Middletown public meetings in 2021

Finance & Government Operations Commission

The Commission will discuss resolutions to apply for state grants for roof remodeling and telecommunication equipment. The agenda also includes confirmations of state funds for recycling education and crime prevention.

• $150,000 LoCIP grant application for roof repairs at 80 Harbor Drive
• $25,000 LoCIP grant application for telecommunication site batteries
• $2,000 state grant confirmation for Carton Council Recycling Education
• $25,000 state grant confirmation for JAG Violent Crime Prevention

The Finance & Government Operations Commission unanimously approved four items: a $150,000 LoCIP grant application for roof repairs at 80 Harbor Drive, a $25,000 LoCIP grant application for UPS batteries at the telecommunication site, a $25,000 state grant confirmation for Carton Council Recycling Education, and a $25,000 state grant confirmation for JAG Violent Crime Prevention. All votes were unanimous. The meeting also included approval of the December 1, 2021 minutes and reports on transfers, appropriations, investments, and expenditures.

• Approved $150,000 LoCIP grant application for roof repairs at 80 Harbor Drive (unanimous)
• Approved $25,000 LoCIP grant application for UPS batteries at telecommunication site (unanimous)
• Approved $25,000 state grant confirmation for Carton Council Recycling Education (unanimous)
• Approved $25,000 state grant confirmation for JAG Violent Crime Prevention (unanimous)
• Approved December 1, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Finance & Government Operations Commission

The commission will review grant applications and confirmations for various city projects. Items include funding for roof work at 80 Harbor Drive and solar panels for Farm Hill School. The meeting also includes reviews of several financial reports.

• $150,000 LoCIP grant application for roof repairs at 80 Harbor Drive
• $25,000 LoCIP grant application for telecommunication site batteries
• $25,000 State grant confirmation for JAG Violent Crime Prevention
• $2,000 State grant confirmation for recycling education
• Discussion regarding solar panels on Farm Hill School

Area Transit District

The Special Estuary Transit District Expansion Transition Committee is meeting to review a CT DOT progress update report and an implementation plan. The agenda also includes the Executive Director's report.

• CT DOT Progress Update Report
• Implementation Plan discussion
• Executive Director's Report

Sanitary Disposal District Commission

The Sanitary Disposal District Commission will review minutes from February 2021 and discuss sanitation delinquencies. The meeting also includes reviews of cardboard and tonnage reports and setting the 2022 meeting schedule.

• Approval of February 23, 2021 minutes
• Sanitation delinquencies
• 2022 meeting dates
• Cardboard report
• Tonnage report

Resource Recycling Advisory Council

The regular meeting of the Middletown Resource Recycling Advisory Commission scheduled for December 27, 2021, was cancelled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for January 24, 2022.

Code Enforcement Committee

The meeting agenda contains only a list of addresses under the City Fire and Office of the General Counsel departments. The document does not provide details on the nature of the items.

• 399 deKoven Drive
• 52 North Main Street
• 212 Sisk Street
• 20 White Road

The Code Enforcement Committee held a routine meeting with no public comment and no substantive decisions beyond approving the prior meeting's minutes. Department updates were mostly absent, but several ongoing property violation cases were discussed, including graffiti, illegal dumping, and fire code issues. No new enforcement actions were taken during this meeting.

• Approved November 24, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Insurance & Claims

The Insurance & Claims Committee will hold a special virtual meeting on December 22, 2021. The agenda includes an executive session to discuss strategy and negotiations regarding the pending opioid settlement claim.

• Discussion of strategy and negotiations for the pending opioid settlement claim

The Insurance and Claims Committee voted unanimously to approve the City of Middletown signing on to the proposed opioid distributor and manufacturer settlement class in Connecticut. The decision was made during a virtual special meeting on December 22, 2021, following an executive session on strategy and negotiations. No public members attended the public session.

• Approved signing on to the opioid settlement class in Connecticut (unanimous)
• Moved into executive session to discuss opioid settlement strategy (unanimous)
• Rose from executive session (unanimous)

80 Harbor Drive Renovation Building Committee

The scheduled meeting for the 80 Harbor Drive Renovation Building Committee on December 22, 2021, has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for January 12, 2022.

LGBTQIA+ Commission

The commission will review minutes from the November meeting and approve 2022 meeting dates. Discussion items include updates on various initiatives and LGBTQIA+ community safety in Middletown. Members will also begin planning for Middletown Pride 2022.

• Approval of 2022 meeting dates
• Discussion on LGBTQIA+ community safety
• Updates on Mintz+Hoke Proposal and Q+ Partnership
• Planning for Middletown Pride 2022
• Review of library-based events including a Pokémon-themed movie night

The Commission unanimously approved adding 'Safety for the LGBTQIA+ Community in Middletown' as a recurring initiative, addressing doxing and swatting concerns. They also approved the 2022 meeting schedule and the November 16, 2021 minutes. Updates were given on Pride 2022 planning, including a proposed event list and partnerships.

• Approved November 16, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Added Safety for LGBTQIA+ Community as recurring initiative (unanimous)

Russell Library Board of Trustees

The Russell Library Board of Trustees will review committee reports and discuss a community dialogue framework. The meeting includes motions to approve meeting calendars for January 2022 through January 2023 and the 2022-2023 fiscal year calendar.

• Approval of November 16, 2021, meeting minutes
• Review of Community Dialogue Framework
• Approval of January 2022–January 2023 meeting calendars
• Approval of 2022-2023 Fiscal Year Calendar
• Discussion regarding a climate survey

The Russell Library Board of Trustees adopted Video Meeting Guidelines, approved the January 2022–January 2023 board meeting calendar and the FY 22-23 calendar, and approved the November 16, 2021 minutes. The board also entered executive session to discuss strategy, personnel, contracts, and property. No public comments were made.

• Adopted Video Meeting Guidelines (unanimous)
• Approved January 2022–January 2023 board meeting calendar (unanimous)
• Approved FY 22-23 calendar (unanimous)
• Approved November 16, 2021 minutes (Fulton abstaining)
• Entered executive session at 7:28 p.m. (unanimous)
• Exited executive session at 7:44 p.m. (unanimous)

Firing Range Building Committee

The committee will discuss an FBI update and a report on range activity. The agenda contains no specific new business or items for decision.

• F.B.I. Update
• Report of Range Activity
• Next Steps

Board of Education

The Policy Committee is meeting to adopt, review, or delete several district policies. Key items include updates to health and safety protocols and child abuse reporting procedures.

• Adoption of Health and Safety Protocols (#C-19-001)
• New adoption of Child Abuse or Neglect Reporting policy (#4112.9)
• Review/replace of Purchasing Procedures (#3320)
• Replacement of Sexual Abuse Prevention and Education Program policy (#5145.511)
• Deletion of policies regarding Married/Pregnant Students and Insurance

Youth Service Bureau Advisory Board

The regular meeting for the Middletown Youth Services Bureau Advisory Board scheduled for December 21, 2021, was canceled. The next meeting is scheduled for January 18, 2022.

Inland / Wetlands & Water Courses Agency

The Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency is reviewing a request from the Public Works Department. The application seeks a five-year extension for Permit NO. 16-17 to conduct routine maintenance in and adjacent to inland wetlands and watercourses.

• Five-year extension request for Permit NO. 16-17 (routine maintenance)

The Inland/Wetlands & Watercourses Agency held a special meeting via WebEx and unanimously approved a five-year extension of General Permit No. 16-17, which was set to expire on January 4, 2022. The extension allows routine maintenance in and adjacent to wetlands and watercourses, and permits emergency repairs if there is an immediate threat to public health and safety. The agency also elected Jammie Middleton as chairman for the meeting due to the absence of the regular chair and vice chair.

