Public Meetings - Middletown, Connecticut

The Design Review Board met on June 10, 2026, to consider two main agenda items: a proposed exterior renovation of a historic circa-1730s house at 210 Trips Road, and a presentation from Wesleyan University regarding a major redevelopment of its low-rise and high-rise housing complex along William Street, which would require a zoning map amendment. The board approved the renovation with conditions and expressed general support for the university's vision while requesting a site walk to further evaluate the streetscape context. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes from the April 2026 meeting by motion, second, and unanimous vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments during either the initial public comment period or the later opportunity. Discussion Items - Item 4.1: Proposed Exterior Renovation at 210 Trips Road The general contractor for homeowner Brian Kubek presented plans to restore the nearly 300-year-old historic house. The existing windows and siding are beyond repair due to dry rot, woodpecker damage, and general dilapidation. The proposal originally included aluminum-clad wood windows and cementitious (HardiePlank) siding, aiming to match the historical appearance. Board members discussed window specifications, preferring wood frames over aluminum, and requested an eight-over-twelve asymmetrical sash (mullion pattern) with simulated divided lights and mullions on both sides matching the original profile. The siding reveal was to be kept identical. The contractor agreed to use wood windows and follow the board's guidance. The board also acknowledged the owner's commitment to preserving the historic character. - Item 4.2: Presentation and Discussion of Modifying Zoning Boundaries – Wesleyan University Housing Plan Rich Carello (attorney) and Jeff Murphy (campus planner) introduced the university's internal study of residential life needs. Joined by Carla Cheruzzi and Vinicius Gorgati of Sasaki Associates, they presented a conceptual plan to redevelop the low-rise and high-rise complex adjacent to Traverse Square, which currently houses about 10% of students. The project proposes building 200–225 new beds for sophomores and juniors in apartment and dormitory style, allowing removal of the low-rise and either renovating or replacing the eight-story high-rise. Key design concepts include a new accessible green space, improved pedestrian connectivity between Main Street and campus, and a complete-streets upgrade for William Street. The plan also includes potential brownfield remediation of the former Four City Cleaners site downhill from the power plant. To realize the project, the university seeks to rezone its properties in that block from Downtown Village District (DVD) to Institutional Development (ID), and rezone 44 Hamlin Street (former preschool) to MX (Mixed Use) for art studios. The board discussed the scope and process, acknowledging the need for a zone map amendment by the Planning & Zoning Commission. Members expressed favorable initial impressions, praising the connectivity and open space, but noted the complexity and requested a site walk to study the actual streetscape. The board also discussed that the DVD zone gives this board purview over exterior changes, and that the reduction of the DVD area could be considered for the right project. Chair indicated a plan to arrange a field trip with board members and possibly Wesleyan representatives. Key Outcomes - Renovation at 210 Trips Road: Approved by motion (unanimous) with conditions: windows must be wood, with eight-over-twelve asymmetrical divided lights, mullions on both sides matching original profile, and siding reveal preserved. The contractor will relay the conditions to the owner. - Wesleyan Zoning Discussion: No formal vote. The board directed the chair to coordinate with the city planner and Wesleyan to schedule a site walk (likely before the July Planning & Zoning meeting) to better evaluate the William Street corridor. The board's informal consensus was that the project concept is attractive and that a zone change is not a hard no, but further detail and public input are needed.

