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SHOWING 51–60 ENTRIES
51
JUL 21, 2026 · MIDDLETOWN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL & COMMISSIONS
LGBTQI Plus Commission Regular Meeting - July 21, 2026

The LGBTQI Plus Commission held a regular meeting on July 21, 2026, starting at 7:00 PM. The meeting covered approvals, elections, financial challenges, and policy decisions. Commissioners discussed a projected budget deficit of $56,700 for Middletown Pride, options for cost-cutting, and the need to find a new financial sponsor after the Chamber of Commerce contract ended. Several motions were passed unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the June 17, 2026 regular meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present. Discussion Items - FOI, Ethics, Minority Representation Workshop: Postponed due to a family emergency of Christopher Ford. Commissioners were directed to email him with questions. - Election of Chair and Vice Chair: Brianna Bloomscavera was nominated and elected Chair for 2026-2027. Katie Merritt was nominated and elected Vice Chair. Dolly Haddad stepped down as Vice Chair. - Meeting Format: A motion to keep meetings hybrid (in-person and remote) for fiscal year 2027 passed unanimously. - Pride Fest 2027 Date: Selected as Saturday, June 5, 2027, with a rain date of Sunday, June 6, 2027. Discussion noted lower attendance in 2026 possibly due to Boston Pride on the same weekend. - Middletown Pride Scholarship Subcommittee: Beth Shapiro recused herself because her son will apply for the scholarship. The subcommittee was established with Angela Crow, Dolly Haddad, and Trevor Charles as members. Beth Shapiro will provide guidance but not vote. - Financial Overview: The commission faces a projected deficit of $56,700 for the current fiscal year, primarily from losing approximately $32,000 in sponsorships (Chamber of Commerce no longer serving as fiscal sponsor, and Wesleyan University reevaluating support). Three options were presented: 1) same activities but reduced scope, 2) focus only on Pride Fest with no year-round programming, 3) reduce Pride Fest significantly to keep year-round programming. Commissioners favored preserving community events and scholarships, and discussed cost-cutting measures such as reducing game night frequency, capping event costs, and exploring fundraisers. A motion to suspend rules of order allowed a 17-minute informal discussion. The meeting resumed with a motion to resume scheduled meeting. - Violation of Performer Contracts: A policy was adopted that performers or contractors who fail to fulfill their Middletown Pride contract terms will not be hired for future events. An amendment added a reconsideration option upon appeal to the commission. The motion passed unanimously. - Status of Chamber of Commerce Contract: The contract has ended. The commission voted unanimously to recommend that the mayor immediately issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for similar financial sponsorship services. The process is expected to take several months; a target for contract award is October 2026, with a drop-dead date of January 2027 to still host Pride Fest 2027. - Fundraising During Events: A suggestion was made to add a donation QR code at events. Commissioner Dolly Haddad will contact the Chamber to create a donation portal. - Game Night Report: The most recent game night had strong attendance with many new participants, building community. - Pride Paddle: A successful event with about 30 participants, including kayaking and invasive water chestnut removal. It was noted that ASL interpretation was not provided, saving $500. Key Outcomes - Chair and Vice Chair elected: Brianna Bloomscavera (Chair), Katie Merritt (Vice Chair) – unanimous. - Meeting format: Hybrid for FY27 – unanimous. - Pride Fest 2027 date: June 5 (rain date June 6) – unanimous. - Scholarship Subcommittee: Established with Angela Crow, Dolly Haddad, Trevor Charles – passed with one abstention. - Performer contract violation policy: Adopted with amendment allowing reconsideration – unanimous. - Recommendation to mayor to issue RFP for financial sponsor: Approved unanimously. - Next steps: Commissioners to reach out about donation portal, and the RFP process will be initiated upon mayoral approval.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 54% · BUDGET EQUITY ANALYSIS 17% · PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 15% · PROCEDURAL 13%
52
JUL 21, 2026 · MIDDLETOWN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL & COMMISSIONS
General Council Commission Regular Meeting - July 21, 2026