• Elected Jammie Middleton as chairman for the meeting (unanimous)
• Approved 5-year extension of Permit No. 16-17 (unanimous)

Inland / Wetlands & Water Courses Agency

The Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency is reviewing an application from the Public Works Department. The request seeks a five-year extension for Permit NO. 16-17 to conduct routine maintenance in and adjacent to inland wetlands and watercourses.

• Five-year extension request for Permit NO. 16-17 regarding routine maintenance in and adjacent to inland wetlands and watercourses

Commission on Conservation & Agriculture

The Commission on Conservation and Agriculture meeting scheduled for December 21, 2021, has been cancelled. No items were discussed or decided.

Commission on Conservation & Agriculture

The Commission will review the Atkins Street open space parcel and discuss property updates for Sunshine Realty and Atkins Street. The agenda also includes discussions on agricultural conservation easement grants and an ATV issue proposal. Reports will cover trails, management plans, and environmental reviews.

• Review of Atkins Street Open Space parcel (Pleasant View Associates)
• NRCS grants for Agricultural Conservation Easements
• Tri-town and Land Trust ATV issue proposal
• Red Maple Swamp Environmental Review Team Assessment
• Wilcox & Guida Management Plans

Middletown Recreation Center Building Committee

The committee will review the November 17, 2021, minutes and discuss project updates and budget status. New business includes a $40,000 invoice from Landmark.

• Landmark Invoice - $40,000
• Project Update/Background
• Budget

Mattabassett District Board

The board will review the November 2021 check register and treasurer's reports. Staff presentations include updates on safety, energy, and water quality data. Committee reports from engineering, finance, and human resources are also scheduled.

• Review of November 2021 check register report
• Treasurer's report on FY 21-22 receipts and expenditures
• Staff reports on effluent quality and nitrogen levels
• Committee updates from Engineering, Finance, HR, Property Management, and Public Relations

The board unanimously approved the November 15 minutes, Treasurer's Report, Budget Statement, Staff Reports, 2021 Banking Resolution, and Finance Committee reports. No substantive policy decisions were made; actions were routine approvals. The Executive Director will add financial details to the Board Report for the Primary Tank Tunnel Project.

• Approved November 15, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report (unanimous)
• Accepted Budget Statement (unanimous)
• Accepted Staff Reports (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 Banking Resolution (unanimous)
• Approved November 16, 2021 Finance Committee report (unanimous)
• Approved December 14, 2021 Finance Committee report (unanimous)

Public Safety Commission

The Public Safety Commission will review monthly Fire Department reports regarding calls, events, and training. The agenda also includes updates on the Mass Vaccination Plan, Arrigoni Bridge, and various vehicle replacements.

• Fire Department monthly report (calls, events, and training)
• Mass Vaccination Plan and Arrigoni Bridge updates
• Updates on New Car 1, New Car 3, and Truck 1 repairs
• Discussion of overtime status and EMS response changes
• Active shooter committee and recruitment updates

The Public Safety Commission heard the fire chief's monthly report and discussed several ongoing issues, including pursuing an R2 transport license with Hartford Healthcare, the fate of aging alarm boxes, and replacing outdated protective gear. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only action was approving the previous meeting's minutes.

• Approved September 15 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed pursuing R2 transport license with Hartford Healthcare and Middlesex Hospital
• Discussed repairing or decommissioning 52 out-of-service alarm boxes
• Discussed replacing 42 sets of firefighter protective gear older than 10 years
• Discussed applying for AFG grant for ladder truck replacement

Public Safety Commission

The commission will review monthly reports on overtime balances and incident statistics. The agenda includes discussions regarding the proposed Police Athletic League program and new police vehicles. New business items include a J.A.G. Grant and lateral officer hiring.

• Proposed Police Athletic League (P.A.L.) Program
• New police vehicles
• J.A.G. Grant
• Lateral officer hires
• One civilian complaint from November

The Public Safety Commission unanimously approved a motion to proceed with the $25,000 Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) process, which will fund police equipment. The commission also supported the nomination of Captain Richard Davis as Deputy Chief, who will be presented to the Common Council. Additionally, the commission approved the November 15, 2021 minutes and set 2022 meeting dates for the third Monday of each month.

• Approved motion to proceed with $25,000 JAG grant process (unanimous)
• Approved November 15, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 meeting dates on third Monday of each month (unanimous)
• Supported nomination of Captain Richard Davis as Deputy Chief (no formal vote recorded)

Mayor's Safety Committee

The committee will review workers’ compensation injuries and motor vehicle accidents occurring between September 1 and November 30, 2021. The meeting includes presentations on preventing slips, trips, and falls as well as mindful eating. Members will also discuss city policy regarding belligerent or dangerous members of the public.

• Review of Workers’ Compensation Injuries and Motor Vehicle accidents (Sept 1 – Nov 30, 2021)
• Presentation: 'Preventing Slips, Trips and Falls'
• Presentation: 'Mindful Eating - Making Small Changes That Stick'
• Discussion of city policy on addressing belligerent or dangerous members of the public
• Approval of 2022 meeting schedule

The Mayor's Safety Committee met via Zoom and approved the minutes of the September 24, 2021 meeting. No training requests were made. Presentations were given on preventing slips, trips, and falls, and on mindful eating. Workers' compensation injuries and at-fault auto accidents from September to November 2021 were reviewed. The meeting adjourned at 9:45 AM.

• Approved minutes of September 24, 2021 meeting
• No training requests from departments
• Heard presentation on preventing slips, trips, and falls
• Heard presentation on mindful eating
• Reviewed workers' compensation injuries and at-fault auto accidents

Walter C. Jones Fund

The Walter C. Jones Fund Committee has cancelled its regularly scheduled December meeting. This notice was issued by the Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity Management.

Urban Forestry Commission

The Urban Forestry Commission meeting scheduled for December 16, 2021, is cancelled. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting.

Water Pollution Control Authority

The Water Pollution Control Authority is reviewing monthly fund balances and sewer consumption reports. The meeting includes discussions on good will adjustments for residents and a bid waiver for Pamecha Avenue. Staff will also provide updates on the Durham Water and Pameacha projects.

• Good Will Adjustment: Michael Kelly, 2 Millbrook Rd
• Good Will Adjustment: Jim Signa, 237 Poplar Rd
• Pamecha Avenue Bid Waiver memo
• Sewer CNR Transfers memo
• Inflow & Infiltration update

The Water Pollution Control Authority approved a refund of $8,650.74 to the property owner at 41 Lisa Lane for sewer use fees, after reducing the original $11,826.32 by a prior goodwill adjustment. The board also approved two goodwill adjustments, several fund transfers, and a bid waiver for the Pamecha Avenue sewer replacement project. All motions were approved unanimously.

• Approved $8,650.74 refund for 41 Lisa Lane sewer fees (unanimous)
• Approved $410.39 goodwill adjustment for 2 Millbrook Rd (unanimous)
• Approved $317.28 goodwill adjustment for 237 Poplar Rd (unanimous)
• Approved $135,000 transfer from WPCA Repair to Pump Station Repair (unanimous)
• Approved $65,000 transfer from WPCF Repair to Pump Station Repair (unanimous)
• Approved closing three GSIF funds and creating new $350,000 line for portable generators (unanimous)
• Approved $150,000 appropriation from GSIF for Pamecha Ave sewer replacement after bid waiver (unanimous)

School Readiness Council

The December 15, 2021, meeting of the Middletown School Readiness Council has been cancelled. There was no business scheduled for this meeting.

• Cancellation of the December 15 meeting

Arts Commission

The Middletown Commission on the Arts will discuss the 2022 50th Anniversary. The agenda also includes staff and committee reports and approval of November 17, 2021, minutes.