Note on date discrepancy: The transcript header states the meeting occurred on June 9, 2026, but the instruction provided specifies June 10, 2026. This summary uses the date from the instruction. The meeting was called to order at 5:32 PM. The committee approved the previous meeting minutes, discussed the formation of a subcommittee to review construction manager RFP responses, and received an update on the project timeline from the architect. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the April 21, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (all in favor, no opposed or abstentions). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public session. Discussion Items - Construction Manager RFP Subcommittee: Chair Kelly Sweeney announced that the city received three responses to the RFP for a construction manager (CM). A subcommittee is needed to review the proposals, score them, and conduct interviews. The subcommittee will include staff (Randall from the architect's team and Marco) and at least one member from TSKP (the architecture firm). The timeline: interviews should be scheduled within the next few weeks, with a recommendation to the full committee by late June or early July, followed by council approval (potentially through FNG committee and full council) which adds about a month. The architect noted that the CM is needed by September to begin estimating the schematic design package, which is expected to be completed in September. - Subcommittee Composition: Volunteers were requested. Councilwoman Fulton, Councilwoman Linda Salafia, and Chair Kelly Sweeney were nominated from the council. Harold Panciera and Molly Carta volunteered from the public members. Patrick expressed interest but could not serve due to travel. The committee decided to proceed with these five members plus staff (Randall and Marco) and left a vacancy to be filled later if needed. The subcommittee was approved unanimously. - Updated Timeline: Architect Randall reported that the design contract is now in place. His team has released an environmental consultant to sample for hazardous materials and a laser scanning firm to create a 3D model of the original building. The surveyor is being held until the committee decides on potential property acquisitions. That discussion is scheduled for the next regular meeting, with materials to be provided. The goal is to complete a schematic design package with cost estimate by September and present it to the committee in October for approval to move to design development. Key Outcomes - Subcommittee Approved: The motion to form a subcommittee consisting of Kelly Sweeney, Councilwoman Fulton, Councilwoman Linda Salafia, Harold Panciera, Molly Carta, plus staff Randall and Marco, passed unanimously. The subcommittee will immediately begin scheduling meetings to review RFP responses and conduct interviews. - Next Steps: The subcommittee will coordinate via email to set a first meeting. The full committee will hold a discussion on property acquisition at its next regular meeting (date not specified). The architect will provide materials to inform that discussion.

The Public Safety Commission of Middletown, Connecticut, met on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 6:40 PM. The meeting was called to order, and the agenda included approval of previous minutes, a public hearing, and a report from Fire Chief Albert. The meeting adjourned at 6:47 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (April 27, 2026): Moved by Councilman Darnell Ford, seconded. Approved unanimously with no discussion or opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing portion for agenda items or for matters not on the agenda. There were no attendees in room 208 or online via WebEx. Discussion Items - Chief Albert's Report: - Correspondence: The fire department received a thank-you letter from a woman involved in a vehicle incident where a car went over a drop of about four to five feet and rolled over. She praised the professionalism of the responding crew. - Monthly Statistics: 313 calls for service; no station coverage used in Merrigan; a small fire of promo responded to; mutual aid calls to South Fire for medicals. - Events: Partnered with the Police Department to deliver an active shooter tabletop discussion/drill at Liberty Bank. The event was deemed successful, and plans to expand with more tabletop exercises for Liberty Bank employees were noted. Also attended the mental health event at Harvard Park, the Kids Safety Day, and the fishing derby. - Training: Training slowed down in preparation for final TRT training for the year. The AFG grant for vehicle rescue training will begin the following week, with four deliveries scheduled; the first two start next week, and the final two in September/October 2027. The entire department will be trained to the technician level in vehicle and machinery rescue. - Old Business – Overtime: Overtime remains heavy due to vacancies, FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act), workers' compensation, military leave, and paid sick leave. Two FMLA returns are expected this week. - Job Description: The job description for a mechanic position is going to the General Counsel Committee (GCC) for discussion and approval. - Facilities: No updates on HQ or Cross Street. The company providing the training building has obtained all required bonds, insurance, and licenses; the process is moving forward. - Citywide EMS: 865 calls with only one mutual aid ambulance used. - Telecoms Report: 19 dispatchers; two positions remain on hold (status unclear after budget adoption). Three candidates remain for the deputy director position, with interviews scheduled that week. Total incidents: approximately 6,600; 911 calls: 2,130; routine calls: 5,296. - Councilwoman Salafia's Question (off record): A question about a personal matter involving Brian's daughter was asked but not discussed on the public record due to lack of permission. No further details provided. Key Outcomes - The meeting adjourned at 6:47 PM. No other motions or votes were taken.