The General Council Commission held a regular meeting on July 21, 2026, at approximately 6:32 p.m. The meeting included approval of minutes, discussion and unanimous adoption of an ordinance updating the motor vehicle depreciation schedule, a report on recruitment efforts, a detailed review of the vacancy report, and a discussion of the Baker-Tilly compensation classification plan deadline. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the May 20, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (motion by Councilman Polino, seconded by Councilwoman Sweeney). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Ordinance 272-25 – Motor Vehicle Depreciation Schedule: The city's assessor, Damon, presented an ordinance to amend the local motor vehicle depreciation schedule in response to a state law change. The new state law mandates that all vehicles over 20 years old be assessed at a fixed $500, replacing the previous graduated depreciation table. The ordinance removes the outdated table and instead references the enabling state statute. The change is expected to reduce the city's grand list by approximately $4 million in assessment value, which could lead to a mill rate increase if other revenues do not offset the loss. Council members expressed concern about the fiscal impact but noted the city must comply with state law. The ordinance was moved by Councilman Polino? (motion unclear), seconded by Councilman McLean, and passed unanimously. - Recruitment Efforts: A council member reported on recent recruitment activities led by Maria, including participation in Juneteenth and Pride events, an internal career fair, a career fair at Wesleyan University, recruitment for truck driver eligibility, and an open house for adult education. The council member also highlighted the launch of an employee newsletter (quarterly) and a mayoral newsletter (monthly) to improve communication. The council agreed to invite Maria to present in September. - Baker-Tilly Compensation Classification Plan: The council discussed the timeline for approving a new compensation classification plan. The current labor management process is on hiatus, but if the council does not approve a new plan by January 5, 2027, the process will revert to the previous system, allowing up to 20 job reviews per year. Council members emphasized the need to decide soon to allow for implementation. - Vacancy Report: The council reviewed a detailed list of vacant positions, including those restored by the council. Key updates: Assessment Aid position closed and under review; Civilian Dispatcher Trainee requisition pending approval; Deputy Director of Central Communications anticipated start August 3; Firefighter positions (grant-funded) starting mid-August; Public Health Sanitarian recruitment active; Building Department deputy director on hold until director hired; several positions in Public Works and other departments in various stages of hiring or unfunded. The council requested an updated vacancy report and a list of temporary employees be sent to the full commission. Key Outcomes - Approved: Minutes of May 20, 2026 (unanimous). - Adopted: Ordinance 272-25 updating the motor vehicle depreciation schedule (unanimous). - Next Steps: Maria to present to the council in September on recruitment efforts. Council to receive an updated vacancy report and list of temporary employees. Council to consider the Baker-Tilly plan soon to meet the January 5, 2027 deadline. - Adjourned: The meeting was adjourned by motion of Councilman Polino, seconded by Councilman Sweeney, at approximately 7:25 p.m.

PERSONNEL MATTERS 34% · TRANSPORTATION SAFETY 17% · WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT 16% · PROCEDURAL 12%
53
JUL 13, 2026 · MIDDLETOWN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL & COMMISSIONS
Mayor's Code Enforcement Committee Meeting - July 13, 2026

The Mayor's Code Enforcement Committee met on July 13, 2026, at 9:01 AM. The meeting covered approval of prior minutes, public comments regarding a neighbor dispute involving a fire pit, updates on litigation at 455 and 465 Middlefield Street, and progress on cannabis ordinances targeting unlicensed sales. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (May 14, 2026): Moved by Teneal, seconded by Dean. Approved unanimously at 9:03 AM. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Reeve (237 Barbara Road, father of Christopher Reeve) addressed the committee, stating that the neighbor at 66 Nathan Hill Road is burning in a fire pit without cooking, and that there are unresolved issues regarding a fence, building permits, and general disregard for ordinances. He urged action. Discussion Items - Fire Pit Ordinance: The committee discussed a complaint from Christopher Reeve about a neighbor's fire pit near the property line. The City Fire Marshal had previously deemed the fire pit acceptable if actively used for cooking, but the city ordinance prohibits open burning except for recreational fires with clean wood. Fire marshals noted that recreational burns are allowed by state code but city ordinance restricts open burning. The committee agreed to have the fire marshal group review whether ordinance revisions are needed. Additionally, Land Use Manager Tom will visit the property to assess a shed structure and fence issues. - 455 and 465 Middlefield Street: Litigation ongoing. Plaintiff filed brief; city's brief due end of July. No new complaints or changes observed. No hearing date set; argument expected late summer/early September. - Cannabis Ordinances: The city is developing two related ordinances. One aims to ban public cannabis smoking (pending revisions after council feedback); the other will allow legal action against landlords renting to unlicensed cannabis sellers. Police reported that a location on Washington Street (Sam's) was hit twice by narcotics unit and is now shutting down, vacating the premises. Key Outcomes - Fire Pit Ordinance: Committee directed the fire marshal group to review the ordinance and report back. No formal vote taken. - Middlefield Street: No new action; litigation continues. - Cannabis Enforcement: Update noted; council needs to pass enabling ordinance. Enforcement expected within 1–2 months. - Adjournment: Moved and seconded; adjourned at 9:18 AM.