• Approval of November 17, 2021 meeting minutes
• Discussion regarding the 2022 50th Anniversary
• Staff and Committee reports

The Middletown Arts Commission met on December 15, 2021, and approved the November 17 meeting minutes and the agenda as written. They discussed old business, including the recommendation of Michael Arafeh as Music Ambassador for 2022, and approved minor edits to the MCA brochure. The commission also discussed public art projects, including using a display window on Main Street, and plans for the 50th anniversary, but no major decisions were made beyond routine approvals.

• Approved November 17, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous, Godburn abstained)
• Approved agenda as written (unanimous)
• Approved minor edits to MCA brochure
• Recommended Michael Arafeh as Music Ambassador for 2022

Arts Commission

The Middletown Commission on the Arts will discuss plans for its 50th anniversary in 2022. The meeting also includes reviews of staff and committee reports.

• Discussion of the 2022 50th Anniversary
• Approval of November 17, 2021 meeting minutes
• Review of staff and committee reports

Citizens Advisory Committee

The regular meeting of the Middletown Citizens Advisory Committee scheduled for December 15, 2021, has been canceled. This notice was issued by the Department of Planning, Conservation & Development.

Board of Education

The Middletown Public Schools Facilities Committee will discuss several ongoing school infrastructure projects. This includes updates on the Macdonough Feasibility Study and the Beman Middle School construction project. The committee will also review roofing projects and staffing vacancies within the Facilities Department.

• Status of the Beman Middle School Construction Project
• Update of Snow and Farm Hill Roofing Projects
• Discussion on 5-Year Plan for Capital Projects for 2021/2022
• Macdonough Feasibility Study update
• Facilities Department staffing vacancies

The Middletown Board of Education Facilities Committee met on December 15, 2021, and discussed a proposed land swap involving a 25.8-acre property near Kaplan Drive/Lawrence School, but took no formal action. Updates were provided on the Macdonough School feasibility plan, Beman Middle School construction, and roofing projects at Snow and Farm Hill Schools. The committee also reviewed the 5-year capital projects plan and noted staffing vacancies remain unchanged. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was informational.

• Approved minutes of November 17, 2021 meeting
• Discussed land swap proposal (no action taken)
• Noted Beman Middle School temporary certificate of occupancy for auditorium
• Scheduled Farm Hill roof project advertisement for December 17, 2021
• Held Snow School roof project pending air conditioning study
• Acknowledged Peter Staye's retirement and Kevin Dion's replacement

Downtown Business District

The Middletown Downtown Business District will hold its monthly meeting to receive updates from city and community partners. The agenda includes committee reports on advertising, promotion, and beautification, as well as a treasurer report.

• Updates from city and community partners
• Committee reports on advertising, promotion, and beautification
• Review of November 2021 meeting minutes
• Treasurer report

The Middletown Downtown Business District meeting on December 15, 2021, was primarily informational, with updates from city departments and community partners. No substantive decisions were made; the commission approved the November minutes and the treasurer's report, and adjourned.

• Approved November 2021 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved treasurer's report (all in favor)

Riverfront Boathouse Building Committee

The regular meeting of the Riverfront Boathouse Building Committee scheduled for Wednesday, December 15, 2021, has been cancelled. The agenda contains only this cancellation notice.

• Meeting cancellation

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission cancelled its regular meeting scheduled for December 15, 2021. The provided document contains only a cancellation notice.

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review department reports and approve minutes from the November 9, 2021, meeting. The agenda does not list specific new business or public hearing topics.

• Approval of November 9, 2021, minutes
• Director Report from Kevin Elak
• Division Report from Jennifer Sparks

Mattabassett District Board

The Finance Committee will review a revised draft audit for fiscal year 2021. The committee will also discuss a revised draft budget for fiscal year 2023 presented by the Executive Director.

• Review of revised Draft Audit FY2021
• Discussion of revised Draft Budget FY2023

The Finance Committee reviewed the draft FY2021 audit, correcting a $136 million figure to $138 million on page 7, and discussed the Clean Water Project refinancing with an estimated $856,000 savings. They also reviewed the draft FY2023 budget, noting an overall increase of about 5.6% (3.5% excluding capital and electricity), and planned to vote on it at the January meeting. No formal votes were taken on these items; the committee only adjourned unanimously.

• Corrected draft audit amount on page 7 from $136M to $138M
• Reviewed Clean Water refinancing analysis with $856,000 savings
• Discussed FY2023 draft budget with 5.6% overall increase
• Adjourned unanimously at 6:41 PM

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education will review several updates to district policies, including those regarding search and seizure, gender identity, and graduation requirements. The meeting also includes reports on school climate, safety, and district highlights. A proposed executive session will address personnel complaints and investigations.

• Updates to policies for search and seizure, gender identity, and graduation requirements
• Field trip approvals for MHS Dance Team and VEX Robotics
• Superintendent presentation on school climate and safety
• Proposed executive session regarding personnel complaints and investigations

Board of Education

The Board of Education will review several second readings for policy deletions, replacements, and revisions. The agenda also includes reports on district highlights and department updates.

• Second readings for policies on student driving, bus conduct, and search and seizure
• Updates to policies regarding gender identity, graduation requirements, and AED use
• Extended field trips for MHS Dance Team and VEX Robotics
• Financial and personnel reports from district departments

Area Transit District

The committee will review a CT DOT progress update report and discuss the implementation plan for the transit district expansion. The meeting also includes an Executive Director's report and discussions regarding next steps.

• CT DOT Progress Update Report
• Implementation Plan discussion
• Executive Director's Report

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Committee will discuss updates regarding a $55 million bond and the Riverfront Master Plan. The meeting also includes reviews of small business grants and a new lease at Keating.

• Update on $55 million bond
• Small business grant for Diamond Nails LLC
• New 1,200 sf lease at Keating for Edrive US
• Update on Arcade Development
• Update on Riverfront Master Plan

The Economic Development Committee unanimously approved moving a CDBG small business grant for Diamond Nails LLC and a lease for EDrive USA at Keating to the full Council. A motion to forward the LIG tax incentive contract to the Council failed for lack of a second. Updates were provided on the $55 million bond, Arcade development, and Riverfront Master Plan, but no votes were taken on those items.

• Approved moving Diamond Nails LLC CDBG grant to full Council (unanimous)
• Approved moving EDrive USA lease at Keating to full Council (unanimous)
• Motion to move LIG tax incentive contract to Council failed (no second)
• Approved minutes of November 9, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

Parking Advisory Committee

The scheduled meeting of the Parking Advisory Committee for December 14, 2021, has been cancelled.

Parking Advisory Committee

The Parking Advisory Committee will meet to approve minutes and address old business. The agenda includes a discussion regarding parking meter replacement. No new business is listed for this meeting.

• Parking meter replacement

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education Budget Committee will meet virtually to address line-item transfers and personnel updates. The committee also plans to schedule meetings for 2022 and discuss a constituent question regarding a land swap.

• Line-item transfers
• Personnel/staffing updates
• 2022 Budget Committee meeting scheduling
• Constituent question regarding land swap

Housing Authority

The December 13 meeting consists of routine procedural items and departmental reports. Topics include financial, legal, and personnel updates, along with maintenance and modernization reports.

• Approval of November 8, 2021 minutes
• Financial and Section 8 reports
• Maintenance and modernization updates

The Middletown Housing Authority held a regular meeting with no public comment. It unanimously approved the November minutes and bills as submitted. Staff reported on accounts receivable, legal collections, Section 8 units, maintenance work orders, and ongoing modernization projects. No substantive policy decisions were made; a vote on the Annual Plan and base-rent increase is scheduled for January.

• Approved minutes of November 8, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved bills as submitted (unanimous)

Anti-Racism Task Force

The Anti-Racism Task Force will meet to set its 2022 meeting calendar and discuss plans for a CRB recommendation. The group will also review the NCCJ report and work on a template for a two-year strategic plan.