The Middletown Police Department Public Safety Commission met in a hybrid format on June 9, 2026, at 6:47 PM. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, a public hearing (no speakers), a report from Deputy Chief Davis, and a brief new business item. The meeting adjourned at 6:53 PM. Note: The transcript states the meeting date as May 18, 2026, which conflicts with the provided date. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the minutes of the April 27, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during the public hearing for agenda matters or for non-agenda matters; the public hearing was closed. Discussion Items - Deputy Chief Davis delivered an update, expressing pride in recent officer achievements and acknowledging community appreciation. Key items included: - Officer Spencer will receive the Exchange Club Salute to Connecticut's Finest Officer of the Year award on Thursday at the Aqua Turf. - Appreciation letters were received from a family following a rollover crash at Mondo, addressed to Officer DeMassa and other responding officers. - Public patrol and the detective unit received recognition for solving a Hartford homicide, with the suspect in custody within two hours. - A threat to a city worker involving a facsimile firearm was resolved within 20 minutes, with two brothers taken into custody. - Replacement overtime increased due to significant firearms training as the department transitions to a new firearm platform; the final training week is upcoming. - The department is currently down five officers, including two on worker's compensation. Training reductions have been implemented to manage expenses, and one officer is expected to attend the academy in August or September. - Community engagement included the Middlesex County High School Career Fair, Dingwall Golf Tournament, 5K Road Race, the fire chiefs' Kid Health and Safety Fair, a mental health fair, St. Sebastian's Festival, and the Liberty Bank Table Talks active shooter tabletop exercise. - Crime statistics: 5,263 calls for service in the reporting period, up from 4,600 in March. There has been an uptick in north end quality-of-life issues, leading to meetings with downtown stakeholders and the designation of officers to downtown patrols. Six overdose calls were reported, and the Crisis Intervention Team's caseload is significantly up. - A new performance evaluation system has been implemented; each officer will be evaluated by their commanding officer up through the captain. - Under new business, the commission discussed the cannabis ordinance and open container ordinances, and confirmed a $1 million grant for automatic traffic enforcement cameras. The grant confirmation was noted as previously voted on, so no further action was taken. Key Outcomes - Approved the April 27, 2026 minutes unanimously. - Closed the public hearing with no public comment. - Acknowledged Deputy Chief Davis's report and the new business items; the grant confirmation was already approved. - Adjourned at 6:53 PM.

The Common Council met on June 4, 2026. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, a new business item for an advance request from Cross Street, and an update on ARPA expenditures. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (December 10, 2025): Motion made and seconded; approved unanimously with no discussion. Discussion Items - Cross Street Training and Academic Center – Advance Request 4: Claire Collins presented the request for $250,000. She detailed that $160,588.74 of the prior draw (draw 3) had been fully reconciled (covering February–March), with additional expenses under review. After this advance, $153,986.69 would remain to be spent. Funds support rent/utility assistance, food vouchers, medical/mental health treatment for uninsured, prescription assistance, church reconciliation, office expenses, insurance, supplies, emergency direct assistance, and payroll. - ARPA Expenditures Update (as of April 30, 2026): Claire Collins reported cumulative spending: City projects – $10,325,807.53; small business subrecipients – $4,069,332.81; nonprofit subrecipients – $5,762,414.77; total expended – $20,157,625.11 (92.8% of ARPA award). Remaining subrecipient balances were noted: Business Foundation of Middlesex County – $36,588.79; YMCA – $25,911.18; Middletown United Fathers – $41,742.18; Oddfellows – approximately $45,995.56 (about $3,000 after pending invoice); DFC – $448,845.64 (no drawdown since Nov 2025). All subrecipients are now compliant with documentation requirements. Key Outcomes - Cross Street Advance Request 4: Motion to authorize the $250,000 advance was moved and seconded. One council member abstained (reason unclear, referencing “capacity” and “remaining members of the Passports Mayor”). The motion carried with ayes and no opposed votes. - Meeting Adjourned: Motion to adjourn passed unanimously.

The Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency of Middletown, Connecticut, held its regular meeting on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 7:00 P.M. in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building. The commission modified the agenda to hear a violation case first, then conducted a public hearing, adopted updated regulations and a new wetlands map, and accepted an application for a drive-through business for a future public hearing. Agenda Modification - On a motion, the commission voted unanimously to move item D (Notice of Violation) to the first item of the agenda. Notice of Violation – Chamberlain Hill Road - Environmental Planner James Sipperly reported that the city received complaints about work at the property of Amy and Erik Peterson at 120 Chamberlain Hill Road (the transcript refers to 126; the agenda states 120). The entire site had been graded and filled, and a lawn was being established. Sipperly determined that a pond was being filled. - The contractor agreed to stop, but the homeowner said the work would continue and the pond would be filled by the end of the week. A notice of violation was sent but returned as refused. - Sipperly said he was told not to return to the property; the next step will be to arrange service by a marshal or police officer. He stated he will make that happen without a formal motion. - The chair also raised the ongoing Randolph Road case concerning pallets placed in wetlands. Sipperly said the city attorney will send another letter and may pursue court action if the owner does not comply. A soil scientist had previously recommended a 100-foot wetland delineation on each side of the pallets. Public Comments & Testimony - The public hearing on the revised regulations and map was opened and closed with no members of the public speaking. Public Hearing – Revised Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Regulations and Official Map - The public hearing was opened and closed with no public comment. Old Business – Adoption of Revised Regulations and Map - Sipperly explained that the revised regulations update the city’s regulations to align with state model regulation changes. The new official wetlands map is the first such map for Middletown; it was derived from USDA soil surveys and is intended as a guide, not a substitute for a site-specific soil scientist determination. - A motion was made to approve both the revised regulations and the map. After discussion, the commission adopted friendly amendments to remove the word “official” from the map title and add a prominent disclaimer that the map is for reference only and that wetlands must be confirmed by on-the-ground survey. The motion passed unanimously. New Business – 797 Washington Street Drive-Through Application - Staff introduced application W2026-6 from Richard D. Carella/Updike, Kelly & Spellacy, PC, for site grading and development of a drive-through business at 797 Washington Street. The proposal includes a credit union and a Chick-fil-A restaurant, with two historic houses to be demolished. - Sipperly stated the project is within the upland review area and will not disturb an adjacent wetland band. He recommended accepting the application. - The commission voted to accept the application and schedule a public hearing for July 1, 2026, due to the site’s high visibility and anticipated public interest. Army Corps Hydrilla Treatment Correspondence - The commission received notice that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will treat hydrilla in Pamecha Pond with an herbicide during June 22–26 and July 13–17, with a possible September follow-up. Sipperly listed other sites where the treatment has been used. The commission discussed potential wildlife impacts but noted the federal project does not require local approval. Minutes - The minutes of the April 1, 2026 regular meeting were approved; one member abstained because she was not yet on the commission for that meeting. Adjournment - The meeting adjourned by unanimous consent.