NOISE POLLUTION 46% · PROCEDURAL 15% · CANNABIS REGULATION 14% · ZONING REGULATIONS 13%
54
JUL 13, 2026 · MIDDLETOWN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL & COMMISSIONS
Mayor's Code Enforcement Committee Meeting - July 13, 2026

The Mayor's Code Enforcement Committee met on July 13, 2026, at 9:01 a.m. (Note: The transcript identifies the meeting date as July 9, 2026; the provided metadata indicates July 13, 2026.) The committee approved prior minutes, discussed a proposed fire pit ordinance, received a litigation update, and reviewed a cannabis enforcement ordinance. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (June 11, 2026): Motion by Danielle, seconded by Scott. Approved unanimously at 9:02 a.m. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made; no members of the public were present, and the public session was closed. Discussion Items - Proposed Fire Pit Ordinance: The chair said the red-lined ordinance was drafted to align with DEEP guidance and state law. A request from South Fire for additional review led to a proposal to table consideration. James of South Fire confirmed they needed to meet with all three fire departments. Nick asked about the 8 a.m. to midnight time limit; James said it could be changed and cited 10 p.m. limits in other towns. The committee voted to table the item to next month. - Litigation Update – 455 and 465 Middlefield: The city filed a brief on behalf of the Zoning Board of Appeals the previous week. A court argument is expected in the fall, with timing at the court's discretion. No new complaints or activity were reported by the health department, police, or residents. - Cannabis Ordinance: A reworked ordinance allowing municipal action against landlords renting to businesses selling cannabis products without a license will go to the Board of Health next week, then to Public Safety, GCC, and the City Council. Nick reported that at Harbor Park, officers asked people smoking marijuana to leave after family complaints, but noted current ordinances lacked enforcement teeth in that area; he hopes the new ordinance will provide better enforcement. Key Outcomes - Unanimously approved the June 11, 2026 meeting minutes. - Unanimously voted to table the fire pit ordinance until the next month's meeting (motion by Scott, second by Neil). - The cannabis ordinance remains on track: Board of Health next week, then Public Safety, GCC, and Council. - Meeting adjourned at 9:10 a.m.

PROCEDURAL 37% · PENDING LITIGATION 29% · ZONING REGULATIONS 21% · CANNABIS REGULATION 13%
55
JUL 13, 2026 · MIDDLETOWN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL & COMMISSIONS
Middletown Rent Commission Meeting – July 13, 2026