• Setting the 2022 meeting calendar
• Discussing plans to submit CRB recommendation
• Reviewing NCCJ report assignments and themes
• Reviewing and approving a strategic plan template

The Anti-Racism Task Force approved its 2022 meeting calendar, scheduling meetings for the second Monday of each month unless holidays or unforeseen events require changes. The motion passed unanimously. The task force also discussed plans for a CRB recommendation, NCCJ report next steps, and a strategic two-year plan, but no formal decisions were made on these items.

• Approved 2022 meeting calendar (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 8, 2021 meeting (8 votes in favor; 2 abstentions)

Russell Library Board of Trustees

The committee will review the October 14, 2021, meeting minutes and discuss updates regarding grants and facilities/engineering assessments. Members will also address the FY23 budget and responsible investing.

• Approval of October 14, 2021, meeting minutes
• Grants update
• Facilities/Engineering Assessment Update
• FY23 Budget
• Responsible Investing

The Russell Library Finance Committee met via Zoom and approved the minutes from October 14, 2021. The committee reviewed a draft FY23 city budget showing under a 2% increase excluding salaries, discussed grant opportunities for a feasibility study, and tabled ESG investing to a later meeting. No formal votes were taken on substantive items.

• Approved minutes of October 14, 2021 Finance Committee meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion of ESG investing to a subsequent meeting
• Decided to keep meeting schedule for Jan 2022-Jan 2023: second Thursday at 4:00 p.m.

Arts Commission

The Public Art Sub-Committee will discuss new initiatives for a 50 year celebration and public art in public places. There were no reports provided for any old business items on the agenda.

• New initiatives for the 50 year celebration
• Public art in public places

The Public Art Sub-Committee met on December 9, 2021, and by unanimous consent tabled all old business items, including the bench restoration review and budget suggestions. The committee discussed new initiatives for public art, including window displays for the Commission on the Arts' 50-year celebration and potential art displays in public places during a walking tour of Main Street. No formal decisions were made; the committee will meet again to explore feasibility and develop recommendations.

• Tabled all old business items by unanimous consent
• Discussed new public art initiatives for 50-year celebration
• Examined Main Street locations for public art displays

Code Enforcement Committee

The Code Enforcement Committee approved the minutes from its November 24, 2021 meeting and received updates on various properties. No new decisions were made; most agenda items were informational, with several departments reporting no updates. The committee discussed ongoing enforcement actions, including blight orders and fire code violations, and scheduled 2022 meetings for the second and fourth Thursdays at 9:00 a.m.

• Approved November 24, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 meeting schedule (second and fourth Thursdays at 9:00 a.m.)

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education Curriculum Committee is holding a special meeting. The agenda contains only one substantive item regarding the Seal of Bi-Literacy.

• Seal of Bi-Literacy

Area Transit District

The board will review reports from the Administrator, Maintenance, Operations, Finance, and Expansion Transition Committee. New business includes discussing FY 2022 Town Dues and the meeting schedule. The agenda also includes a COVID-19 update.

• FY 2022 Town Dues
• Expansion Transition Committee Report
• COVID-19 Update
• Acceptance of November 18, 2021 meeting minutes

Commission on Conservation & Agriculture

The Agricultural Subcommittee is meeting to discuss the Agricultural Grant Program. The committee will address logistical, financial, and legal issues related to the program. They also plan to finalize application and review processes.

• Finalizing Agricultural Grant Program application and review process
• Developing selection process for the grant program
• Developing inspection and enforcement process for the grant program

Russell Library Board of Trustees

The Russell Library Board of Trustees Governance Committee is meeting to discuss governance items. The agenda includes a review of the Community Dialogue Framework and the Display/Public Posting Policy. Members will also address virtual meeting etiquette and the 2022 meeting schedule.

• Review of Community Dialogue Framework
• Display/Public Posting Policy review
• 2022 meeting schedule
• Virtual meeting etiquette

The Governance Committee of the Russell Library Board of Trustees approved new video meeting etiquette guidelines with a minor wording change, adopted a monthly meeting schedule for 2022-23, and approved prior meeting minutes. No public comment was received, and no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved video meeting etiquette guidelines with amended rule #1 (unanimous)
• Adopted monthly meeting schedule for Feb 2022-Jan 2023, first Wednesday at 5 pm (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Nov. 3, 2021 meeting (2-0-1, Bryan abstaining)

Public Works & Facilities Commission

The Commission will review progress on the Recreation Center, Veterans Pool, and Harbor Park Boardwalk. The agenda also includes correspondence regarding Walnut Grove Road and monthly reports from the Highway and Parks divisions.

• Walnut Grove Road one-way correspondence
• Recycling Commission EPR Packaging update
• Recreation Center, Veterans Pool, and Harbor Park Boardwalk updates
• December 2021 Public Works overtime report
• December 2021 Building Permits

The Public Works & Facilities Commission unanimously approved forwarding a resolution supporting extended producer responsibility (EPR) packaging legislation to the Common Council. The commission also approved the deputy tree warden's attendance at the Connecticut Tree Protective Association annual meeting. Project updates were provided for the Recreation Center, Veterans Pool and Splash Pad, Harbor Park Boardwalk, and other initiatives.

• Approved forwarding EPR packaging resolution to Common Council (unanimous)
• Approved Deputy Tree Warden attendance at CTPA annual meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from November 11, 2021 (unanimous)

Mary Shepherd Home Citizens' Advisory Committee

The committee will review updates regarding public transportation, occupancy, and tenant issues. The agenda also includes reports on the program, building issues, and Middlesex Health.

• Public transportation update
• Occupancy and tenant issues
• Program report
• Building issues
• Middlesex Health update

The committee approved the November minutes and confirmed that bus service to the main entrance has been restored. Occupancy is nearly full with one vacancy and a potential tenant identified. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on operational updates.

• Approved November 10 meeting minutes
• Confirmed restoration of bus service to main entrance
• Noted one vacancy with potential tenant in process

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Commission will hold public hearings on several special exceptions, including a new farm winery and a liquor retail store. They will also consider a subdivision to create 18 lots along Military Road. Additionally, the commission will review a request to release a $60,000 Public Works bond for Sunwood Development.

• Special exception for 8 elderly/disabled units at 1361 Randolph Road
• New liquor retail store at 613 Washington Street
• New farm winery at 519 Miner Street
• Subdivision of 18 lots, open space, and Military Road
• Release of $60,000 Public Works bond for Sunwood Development

The Commission approved a special exception for two residential buildings with 8 one-bedroom units for elderly/disabled residents at 1361 Randolph Road, conditioned on installing an electric vehicle charging station. It also approved a liquor store relocation to 613 Washington Street, conditioned on closing the existing store at 596 Washington Street. Two agenda items (farm winery and subdivision) were postponed by applicants. A public works bond for Sunwood Development was released.

• Approved special exception for Marino Manor 8-unit elderly housing with EV charging station condition (7-0)
• Approved special exception for liquor store relocation to 613 Washington Street, conditioned on closing 596 Washington Street (7-0)
• Postponed farm winery special exception at 519 Miner Street (no vote)
• Postponed subdivision for 18 lots on Military Road (no vote)
• Approved release of $60,000 Public Works bond for Sunwood Development (7-0)
• Approved minutes of November 10 and November 23 meetings (7-0)

American Rescue Plan Task Force

The American Rescue Plan Act Task Force will review minutes from the November 10, 2021, meeting. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding the 2022 meeting schedule and the ARPA Survey.

• Approval of November 10, 2021, meeting minutes
• Discussion of 2022 meeting schedule
• ARPA Survey

The Task Force approved the 2022 meeting schedule and discussed survey results on spending priorities. It authorized a press release to announce the upcoming ARPA funding application process, with a final application vote planned for January. The next meeting will include reports on expenditures, premium pay, and infrastructure needs.