The Middletown Common Council met on June 1, 2026 at 7:00 PM to address a full agenda including a bond ordinance for Fire Station No. 2, tax abatements, Route 9 traffic changes, Board of Education funding, and other resolutions. The meeting included three public hearings and extensive discussion on the Route 9 project, the Guida conservation area, and school budget gaps. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of two special meetings on May 4, 2026 (with item 3C deleted by amendment). - Appropriations (all passed without dissent): - Health: $2,800 for sanitarians and housing code enforcement stipends. - General Counsel: $9,590 for UPSEU arbitration legal services. - Water & Sewer: $80,000 for replacement water meters. - Department reports and grant confirmations (items 7A through 7P) approved en bloc, including grants for RM Keating Historical Park ($1,000,000), Connecticut River dock replacement ($1,472,736), opioid settlement ($73,171.06), speed safety camera program ($1,000,000), digital health inspection ($15,000), kids health & safety event ($5,000), waste reduction ($35,094.40), historic document preservation ($35,000), Board of Education miscellaneous grants ($735,526.62) and food services ($253,285.84), recreation activity space renovation ($50,000). - Payment of all city bills approved. - Resolutions 10C through 10H, 10J, 10M, 10N approved as routine (see Key Outcomes for specifics). - Mayor's appointments approved after a friendly amendment adding "to complete" for Clean Energy Task Force reappointments. Public Comments & Testimony - Vinny Raffino (AFSCME Local 466 president) criticized the Baker Tilly compensation study as inaccurate and outdated, stating the union was excluded from proper input. He urged the council to restart the study and noted that unfilled city positions contradict the need for a compensation review. - Keisha McWilliams (Arts and Culture Coordinator) and Debbie Shapiro (Vice Chair of America 250 Committee) updated on 250th anniversary activities, including banners on Main Street and an all-county parade on July 4, 2026. They requested support for the parade resolution. - Dorothy Van Ryn opposed the retail flower farm at the Guida conservation area, citing blocked public access, chains as safety hazards, and disruption of fields. She argued the land was intended for passive recreation and asked the city to stop the retail operation. - Mark Durbach read a letter from five PTAs urging the council to prevent $180,000 in additional cuts to school staff and programs, warning of negative impacts on students. - Matthew Banis (parent and teacher) expressed concern that even with the $505,000 gap closure, teacher cuts would still occur. He urged continued creative funding solutions. - Brooke Carta (representing multiple education unions) called for more city funding, noting the $505,000 agreement leaves a $385,000 gap and threatens actual job losses, not just vacancies. - Ed McKillone supported increased education funding and strongly urged passage of the Route 9 resolution, criticizing CT DOT for excluding the council from discussions. - Jennifer Alexander shared firsthand details of changing traffic projections (from 2-3,000 cars to 6-7,000) and engineering concerns about the railroad bridge, advocating for public accountability. - Brian Stevens and Diane Gervais (Amato's Toy and Hobby) supported the Route 9 resolution, with Gervais warning of harm to downtown businesses. - Ron Furman (school social worker) warned against closing Spencer Elementary School due to budget gaps, stating voters would remember the council's decisions in November. - Barry Chernoff supported the Route 9 resolution, citing threats to the city's water supply sand lens and the need for transparency. - Daniel Long noted that Middletown students have fallen two grade levels below the state average over the last decade, urging more education funding. - Sigrid Atherton (teacher and parent) expressed disappointment that no council members attended the March 17 BOE workshop, calling for more engagement. - Sally Tomiko supported the Route 9 resolution, stating the DOT prioritizes highway speed over community concerns. - Rogers Pilot asked for full transparency on the Guida property, including the license terms and long-term plan, noting personal observations of water storage and hydrant meter installation. Discussion Items - Board of Education Funding: Mayor Nocera announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to close a $505,000 gap using $255,000 from the 2020/2025 infrastructure bonds (for eligible capital repairs such as gym floor $60,000, acoustic shells $45,000, roof/window/fire panel repairs $150,000) and $250,000 from the city's Capital Non-Recurring (CNR) fund. The city is also exploring electricity savings of up to $200,000 for the BOE. Councilmembers requested documentation of all BOE cuts and the MOU text. - Guida Property: The mayor stated a nine-month license for the flower farm, with the city seeking alternative sites (Zoars Pond, River Road). The property will be restored to original condition. Chains blocking public access were supposed to be removed but a speaker reported they were still present. - Route 9: The mayor met with the DOT commissioner, who promised a public session on final designs (expected late fall). Councilmembers voiced frustration over lack of transparency and the need for a town-hall hearing. The council passed a resolution (see Key Outcomes). - Riverfront Master Plan: Environmental testing continues; a significant hazard notice at Jackson Corrugated is being filed; soil borings at Peterson and sewage treatment plant begin June 8. - Anti-Racism Task Force: Councilman Ford reported on cultural events (lunch and learns), scholarships (nine Q Williams scholarships awarded), and upcoming diversity/equity training for department heads. - Bond Reports: Mayor outlined a future referendum for $12 million in school roofs and $35 million for a parking arcade at the police station site, potentially including housing development. Key Outcomes - Bond Ordinance for Fire Station No. 2 (10A): Passed (9-0-1 roll call, 2 absent) – $750,000 for demolition, remediation, and renovations. - Route 9 Resolution (10B): Passed – requests CT DOT to schedule a town-hall hearing within 90 days; requires council approval before mayor signs off on changes; mandates DOT report directly to council; seeks state legislative delegation assistance. - St. Vincent's Commons Tax Abatement (10C): Passed. - Aaron Pease House Historic Tax Abatement (10D): Passed. - Easement Acquisition (10E): Approved for storm drainage/sanitary sewer at 700 Ridgewood Road. - Job Description Revisions (10F, 10G): Approved for Assistant Chief Building Official and Master Fire Mechanic positions. - America 250 Parade (10H): Approved – city to host all-county parade on July 4, 2026, with expenditure cap of $33,200; date corrected from July 5 to July 4. - Cigna Health/Dental Contract (10I): Approved as amended – three-year contract from Oct 1, 2026 to June 30, 2029; two one-year extension options removed; medical claims projected at $17.33M (partial FY27), $24.704M (FY28), $26.656M (FY29); dental claims $2.35M (partial), $3.239M (FY28), $3.368M (FY29). - Bulky Waste Fund Budget (10J): Approved for FY 2026-2027. - Noise Ordinance Amendment (10K): Sent to Economic Development Commission for review. - Nonprofit Tax Exemption Amendment (10L): Sent to Economic Development Commission for review. - Port Authority Grant (10M): Approved – $1,472,736 for Connecticut River dock replacement. - HUD Grant (10N): Approved – $1,000,000 for RM Keating Historical Enterprise Park improvements. - Appointments: Approved with friendly amendment; Russell Library Board of Trustees and Clean Energy Task Force reappointments confirmed. - Board of Education MOU: MOU to be finalized and shared with council; council requested documentation of all BOE budget cuts.

The Middletown Common Council held a special meeting on June 1, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber and remotely via WebEx. The meeting was a workshop for council members to pose questions to city directors regarding items on the upcoming regular council agenda. No formal votes were taken; the session focused on discussion and clarification. DOT Route 9 Project (Traffic Light Removal and Street Reconfigurations) - Councilman DeFredo asked the Police Chief to explain his role as the city’s chief traffic authority in approving the proposed state road changes, including making Rapallo Avenue one-way and adding a traffic circle on River Road. The Chief stated his decision would be based on public safety and community input, and he expressed support for public vetting. - The Chief acknowledged concerns about cut-through traffic on residential streets in the north end, but noted that state simulations show improved traffic flow and reduced accidents on Route 9 after removing the traffic lights. He emphasized the need for more community meetings before his final sign-off. - Councilwoman Blackwell asked if the Chief had seen the designs; he confirmed he had been involved from the start and supported a public hearing. - Fire Chief was asked about emergency response impacts on narrow streets like Green and Ferry under the proposed one-way flow. He said his department had not been consulted on street width or aerial truck clearance in recent meetings, but he would raise those concerns at future DOT meetings. Councilman DeFredo stressed that fire safety was critical and that the Fire Chief’s independent assessment should not be overshadowed by DOT’s traffic goals. Saybrook Road Reconstruction and Pedestrian Access Project - Acting Deputy Director Brian Gardner and Acting Director O’Brien answered detailed questions about the multi-million-dollar project, which has been in development for over a decade. - Gardner stated that the LOT SIP grant award is approximately $3.7 million, while estimated total project costs range from $5.0 to $5.3 million. The deficit would be covered by pre-existing road bonds or revenue from the speed camera program. No LOT SIP funds have been drawn yet; the city has spent roughly $686,000 on design from its own coffers. - Councilwoman Blackwell asked about communication with the Complete Streets committee regarding the elimination of bike lanes. O’Brien confirmed that the committee supported the revised plan, including a bituminous multi-use path instead of on-road bike lanes, which was deemed safer. - Several council members expressed frustration that key information (e.g., sketches of the new road