The Middletown Rent Commission met on July 13, 2026 at 7:01 PM. The session included jurisdictional reviews, stipulation orders, an executive session, and several tenant complaints against landlords. The meeting adjourned at 8:41 PM. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the May 27, 2026 special meeting were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Order of Agenda: A motion to move up old business/new business was approved. - Nestor Matter: A request for continuance was reported; the matter was tabled to August 12, 2026. - Williams Matter: Attorney Carlson reported that the tenant had moved out and returned keys. The commission voted to dismiss the complaint as moot (5-0, with Commissioner Calvo absent? Actually roll call: Cowboy, Cronenberger, Bell, Rosenthal all aye; no opposition). The complaint was dismissed. - Jurisdictional Reviews: - Two Carabetta-managed properties (Baroa/MOTA vs. Real Fee, and Jacobs vs. CR Rose Gardens) were accepted for jurisdiction unanimously. - Seven complaints against Alpha Capital at 142 South Main Street (Kennedy, Connery, Ball, Karaton, Foy, M Foy, Schneider, Francis, MD Foy) were considered. The commission accepted jurisdiction on all seven via a single motion, with Commissioner Connors recusing from two cases and abstaining from the vote. The motion passed 4-0 (one abstention). - A new complaint (Odar Bar) was added to the agenda and accepted for jurisdiction. - Lynch Matter: A stipulated order was presented setting rent at $1,390/month from July 2026 through March 2027, with repairs completed. Both parties affirmed the agreement, and the commission accepted the stipulation unanimously (roll call: Rosenthal, Cronenberger, Calvo, Fennel, Gonishov all aye). - Russo Matter: A stipulated order was accepted, setting rent at $1,600/month from July 2026 through March 2027, with repairs to the floors by September 30, 2026. Attorney Carabetta confirmed acceptance. The motion passed unanimously. - McPherson Matter: A stipulated order from May 29, 2026 was reviewed. The tenant, Mr. McPherson, requested an extension to vacate (beyond the agreed September 30, 2026 date) due to the eviction being removed from the record later than expected. The commission noted that it could not amend the signed stipulation. After a recess, the tenant accepted the original terms. The commission accepted the stipulated order unanimously (roll call: Rosenthal, Codenberger, Calvo, Fennel, Gonishov all aye). Compliance with paragraphs 1-5 was noted, with items 6-7 (vacating and security deposit) remaining open. - Executive Session: The commission entered executive session at 7:58 PM to discuss legal issues and employee staffing. The session lasted until 8:41 PM and was approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Dismissed: Complaint against Williams dismissed as moot. - Jurisdiction Accepted: All complaints against Carabetta properties and Alpha Capital (142 South Main Street) were accepted; a new complaint (Odar Bar) was also accepted. - Stipulations Approved: Three stipulated orders were accepted (Lynch, Russo, McPherson). - Executive Session: Held for legal and staffing discussions.

PENDING LITIGATION 74% · PROCEDURAL 13% · AFFORDABLE HOUSING 13%
56
JUL 9, 2026 · MIDDLETOWN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL & COMMISSIONS
Middletown Planning and Zoning Commission Regular Meeting - July 9, 2026

Note: The agenda listed the meeting date as July 8, 2026, but the instruction specifies July 9, 2026. This summary uses the provided date. The commission held a public hearing on a special exception and site plan application for a permanent year-round farm market at 1171 Randolph Road. After public comments and commission discussion, the hearing was continued to July 22, 2026, to allow further neighbor outreach and refinement of plans. The commission also approved the minutes of the June 24, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. and Mrs. Berger (34 Maple Shade Road, adjacent property owner): Spoke against the application, citing prior unauthorized use of the property as a wedding venue with loud music, bright lights, and large crowds (estimated more than 100 people). Expressed distrust in the applicant's representations and concern about sanitation and parking. - Sebastian Giuliano (348 Maple Shade Road): Opposed the application, arguing that a year-round farm market is indistinguishable from a retail store and that the event space component is incompatible with the R-15 residential zone. Suggested the applicant withdraw and resubmit after more neighbor consultation. - Dave Campanelli (11 Farm View Circle): Raised concerns about traffic on Randolph Road, parking adequacy, and the feasibility of a year-round market (questioning sources of produce in winter). Also noted existing traffic issues from nearby Big Y. - Additional speaker (name not stated): Expressed support for the concept but opposition to the location, particularly the wedding venue aspect, and emphasized that the operation should remain agricultural. Discussion Items - Application Overview: Dominic DiMauro, operator of The Gardens at Stone Post Key, described the transformation of the property over four years from a seasonal flower shop to a year-round agricultural and agritourism destination. Proposed activities include a permanent farm market (limited to four days per month) and private events (max 10 per year, capped at 100 guests, Fridays and Saturdays only). The applicant stated that revenue from these activities would sustain the property and prevent redevelopment. - Staff Input: Director Kozikowski confirmed that a permanent year-round farm market is a special exception use in the R-15 zone per Section 5.6.8.15, which allows additional activities such as private events, farm festivals, and food trucks. This special exception use was created by a zoning text amendment in 2021. There are no other approved examples of this use in the zone. - Commission Questions: - Commissioner Eckstrom encouraged the applicant to collaborate with neighbors and suggested focusing on non-event activities like nature walks. - Commissioner Szynkowicz supported the concept but felt the location was inappropriate and stated he would not vote favorably. - Commissioner Spencer inquired about the applicant's ownership status and current operations; the applicant noted he would purchase the property if approved, and currently grows tropical plants and nursery stock year-round. - Commissioner Emory expressed support for a farm stand but not a year-round market or events, citing the residential zone and potential impacts on the neighborhood. - Commissioner Spencer also questioned historical use and traffic impacts; the applicant argued that existing traffic on the state highway is high and that 48 parking spots are adequate. - Neighbor Outreach: The applicant admitted he had not spoken with all neighbors and agreed to continue discussions. Several commissioners noted the need for more concrete plans, particularly regarding event types and frequency. Key Outcomes - Public Hearing Continued: The commission voted unanimously to keep the public hearing open and continue it to the next regular meeting on July 22, 2026. No decision was made on the application. - Minutes Approval: The minutes of the June 24, 2026 regular meeting were approved unanimously, with one abstention (Commissioner absent from that meeting). - Next Steps: The applicant is expected to meet with neighbors and present more detailed plans at the July 22 meeting.

AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT 41% · ZONING REGULATIONS 25% · COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 17% · PROCEDURAL 12%
57
JUL 9, 2026 · MIDDLETOWN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL & COMMISSIONS
Common Council Community Meeting - July 9, 2026

The Middletown Common Council held a community meeting on July 9, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Municipal Building Common Council Chamber and remotely via WebEx. The meeting was called to order with a pledge of allegiance, and the council clerk read the call of the meeting. Mayor Eugene Pino presided. Council members present included Tony Gennaro, Chine Fulton, Darnell Ford, and Linda Salafi (attending remotely). The meeting consisted solely of public comments and a brief announcement from the Mayor, followed by adjournment. Public Comments & Testimony - Ed Mickow (76 Pearl Street) spoke about his ongoing concerns regarding the Route 9 project. He expressed distrust of the Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) and questioned the connection between a planned DOT meeting in August about a railroad bridge and the larger Route 9 project. He noted that a proposal to turn Court Street into a one-way street raised suspicions, as he feared it could serve as a feeder road for increased traffic from the Covanta development. Mickow stated that crash data from the Connecticut State crash repository showed no accidents at the intersection of Court Street in the past three years, contradicting safety justifications. He recommended that the city hire a neutral traffic engineer to review plans, as the city lacks such expertise. - Rogers Pilant (80 Round Hill Road) addressed concerns about transparency in city government. He cited three examples: 1) A meeting with Wesleyan University students and alumni about the university's financial contribution to the city; he noted no follow-up or public report on outcomes. 2) A commercial license issued for activity on the Guida Farm Conservation Area without clear public communication or commission review. He filed a Freedom of Information request on April 29, 2026, and finally received documentation on July 7, 2026 (the evening of a previous meeting), which he forwarded to council members. He stated that the farmer involved was "misinformed". 3) The proposal to change Court Street traffic direction, which Councilman Darnell Ford, chair of the Public Safety Commission, first learned about from the newspaper, not from staff or the administration. Pilant called for department heads to follow established processes and brief commissions and councils before major decisions. - Donna German (identifying as Joe Guida's niece) addressed the same Guida Farm issue, stating that the gentleman placing flowers in the hay lot still appears unaware that he must vacate. She asked the council to ensure he is informed so that they are not caught off guard when they bring in tractors. Discussion Items Mayor Eugene Pino provided an announcement regarding the Route 9 project. He stated that he received a call from the DOT commissioner confirming a public forum for the Route 9 plan (currently 60-70% complete) will be held on November 18, 2026 at 6:30 PM at Middletown High School, in a hybrid format. He clarified that the August meeting about the railroad bridge is a separate matter, not directly related to the Route 9 planning group, but was scheduled because the bridge project is a $50 million undertaking. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The meeting was adjourned after public comments concluded. - The Mayor announced the date and location of the Route 9 public forum (November 18, 2026, 6:30 PM, Middletown High School, hybrid). - No immediate actions or referrals were made on the transparency concerns raised by Rogers Pilant or the traffic engineering suggestion by Ed Mickow.