• Approved November 10, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Authorized Chair and Vice Chair to submit press release on ARPA application process (unanimous)
• Directed next meeting to include reports on expenditures, premium pay, and Water and Sewer infrastructure (unanimous)

Lower Connecticut River Valley

The LCRVCOG and LCRVMPO will review the FY21 audit and discuss the regional legislative agenda. The meeting includes presentations on HAZUS data and UR Community Cares, alongside updates on regional housing and economic development plans.

• Bridge replacement on Route 149 in East Haddam ($2,500,000 construction cost)
• Endorsement of the Regional Transportation Safety Plan
• Presentation on the FY21 RiverCOG Audit
• Election of LCRVCOG officers
• Updates on ARPA regional projects and the Regional Housing Plan

Design Review & Preservation Board, Middletown

The Design Review & Preservation Board meeting scheduled for December 8, 2021, has been canceled. The cancellation is due to a lack of business.

80 Harbor Drive Renovation Building Committee

The committee will discuss an emergency roof purchase and receive updates on building demolition and Tighe and Bond Engineering. The meeting also includes a budget update.

• Emergency purchase of a roof
• Update on building demolition
• Update on Tighe and Bond Engineering
• Budget update

Russell Library Board of Trustees

The committee will review the October 5, 2021, meeting minutes and discuss COVID-19 response and facilities assessment. Members will also address board term impacts from charter revisions and consider new company member nominations.

• Approval of October 5, 2021, meeting minutes
• Discussion on COVID-19 response and facilities planning
• Review of board terms and mayoral appointments
• Update on LION-LCI migration status
• Motion for executive session regarding legal and personnel matters

The Russell Library Board of Trustees held a routine executive committee meeting, approving the October minutes and discussing operational updates. No major policy decisions were made; the board agreed to continue its meeting schedule and address trustee term expirations and recruitment.

• Approved October 5, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to continue first Tuesday monthly Zoom meetings
• Entered and exited executive session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:17 p.m. (unanimous)

Resource Recycling Advisory Council

The Middletown Resource Recycling Advisory Commission is holding a special meeting. The agenda includes a discussion regarding an EPR for Packaging Resolution and a period for public comment.

• EPR for Packaging Resolution

The Resource Recycling Advisory Commission unanimously approved a resolution supporting Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging, which will be sent to the Common Council for approval. The resolution is also on the agenda for the Public Works and Facilities Commission to consider the next day. The action was taken to address the pending closure of the Hartford trash facility and reduce waste costs.

• Approved resolution supporting EPR for packaging (unanimous)
• Sent resolution to Common Council for approval
• Placed resolution on Public Works and Facilities Commission agenda

Insurance & Claims

The committee will review a report on insurance claims closed within the General Counsel’s authority and CIRMA. The meeting also includes discussion of recent claim recoveries and the 2022 meeting schedule.

• Automobile liability claim for $13,554 at Saw Mill
• Equipment damage claim for $943.1 at 370 Hunting Hill Avenue
• Windshield glass claim for $313.3 at 245 DeKoven Drive
• Discussion of recent claim recoveries
• Discussion of the 2022 meeting schedule

Area Transit District

The Special Estuary Transit District Expansion Transition Committee will review a CT DOT progress update report. The meeting also includes discussions regarding an implementation plan and future meeting schedules.

• CT DOT Progress Update Report
• Implementation Plan discussion
• Board Meeting Schedule discussion
• ETC Meeting Schedule discussion

Common Council

This special meeting is a workshop for the Common Council to ask questions to department directors. The agenda contains only procedural steps for opening and closing the question period.

• Questions to directors workshop

Common Council

The Council will review Board of Education grant reports and updates on the Arrigoni Bridge Project. Decisions include a land swap with D&V Development, arts grants, and small business funding.

• Land swap of 4.8 acres for 25.6 acres with D&V Development of Middletown LLC
• $26,050 in Arts & Culture Office grants to various organizations
• $15,000 in CARES Act CDBG funding for three local small businesses
• $6,000 appropriation to upgrade an Administrative Secretary position
• Appointment of Kelly Sweeney to the Planning & Zoning Commission

The Common Council approved a resolution urging state legislators to implement the Transportation Climate Initiative (TCI) in Connecticut, despite opposition from some members. The vote was 6-4 with one abstention. The Council also approved several other items, including a $6,000 appropriation for a position upgrade, a $26,050 arts grant allocation, and a land swap that was tabled pending action by the Board of Education.

• Approved Resolution 153-21 urging state legislators to pass legislation implementing the Transportation Climate Initiative (TCI) by a vote of 6-4 with 1 abstention.
• Approved a $6,000 appropriation to upgrade a vacant Administrative Secretary II position to Administrative Secretary III in Technology Services.
• Approved Resolution 151-21 allocating $26,050 in Art Support Services Grant funds to seven local arts organizations and individuals.
• Approved Resolution 152-21 appointing Kelly Sweeney as an alternate member of the Planning & Zoning Commission.
• Approved Resolution 154-21, modifying the CARES Act Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) allocation plan.
• Approved Resolution 155-21, allocating $5,000 each in CARES Act CDBG funding to three local small businesses.
• Tabled Resolution 156-21, a proposed land swap with D&V Development, pending action by the Board of Education.
• Approved the appointment of Robyn Anderson to fill a vacancy on a city board.

Technology Advisory Committee

The Technology Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, December 2, 2021, has been cancelled. The agenda contains no other items.

• Cancellation of the December 2, 2021, committee meeting

Technology Advisory Committee

The Technology Advisory Committee will review a request for an appropriation to reclassify the Administrative Secretary position. The meeting also includes the Director's Report and discussion regarding the 2022 meeting schedule.

• Request for appropriation to reclassify Administrative Secretary position
• Review of 2022 meeting schedule

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings regarding variance requests for properties on Wall Street and West Street. The board will also consider adopting the 2022 regular meeting schedule.

• Variance request for a handicap ramp and walkway at 13 Wall Street
• Variance request for a shed near the property line at 181 West Street
• Adoption of the 2022 Regular Meeting Schedule
• Approval of October 7, 2021, meeting minutes

The Middletown Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance for a handicap ramp and walkway at 13 Wall Street, and denied a variance for a shed at 181 West Street. The board also approved the minutes of the October 7, 2021 meeting and adopted the 2022 regular meeting schedule.

• Approved the minutes of the October 7, 2021 regular meeting (5-0).
• Adopted the 2022 Regular Meeting Schedule (5-0).
• Closed the public hearing for the 13 Wall Street variance request (5-0).
• Approved a variance to permit a handicap ramp and walkway within required front and side yards at 13 Wall Street (5-0).
• Closed the public hearing for the 181 West Street variance request (4-0).
• Denied a variance to permit a shed within 5 ft of the side property line at 181 West Street (1-3).
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:04 pm (5-0).

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education Curriculum Committee meeting scheduled for December 2, 2021, is canceled. This notice was issued by the Office of the Superintendent.

• Cancellation of the December 2, 2021, Curriculum Committee meeting

Water Pollution Control Authority

The regular meeting of the Water Pollution Control Authority scheduled for December 2, 2021, has been canceled.

Russell Library Board of Trustees

The Russell Library Board of Trustees Governance Committee Meeting scheduled for December 1, 2021, has been cancelled. The meeting has been rescheduled for December 8, 2021.

• Rescheduling of the Governance Committee Meeting to December 8, 2021

Clean Energy Taskforce

The Clean Energy Taskforce will discuss revisions to the 2022 Energy Plan, including budget and funding frameworks. The meeting also includes updates on municipal electric vehicle readiness and building committee projects.

