auditorium projector upgrade will proceed once a formal quote is received.