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 50% · TRANSPARENCY POLICY 18% · TRANSPORTATION SAFETY 17% · PROCEDURAL 15%
58
JUL 8, 2026 · MIDDLETOWN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL & COMMISSIONS
Public Safety Commission Meeting (Fire Department) - July 8, 2026

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting was held on June 15, 2026, but the official record assigns it to July 8, 2026. This summary uses the date provided in the instruction. The Public Safety Commission meeting for the Fire Department convened at 6:52 PM in 208 City Hall and via WebEx, adjourning at 7:09 PM. Chief Albert presented a detailed monthly report covering operations, staffing, apparatus, training, and financial challenges. The commission approved the previous meeting's minutes and received updates on several capital projects and equipment leases. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the May 18, 2026 meeting (corrected from 2025 to 2026) were approved unanimously with no discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during either public hearing segment. Discussion Items - Chief Albert's Monthly Report: The department handled 392 calls in the month, the highest volume on record, about 40 calls more than the previous busiest month. Mutual aid was provided to South Fire District, and a drone assisted the police department in the Westlake area. - Staffing and Overtime: Overtime remains extremely heavy due to two light-duty assignments, two workers’ compensation cases, one FMLA leave, and one 400-day military deployment. The department has used over 1,500 hours of Connecticut Paid Sick Leave in the first full year of the program, representing approximately $100,000 in firefighter pay alone. Chief Albert commended members for stepping up during vacation season. - Apparatus Update – Engine 1: Engine 1 has been out of service for nearly two months awaiting custom-ordered leaf spring shackles. The spare apparatus (Engine 4, a 2008 model) is now accumulating wear. Chief Albert noted the supply chain issue persists despite the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. - Apparatus Replacement Program: Chief Albert discussed the need to replace Engine 3 (2008) soon. Custom-built engines cost $1.1 million with a three-year delivery time, while ready-made engines are available for $750,000–$800,000 with a few months’ lead time. He recommended exploring stock models to avoid further delays and inflation-driven price increases. The previous two engines were purchased through ARPA and CDBG grants; no dedicated replacement fund currently exists. - Cross Street Fire Station Bond: The bond was approved. Chief Albert thanked the commission and is working with the chief of staff to form a formal building committee. - Training Building: The purchase order has been posted, and an additional $100,000 in state funding (identified by Red Belton and earmarked in the state budget) was secured. The funds will be available in August or September and will come before the committee and finance department for a change order. - Gas Meter Lease Program: The department spends $5,000 annually on repairs for aging gas detection meters. A trial of a cloud-based lease program (also $5,000/year) includes self-calibrating meters, immediate replacement of broken units, and data logging to reduce liability. The trial runs through July 1, and a year-to-year contract is being considered. - Telecommunications Report: The dispatch center has 19 dispatchers, one vacant position released, and a deputy director position in background checks. They handled approximately 7,600 incidents, including 2,427 911 calls and 5,488 routine calls. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: Unanimous. - Apparatus Planning: The commission acknowledged the need to establish a long-term apparatus replacement program and to consider ready-made engines to control costs and delivery times. - Training Building Funding: The additional $100,000 in state funding will be formally presented to the commission and finance department for approval when available. - Gas Meter Lease: The trial phase will be evaluated after July 1; a decision on a lease contract will follow. - Cross Street Fire Station: Next steps include forming a building committee. - Meeting Adjourned: Motion to adjourn carried unanimously at 7:09 PM.

PUBLIC SAFETY 42% · PROCEDURAL 25% · ENGINEERING AND INFRASTRUCTURE 15% · PERSONNEL MATTERS 11%
59
JUL 8, 2026 · MIDDLETOWN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL & COMMISSIONS
Middletown Public Safety Commission Meeting - July 8, 2026