• Municipal EV Readiness Program and City vehicle fleet conversion update
• Building committee updates for Macdonough, Boathouse, Canoe Club, School Roofs, Vets Park, and Middletown Recreation Center
• 2022 Energy Plan revisions regarding budget and funding framework
• BlocPower decarbonization discussion
• Charter revision results regarding term limits

Arts Commission

The Grants Review Committee will discuss updates to the MCA Grant Policy, including guidelines and timelines. The committee will also consider recommendations for the Municipal Grant Award Ordinance.

• Review of MCA Grant Guidelines and grantee completion timelines
• Review of the grant panel process
• Recommendations for the Municipal Grant Award Ordinance

The Grants Review Committee discussed updates to grant guidelines, including a possible penalty for late reports and a $8k minimum for GOS awards, but made no final decisions. A suggestion to review grant reports alongside applications was tabled for the next meeting. Proposed amendments to the municipal grant award ordinance were reviewed and will be presented to the full commission.

• Approved minutes of January 19, 2021 meeting
• Approved the meeting agenda
• Discussed grant guideline updates, including penalty for late reports and $8k GOS award minimum, with no final action
• Tabled discussion of reviewing grant reports simultaneously with applications
• Reviewed proposed draft amendment to Ordinance 44-11 for presentation to full commission

Finance & Government Operations Commission

The commission will discuss a proposed 2022 meeting schedule and an IT appropriation for a position upgrade. The agenda includes resolutions regarding a land swap with D & V Development of Middletown LLC and CDBG-CV Grant amendments. Financial reports, including tax and expenditure summaries, are also scheduled for review.

• $6,000 IT appropriation to upgrade an Administrative Secretary II position to III
• Land swap of 4.8 acres of City land for 25.6 acres from D & V Development of Middletown LLC
• CDBG-CV Grant allocation plan amendment
• Review of Tax Collector and Monthly Expenditure Summary reports

The Finance & Government Operations Commission unanimously approved the October 27, 2021 minutes and the proposed 2022 meeting schedule, which will remain virtual until further notice. It approved a $6,000 appropriation to upgrade a vacant Administrative Secretary II position to Administrative Secretary III. The commission also approved three resolutions: authorizing the Mayor to swap a 4.8-acre City-owned parcel for a 25.6-acre piece of land from D&V Development of Middletown LLC, submitting a CDBG-CV Grant allocation plan amendment, and executing contractual paperwork for those grants. No public comments were made.

• Approved October 27, 2021 minutes unanimously
• Approved 2022 meeting schedule; meetings virtual until further notice
• Approved $6,000 appropriation to upgrade vacant Administrative Secretary II to III
• Approved resolution authorizing Mayor to sign documents for 4.8-acre land swap with D&V Development
• Approved resolution authorizing Mayor to submit CDBG-CV Grant allocation plan amendment
• Approved resolution authorizing Mayor to execute contractual paperwork for grant allocation

Inland / Wetlands & Water Courses Agency

The Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency will discuss the construction of a road and five single-family homes on Nathan Hale Road. The agency will also consider a general permit application from the Public Works Department for routine maintenance near wetlands. No public hearings are scheduled for this meeting.

• Construction of a road and five single-family homes on lots 12-0106, 12-0110, 12-0193, 12-0194, and 12-0195 Nathan Hale Road
• General permit application for routine maintenance in and adjacent to inland wetlands by the Public Works Department

The Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency approved permit 2021-07 for construction of a city street, utilities, five single-family homes, and a mitigation channel on Nathan Hale Road, with conditions including an erosion bond and a five-year completion deadline. The agency also extended the Public Works Department's general permit for routine wetland maintenance for five years, adding language allowing emergency repairs for immediate public health and safety threats. Both votes were unanimous.

• Approved permit 2021-07 for Nathan Hale Road subdivision with conditions, unanimously
• Extended Public Works general permit W2021-17 for 5 years, with emergency repair language added, unanimously
• Approved minutes of November 3, 2021 meeting, unanimously
• Adjourned meeting at 8:01pm, unanimously

Area Transit District

The Special Estuary Transit District Expansion Transition Committee meeting scheduled for November 30, 2021, was cancelled. The agenda included a CT DOT progress update report and discussions on implementation plans.

• CT DOT progress update report
• Implementation Plan discussion
• Board Meeting Schedule discussion

Lower Connecticut River Valley

The RiverCOG Executive Committee will review meeting minutes from October 2021 and approve the 2022 meeting schedule. The agenda also includes discussions regarding new committee members and scheduling a special legislative meeting for January 2022.

• Approval of October 19, 2021, meeting minutes
• Approval of 2022 meeting dates
• Discussion of Nominating Committee and new Executive Committee members
• Setting a date for the January 2022 Special Legislative Meeting

Code Enforcement Committee

The Code Enforcement Committee will receive updates from various municipal departments, including Public Works, Health, and Police. The meeting also includes discussions regarding several properties in Middletown.

• Approval of November 10, 2021 minutes
• Updates from Mayor's Office, Public Works, and Health Department
• Review of Wharfside Commons
• Discussion of 159 Boston Road and 520 East Main Street
• Review of 399 DeKoven Drive and 52 North Main Street

80 Harbor Drive Renovation Building Committee

The regular scheduled meeting of the 80 Harbor Drive Renovation Building Committee for November 24, 2021, has been cancelled.

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission is meeting to approve an executive session. This session is for discussing attorney-client communications related to the lawsuit The Hartford Dispensary d/b/a Root Center for Advanced Recovery v. City of Middletown Planning and Zoning Commission.

• Approval of executive session regarding pending litigation (Docket No.: MMX-CV20-6029705-S)

The Planning and Zoning Commission held a special meeting and voted 6-0 to enter executive session to discuss attorney-client strategy regarding pending litigation, The Hartford Dispensary d/b/a Root Center for Advanced Recovery v. City of Middletown Planning and Zoning Commission. The session lasted from 7:07 PM to 7:57 PM. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned immediately after.

• Approved 6-0 entering executive session to discuss litigation strategy with counsel
• Adjourned the meeting after the executive session

Area Transit District

The committee will review a progress update from the CT DOT and a revised implementation plan. Discussion topics include member dues structure and the board meeting schedule.

• CT DOT Progress Update Report
• Revised Implementation Plan
• Discussion of Member Dues Structure
• Review of Bylaws and Board Policies

Sanitary Disposal District Commission

The regular Sanitation Commission meeting scheduled for Tuesday, November 23, 2021, has been cancelled. The agenda contains only this cancellation notice.

Resource Recycling Advisory Council

The Middletown Resource Recycling Advisory Commission will discuss a draft resolution for EPR and the use of gas-powered leaf blowers. The meeting also includes updates on the Swap Shack and a restaurant food waste video.

• Draft Resolution for EPR
• Gas powered leaf blowers discussion
• Swap Shack update
• Restaurant Food Waste Video update

The Middletown Resource Recycling Advisory Commission advanced to the next phase of a DEEP Sustainable Materials Management grant, though funding is not guaranteed. The commission could not vote on a resolution supporting Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging due to lack of a quorum, so it scheduled a special meeting. It also canceled its December regular meeting and discussed several recycling and waste-reduction projects.

• Advanced to next phase of DEEP Sustainable Materials Management grant (no vote recorded)
• Tabled Extended Producer Responsibility resolution due to lack of quorum
• Scheduled special meeting to discuss EPR resolution
• Canceled December regular meeting
• Accepted Oct. 22, 2021 meeting minutes as presented
• Adjourned at 7:45 pm

Lower Connecticut River Valley

The Lower Connecticut River Valley Council of Governments will consider authorizations for Department of Agriculture and EDA COVID-19 recovery grants. The meeting also includes a request for designation as a Regional Economic Development District. Additionally, the council will elect an Interim Treasurer.

