Water Pollution Control Authority Special Meeting on Shut-Off Policy - June 23, 2026

The Middletown Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) held a special meeting on June 23, 2026, to discuss and adopt the fourth draft of a water shut-off policy for delinquent accounts. Mayor Gene Nissara attended online and expressed concerns about the residential impact of water termination, advocating for foreclosure instead of shut-offs for residents. WPCA members and staff defended the policy as necessary, lenient compared to other municipalities, and protective of vulnerable residents. The WPCA voted unanimously to adopt the resolution implementing the policy.

Discussion Items

• Mayor's Concerns: Mayor Nissara stated that residential water termination creates public health issues, as families may resort to unsafe water sources, and shifts costs to the health department for relocation (citing a $30,000 relocation case). He argued that the city should move to foreclosure for non-paying residents and that the mayor's office should have a role in final termination decisions.
• WPCA Response: Members (Jeff Piper, Phil, Vincent Letredo, Linda Slavia, and staff) emphasized that the policy is a guide, not a mandate. They noted that the fourth draft includes protections for low-income households (125% and 300% of poverty level), medical hardships, and other vulnerabilities. They highlighted that the policy is more lenient than those of other Connecticut municipalities (most of which have shut-off policies with shorter delinquency periods). Staff (Teresa Spolletta and Joe Fasino) explained that the policy's purpose is to compel delinquent customers—some owing thousands over years—to engage with the department, not to permanently terminate service.
• Need for Policy: Members stressed that without a written policy, the city has no legal basis to enforce payments, and that $5 million in unpaid water bills is unsustainable. They argued that the policy provides a roadmap to address both residential and commercial nonpayment, with commercial delinquency being a particular frustration.
• Implementation and Oversight: Mayor Nissara suggested forming a subcommittee involving the mayor's office for final determinations. Members noted that the WPCA is the responsible authority and that the policy can be amended as needed. An appeals committee was briefly discussed but not formalized.

Key Outcomes

• Motion and Vote: A motion to adopt the resolution approving the fourth draft of the water shut-off policy was made by Linda Slavia and seconded. The WPCA conducted a roll call vote. All present members voted in favor: Jack Piper (aye), Vincent Letredo (aye), Linda Slavia (aye), Tammy K. (aye), and Jeff Piper (aye). Brian Gardner had left the meeting. The vote was unanimous.
• Adoption: The WPCA adopted the resolution, implementing the water shut-off policy for delinquent accounts. The policy will be posted on the city website and recorded. The meeting adjourned at approximately 4:05 PM.