Middletown Water Pollution Control Authority Meeting Summary - June 11, 2026

The Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) convened on June 11, 2026, at 6:31 PM. The meeting included a public hearing, discussion of financial and collection reports, a draft water shut-off policy, adjustments, and staff updates. The meeting adjourned at 8:02 PM.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Riley McMahon (36 Walnut Street) requested a credit for an unexplained high water usage adjustment. He disputed the department's calculation of average consumption (3,100 cubic feet) and reported his own calculations (2,533 cubic feet). He also noted he had not received a copy of the adjustment policy. The board tabled the matter to allow the parties to meet and review the calculations, with a written resolution to be brought to the next meeting.

Discussion Items

• Monthly Fund Balance Reports (May 2026): Director Joe reported a water fund cash balance of $3,586,495 (up $986,870 year-over-year, attributed to aggressive collections and hospital payments) and a sewer fund cash balance of $3,026,404 (down $1,144,149 year-over-year, attributed to repayment of a $1.5 million loan). Discussion included water quality complaints related to system flushing.
• Collections Report: The board reviewed delinquent accounts and partial payments. Concerns were raised about the lack of transparency in how partial payments are accepted and the absence of penalties. A suggestion was made to add a "remaining balance" column to the report. Notable delinquent accounts include Lakefield Realty (over 12 years) and Clean Energy (monthly sewer bill). The board emphasized the need for improved tracking and accountability.
• Draft Water Shut-Off Policy: The board discussed scheduling a special meeting with the Mayor to finalize the policy. Dates of June 11 and June 18, 2026, at 3:00 PM were proposed for a special meeting. There was also discussion about putting the draft policy on the July common council agenda as a report item.
• Connecticut Water Linebacker Access Agreement: Tabled for legal review.
• Metro Square Litigation: No update; matter remains tabled.
• Police Traffic Control Costs: Councilman LaFredo discussed excessive police detail costs billed to the water and sewer department (estimated $800,000 over two years). He argued the department should be treated like public works (which is not billed) or receive nonprofit rates. The board tabled the item pending further data from the police and finance departments.
• Staff Reports (Brian & Theresa): Brian reported progress on meter replacements (including large meters for schools), collection efforts, and capital projects. Theresa highlighted water main replacements, pump station designs, and well redevelopment. The board requested an organizational chart showing vacant positions.

Key Outcomes

• Minutes Approved: The minutes of the regular meeting of May 7, 2026, were approved (vote: ayes). The minutes of the special meeting of May 7, 2026, were also approved (vote: ayes).
• Goodwill Adjustment Approved: An adjustment for 8 Broad Street (synagogue) was approved, granting a credit of $1,027.32 (vote: ayes).
• Special Meeting Scheduled: A special meeting to discuss the shut-off policy will be held on June 11 or June 18, 2026, at 3:00 PM, with the Mayor invited.
• Items Tabled: The 36 Walnut Street adjustment, Metro Square litigation, Connecticut Water access agreement, and police traffic control costs were all tabled.
• Executive Session Item Removed: The standing executive session placeholder will be removed from future agendas.
• Request for Reports: The director will provide an organizational chart with open positions, and a comprehensive report on police detail billing and Route 9 project impacts.