• Dept. of Agriculture Grant agreement
• Request for Regional Economic Development District designation
• EDA grant for COVID-19 recovery projects
• Election of Interim Treasurer

Lower Connecticut River Valley

The Lower Connecticut River Valley Council of Governments is meeting to discuss several grant authorizations. The council will consider entering into agreements for a Department of Agriculture grant and an EDA grant for COVID-19 recovery projects. Additionally, the body will review a request for designation as a Regional Economic Development District.

• Dept. of Agriculture Grant agreement
• Request for Regional Economic Development District designation
• EDA grant for COVID-19 recovery projects
• Legislative Agenda Update

Lower Connecticut River Valley

The Lower Connecticut River Valley Regional Planning Committee will meet via Zoom on November 22, 2021. The agenda includes updates regarding the Regional Plan of Conservation & Development, the Regional Housing Plan, and the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy.

• Regional Plan of Conservation & Development updates
• Regional Housing Plan updates
• Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy updates
• Approval of 2022 meeting dates

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education is holding a board retreat to discuss roles, responsibilities, and the District Strategic Operation Plan. The session also includes discussions regarding the Personnel Ad Hoc Committee and school board goal development.

• School Board Orientation/Roles and Responsibilities
• Overview of the District Strategic Operation Plan
• Discussion of Personnel Ad Hoc Committee
• Development of School Board Goals
• BOE input on MPS Website

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education has canceled its meeting scheduled for Saturday, November 20, 2021. No other agenda items were provided in the notice.

• Cancellation of the November 20, 2021, Board of Education meeting

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education is holding a board retreat to review roles and responsibilities. The agenda includes an overview of the District Strategic Operation Plan and the development of school board goals.

• School Board Orientation/Roles and Responsibilities
• Overview of the District Strategic Operation Plan
• Discussion of Personnel Ad Hoc Committee
• Development of School Board Goals
• Board input on MPS Website

Walter C. Jones Fund

This memorandum provides notice of a regularly scheduled meeting for the Walter C. Jones Fund Committee. The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and does not list specific business items for discussion or decision.

• No substantive business items or decisions are listed on this agenda.

The committee approved the November agenda and the minutes from October 27, 2021. They approved the 2022 meeting schedule. They discussed closed applications from October, reviewed November applications, and discussed activity and inquiries for November. No other business was conducted.

• Approved the November meeting agenda.
• Approved the meeting minutes from October 27, 2021.
• Approved the 2022 meeting schedule.

Urban Forestry Commission

The Urban Forestry Commission will review reports from the Tree Warden and Public Works. The agenda includes updates on stump grinding, Veteran’s Park planting, and the Arboretum Map. The commission will also discuss the 2022 meeting schedule.

• Tree Warden Report
• Public Works Report
• Stump Grinding Update
• Veteran’s Park Planting
• 2022 Meeting Schedule

Insurance & Claims

The Insurance & Claims Committee will hold a special meeting to discuss strategy and negotiations for the pending Jeffrey Harvey vs. City of Middletown claim. The committee will also approve minutes from the October 2021 meeting. No closed claims were reported for this period.

• Discussion regarding strategy and negotiations for the Jeffrey Harvey vs. City of Middletown claim
• Approval of October 2021 meeting minutes

The Insurance and Claims Committee met virtually and approved the minutes from October 2021. After a closed executive session to discuss strategy and negotiations, the committee unanimously approved a settlement for the pending claim Jeffrey Harvey vs. City of Middletown. No other business was discussed, and the meeting adjourned at 7:25 p.m.

• Approved the minutes of the October 2021 meeting (unanimous).
• Held an executive session to discuss strategy and negotiations for the Jeffrey Harvey claim (unanimous).
• Approved a settlement for Jeffrey Harvey vs. City of Middletown (unanimous).

Area Transit District

The Middletown Area Transit Board will review reports on operations, finance, and expansion. The agenda includes discussions regarding a radio authorizing resolution and a Memorandum of Understanding with New Haven.

• Radio Authorizing Resolution
• New Haven MOU
• WESPASS
• Salary Increases
• Contract negotiation with CTDOT

Recreation & Community Services Commission

The Commission will review department reports regarding senior and recreation services. The agenda includes updates on the Recreation Center Building Committee, Veteran’s Pool, and Riverfront. Members will also discuss holiday programming and the Community Needs Assessment Project.

• Recreation Center Building Committee Update
• Veteran’s Pool Update
• Riverfront Update
• Community Needs Assessment Project Update
• Approval of October Meeting Minutes

The Recreation & Community Services Commission met and approved the November meeting minutes. They heard public comment from Karl Fletcher about improving communication of youth programs, and discussed the Veterans Pool closure for summer 2022. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy items; the meeting was largely informational and procedural.

• Approved agenda amendment to allow late-arriving speaker (unanimous)
• Approved November meeting minutes (unanimous)

School Readiness Council

This meeting consists of procedural items including introductions and the acceptance of minutes. The agenda also includes a financial and coordinator's report and legislative updates.

• Financial & Coordinator’s Report
• Legislative Updates

The Middletown School Readiness Council met remotely on November 17, 2021. Members discussed the School Readiness fee policy regarding families with outstanding balances, but no motion was made; instead, suggestions were documented for future discussion and a subcommittee may be formed. The Council also heard updates on enrollment, quality enhancement, and legislative efforts, and adjourned at 1:00 P.M.

• Discussed SR fee policy on outstanding balances; no motion made, suggestions documented for future discussion.
• Noted minutes from June will be shared for acceptance at the next meeting.
• Heard updates on preschool enrollment, including 15 families on BOE part-day waitlist and 1 Head Start opening at Snow School.
• Announced Karyn Hurlbert as new Y director, replacing Amber.
• Reported 15 people trained in CHILD tool; BCBA presentation scheduled for preschool teachers.
• Discussed legislative updates, including Childcare for CT Campaign and potential hybrid meeting equipment.
• Adjourned at 1:00 P.M.; next meeting scheduled for December 15, 2021.

Arts Commission

The Middletown Arts Commission will review updates on grant award recommendations and discuss the 2022 50th Anniversary. The agenda also includes recommendations for Municipal Grant Award Ordinance and a proposal for a City of Middletown Collaborative Arts Initiative.

• Grant award recommendations update
• Discussion of 2022 50th Anniversary
• Municipal Grant Award Ordinance recommendations
• City of Middletown Collaborative Arts Initiative proposal

The Middletown Commission on the Arts approved a resolution to rescind a grant for Tre Davis due to non-compliance with grant requirements, including selling tickets instead of a free event and changing the date without approval. The commission also approved the 2022 meeting schedule, a $325 bench restoration estimate (up to $900), and Mike Arafeh as Music Ambassador. A motion to amend the municipal grant ordinance to waive matching funds for individual artists up to $3,000 was made but no vote is recorded.

• Approved rescinding Tre Davis grant application due to non-compliance (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Approved $325 bench restoration estimate, up to $900 (unanimous)
• Approved Mike Arafeh as Music Ambassador (unanimous)
• Motion to amend grant ordinance for artists up to $3,000 (no vote recorded)

Citizens Advisory Committee

The Citizens Advisory Committee will hold a public hearing to solicit comments on the 2020-2021 Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER). This report details how Community Development Block Grant funding was used during the program year.

• Public hearing for the 2020-2021 CAPER on November 17, 2021
• Review of CDBG funding usage to address community needs and priorities

Citizens Advisory Committee

The Citizens Advisory Committee is meeting to approve the 2020-2021 CAPER. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding a Buttonwood Tree Request.

• Approval of 2020-2021 CAPER
• Buttonwood Tree Request

The Citizens' Advisory Committee unanimously approved the 2020-2021 CAPER for submission to HUD. A request to move a $24,000 grant from The Buttonwood Tree to NEAT was discussed but not decided; the committee will seek HUD's opinion on whether the fund use is allowed. The meeting adjourned at 6:35 p.m.