footprint, feasibility study) was not yet available. O’Brien promised to provide the feasibility study and all supporting documents to the council. - Councilwoman Blackwell noted that the scope of work has changed over nine amendments; she requested clarity on what sections of Saybrook Road would be reconstructed (from East Main to Tryon Street, with additional improvements near Aircraft Road). - Councilwoman Salafia noted that the city has held the state grant since 2019 and may lose it if the project does not proceed soon. - Councilwoman Hart echoed concerns about receiving information late, but acknowledged that the current pivot in design (reducing scope to save construction costs) could enable the project to move forward. Health Insurance RFP and Contract Extension - Councilman DeFredo questioned the proposed resolution that would authorize the mayor to execute the health insurance contract and approve up to two one-year extensions without further council approval. The RFP was for a three-year term with two optional one-year extensions. - The acting director responded that the extension language was included in the RFP to attract better bids and is standard practice. DeFredo argued that this language bypasses council oversight and proper checks and balances on large expenditures. - The discussion highlighted that three bids were received for medical coverage and four for dental. No decision was made; the item is expected to come to the council for a vote in July. Key Outcomes - No formal resolutions were adopted during this workshop. The council heard presentations and asked questions to inform future votes. - A subsequent workshop will be scheduled later in June to continue discussion on the Saybrook Road project, and council members were asked to submit specific questions in advance. - The health insurance contract and the DOT Route 9 resolution (which includes a public hearing) are expected to be voted on in July.

The Middletown Common Council held a special hybrid meeting on June 1, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Council Chamber and via WebEx. The sole purpose was to receive a presentation and conduct a question-and-answer session regarding the Saybrook Road Reconstruction and Pedestrian Access Project and a proposed amendment to the city’s contract with Cardinal Engineering for design services. No votes on the amendment were taken during this informational meeting. Discussion Items - Project Presentation: Brian Gardner, Acting Deputy Director of Public Works, delivered a detailed presentation covering the project’s history, funding, design challenges, and revised scope. Key points included: - The project originates from the 2013 Complete Streets Master Plan prioritizing Saybrook Road. - The road is in poor condition, lacks sidewalks, and has no safe pedestrian crossings; a well-worn path indicates heavy foot traffic. - The original plan (2016) was ambitious, widening the road and adding bike lanes and sidewalks on both sides, but required 39 property easements—most unattainable. Cost escalation from $2 million (2019) to $5.78 million (2022) due to inflation and added Wall Street work. - The revised plan (March 2025) eliminates bike lanes, eliminates the east-side sidewalk south of Wall Street, and removes all Wall Street work except a short connection. It instead proposes a 10-foot-wide bituminous concrete multi-use trail on the west side, milling and overlaying existing pavement except at intersections requiring full-depth reconstruction, and replacing the east-side sidewalk with extruded concrete curbing. - Property impacts reduced from 39 to 8 properties (one partial take, one signal easement, six slope easements, two sidewalk easements). - Construction cost estimated at $5–$5.3 million (preliminary). Funding includes $3.7 million from the state Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program (LOTCIP) through River COG, with the city covering design and non-participating costs. Design costs for the amendment are approximately $200,000, funded from the city’s enforcement program proceeds. - Crash data from UConn shows over 50 crashes in a five-year period at intersections along the corridor, particularly at Wall Street, Stop & Shop driveway, and East Main Street. - The project limits remain unchanged: from Tryon Street to East Main Street (near Walgreens). - Council Questions: Councilwoman Linda Salafia questioned the lack of detail on how traffic light intersections would be reconfigured, stating she needed a visual plan before approval. Mr. Gardner explained the intersections would be widened slightly to add proper turning lanes but acknowledged no detailed design yet. He offered to provide a preliminary schematic. The mayor clarified that the amendment before the council only funds the final design work leading to a public forum; no construction approval was sought at this meeting. Key Outcomes - The special meeting concluded with a motion (Councilwoman Blackwell, second Councilwoman Fulton) to adjourn the workshop. The motion passed unanimously by voice vote. The council then moved to a regular “questions of directors” agenda item. - No vote was taken on Amendment 9 to the Cardinal Engineering contract. The council indicated they would receive further information before any decision.