The meeting was called to order at approximately 6:00 PM. The commission approved the minutes from May 18, 2026, and received updates from Police Chief Crossdac on department operations, community programs, and fiscal status. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned at 6:50 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the May 18, 2026, meeting were approved unanimously with no discussion or opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during either the initial or reopened public hearing periods. Chief's Report - Officer Accolades: Chief Crossdac announced the addition of K9 Officer Newton and his dog Sonar, who will work day shifts. Officer Brendan Spencer received the Exchange Club Officer of the Year award for 2026. - Community Partnership: The Middletown Police Department received a YMCA community partnership award for their assistance with incidents at the YMCA men's residence, including an untimely death of a resident handled with empathy. - Monthly Reports: - Overtime balance: $213,000 in the red for overtime replacement line as of May end. Remaining budget for June: $265,000. - Private duty line revenue exceeded the $750,000 delta target, resulting in a positive balance used for vehicle maintenance and replacement. - Community Programs: - PAL program active with partnerships (e.g., barber program, boxing program). Summer programming includes integrating School Resource Officers into PAL. Building updates involve minor renovations. - Pride event and Memorial Day parade proceeded without incidents. - DARE graduation held; Officer Murphy involved. - Cadet program: met weekly, ages 14–21, current enrollment in high teens to low 20s (target 25–30). Officer Bloom is the contact. - Incident Statistics: May saw 605 criminal investigations, 130 arrests, 3 DUIs, and 1,907 traffic stops. - Accreditation Review: Annual review conducted by an outside reviewer from North Carolina focusing on policies for pursuits, body cameras, and Flock camera data sharing. The department is finalizing a contract with Flock for a first response drone, pending council approval. Chief Crossdac praised the data protection work of Attorney Bright Smith. - Training: The department uses Kinetic training; implicit bias and workplace harassment training are planned, often piggybacking on city-wide offerings. New Business - Range Use Partnership: Chief Crossdac reported that the Cromwell Police Department has expressed interest in using the Middletown police range for annual qualification (4 days per year). A potential memorandum of understanding (MOU) is being explored with FBI partners. No financial impact is expected at this stage, and the commission was notified for informational purposes; no vote was taken. Key Outcomes - The commission unanimously approved the May 18, 2026, meeting minutes. - The chief will continue negotiations on the range use MOU with Cromwell and FBI partners and will present a finalized agreement to the commission. - No further business was discussed; the meeting adjourned by unanimous vote at 6:50 PM.

PUBLIC SAFETY 59% · PROCEDURAL 28% · YOUTH PROGRAMS 13%
60
JUL 8, 2026 · MIDDLETOWN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL & COMMISSIONS
Middletown Zoning Board of Appeals Special Meeting – July 8, 2026

The Middletown Zoning Board of Appeals convened a special meeting on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The board approved prior meeting minutes, conducted a public hearing for a variance request at 169 Cross Street, and tabled a second variance request for lack of a quorum. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (May 7, 2026): The minutes of the May 7, 2026 regular meeting were approved by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments during the public comment period or during the public hearing. Public Hearing – V2026-2: 169 Cross Street Garage Variance - Applicant/Agent: Paul Pizzo, Landmark Architects, representing the City of Middletown Fire Department. - Request: A variance of Section 2.2.3 of the Middletown Zoning Code to reduce rear and side yard setbacks to 5 feet, permitting construction of a 2,016 square foot, three-bay garage in the R-15 zone. - Stated Need: The existing fire station has outlived its useful life; interior renovations are underway. The fire chief requested a garage to store boats and equipment currently kept outside, and to house an additional apparatus now stored at the Water and Sewer Department. The station was built for a four-person shift but now has eight personnel and more vehicles. - Setback Details: The side yard setback would be reduced to 5 feet; the rear yard would also be reduced to 5 feet because the actual property line is approximately 10 feet from the fence line, which sits on Wesleyan University property (Wesleyan is aware and does not object). - Board Questions and Deliberation: Members asked about alternative placement (none feasible), the nature of the hardship (increased station capacity and personnel), and parking impacts (a few spaces lost, but still sufficient; dispatch is relocating in about a year). Board members expressed support, finding the hardship legitimate and the site the only workable option. Key Outcomes - Motion to Close Public Hearing: Passed unanimously. - Motion to Approve V2026-2: Passed unanimously, granting the variance for the 2,016 SF garage at 169 Cross Street. - V2026-3 (414 High Street) Tabled: The second variance request (a 35 SF addition seeking relief from side yard setbacks in the MXR zone, applicants Rachel & Christopher Drake) was tabled because member Nicholas Ficaro recused himself and Linda Guarino was absent, leaving the board without a quorum to act.

ZONING REGULATIONS 54% · PROCEDURAL 46%
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