• Approved the 2020-2021 CAPER unanimously for submission to HUD
• Deferred decision on moving Buttonwood Tree grant to NEAT pending HUD opinion
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:35 p.m.

Board of Education

The Facilities Committee will review several ongoing school construction and maintenance projects. This includes updates on the Macdonough Feasibility Study, Beman Middle School, and roofing at Snow and Farm Hill. The committee will also discuss the 2021/2022 5-Year Plan for Capital Projects and staffing vacancies in the Facilities Department.

• Status of Beman Middle School Construction Project
• Update of Snow and Farm Hill Roofing Projects
• Update of Macdonough Feasibility Study
• Discussion on 5-Year Plan for Capital Projects for 2021/2022
• Facilities Department staffing vacancies

The committee reviewed the Macdonough feasibility study, noting state support for a 'new construction' project and planning an architect's presentation to the Mayor. It received updates on the Beman Middle School construction, including a goal for an auditorium certificate of occupancy on November 19, and discussed a shortage of about 100 lockers due to increased enrollment. The Farm Hill School roof project was approved by the state, with a bid expected in January 2022, pending city funding for a solar system. The committee also discussed staffing vacancies and the 5-year capital plan.

• Approved the October 20, 2020 meeting minutes.
• Discussed the Macdonough feasibility study, with the state supporting a 'new construction' project.
• Reviewed the Beman Middle School construction status, including auditorium and site work.
• Noted the Farm Hill School roof project was approved by the state, with a bid expected in January 2022.
• Discussed the 5-year capital plan and staffing vacancies.
• Congratulated Mr. Staye on his upcoming retirement.

Downtown Business District

This meeting consists of routine updates and reports from city and community partners. The agenda also includes committee reports on advertising, promotion, and beautification.

• Updates from City Partners including Police and Public Works
• Updates from Community Partners including Wesleyan University
• Committee updates regarding beautification and maintenance
• Treasurer report

The Downtown Business District commission approved the October 2021 meeting minutes and the treasurer's report. Police Chief Erik Costa introduced himself, discussed a downtown walk, and outlined plans for a partnership and a youth PAL program. The commission discussed ARPA funding requests for a streetscape plan and a facade grant program, with follow-up scheduled. The meeting adjourned at 9:15 a.m.

• Approved October 2021 meeting minutes
• Approved treasurer's report
• Adjourned meeting at 9:15 a.m.

Riverfront Boathouse Building Committee

The regular meeting of the Riverfront Boathouse Building Committee scheduled for November 17, 2021, was cancelled.

Middletown Recreation Center Building Committee

The Middletown Recreation Center Building Committee will review project updates and consider approving various contracts. The meeting also includes an update on Beman School Committee contracts regarding security, IT, and fire alarm systems.

• Approval of contracts for A.Secondino & Sons, Environmental Systems Corporation, Symbiont Energy ESA, and Landmark Architects
• Update on Beman School Committee contracts for North Wall/Corridor and Roof
• Update on Beman School security cameras, IT services, and fire alarm systems

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission will hold a regular meeting on November 17, 2021. The agenda consists of procedural items including the approval of previous minutes and the 2022 meeting schedule. Members will also discuss next steps for the commission and review 2021 attendance.

• Approval of September 15, 2021, meeting minutes
• Review of October 20, 2021, informal meeting minutes
• Discussion regarding next steps for the commission
• Approval of the 2022 meeting schedule
• Review of 2021 attendance

The commission approved a motion to send a letter, drafted by Vice Chairperson Doyle, along with the September 2021 minutes, to participants of the NCCJ community conversations and focus groups, inviting them to attend the January 19 and February 16, 2022 meetings. The commission also approved the 2022 meeting schedule and voted to cancel its December 2021 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; the rest of the meeting was discussion.

• Approved the November 17, 2021 meeting agenda.
• Approved the September 15, 2021 meeting minutes.
• Approved mailing a letter and September minutes to NCCJ participants, inviting them to January and February 2022 meetings.
• Approved the 2022 meeting schedule.
• Voted to cancel the December 2021 commission meeting.

LGBTQIA+ Commission

The LGBTQIA+ Commission will review minutes from the October 19 meeting and report on the October 24 Q+ Event. Members will also discuss updates on various initiatives, including a December food drive and Transgender Visibility Week. Additionally, the commission will begin planning for Middletown Pride 2022.

• Report on October 24 Q+ Event
• LGBTQIA Food Drive in December
• Planning for Middletown Pride 2022
• Transgender Visibility Week updates
• LGBTQIA+ Artist Takeover of City Hall

The LGBTQIA+ Commission approved adding Pride 2022 event planning to future agendas and recommended Commissioner Pessina present an ice skating night idea to the Recreation Commission. They also discussed updates on Q+ partnership, Transgender Visibility Week, and a spring event, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved adding Pride 2022 event planning to future agendas (unanimous)
• Approved recommending Commissioner Pessina present ice skating night to Recreation Commission (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 19, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

Russell Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will review committee reports and an administration report regarding new library staff. The meeting also includes discussions on trustee EDI training and a climate survey.

• Approval of October 19, 2021, minutes
• Introduction of new library staff
• Updates on trustee EDI training and climate survey
• Executive session regarding strategy, personnel, contracts, and property

The Russell Library Board of Trustees approved the October 19, 2021 meeting minutes with a correction to reflect that September minutes were approved, with two trustees abstaining. The board also unanimously voted to enter and exit executive session to discuss strategy, personnel, contracts, and property. No other substantive decisions were made; reports were given on new hires, the facilities assessment, and committee updates.

• Approved October 19, 2021 minutes with correction (Trustees Becker and Williams abstained)
• Entered executive session at 7:19 p.m. to discuss strategy, personnel, contracts, and property (unanimous)
• Exited executive session at 8:10 p.m. (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:10 p.m. (unanimous)

Mattabassett District Board

The Finance Committee approved a banking resolution covering CDs, checks, and wire payments, referring it to the Board of Directors. Members reviewed the draft FY2021 audit and discussed refinancing the Clean Water Fund loan, with a cash flow analysis to be provided. The FY2023 draft budget will be revised with added columns and a 3-year expense analysis for the next meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved banking resolution as presented (unanimous)
• Referred banking resolution to Board of Directors
• Reviewed draft FY2021 audit; revisions to be presented in December
• Discussed Clean Water Fund loan refinancing; cash flow analysis to be provided
• Reviewed draft FY2023 budget; revisions to be sent before December meeting

Mattabassett District Board

The Finance Committee will review a presentation on the FY2021 Draft Audit Review. The committee will also discuss the process and schedule for the FY2022 Draft Budget Review.

• FY2021 Draft Audit Review presentation and discussion
• FY2022 Draft Budget Review process and schedule discussion

Firing Range Building Committee

The regular meeting of the Firing Range Building Committee has been cancelled. The committee is currently addressing design concerns regarding lead safety with the FBI and working with the City Health Department regarding OSHA compliance.

• Cancellation of the November 16, 2021, regular meeting
• Ongoing work with the FBI regarding lead safety design concerns
• Coordination with the City Health Department regarding OSHA compliance for potential lead exposure

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education has cancelled the Policy Committee Meeting scheduled for November 16, 2021. The provided text contains only this cancellation notice.

• Cancellation of the Policy Committee Meeting

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education is meeting to discuss district highlights and department reports. The agenda includes the approval of an African American Latino Course and several updates to student-related policies. An executive session is also scheduled to discuss a personnel complaint.

• Approval of African American Latino Course
• Revisions to graduation requirements and search and seizure policies
• Updates to student driving, parking, and bus conduct policies
• Review of the district financial report and grants status
• Proposed executive session regarding a personnel complaint

Area Transit District

The Special Estuary Transit District Expansion Transition Committee is meeting to discuss member dues structures and joint board membership. The agenda also includes a CT DOT progress update and a review of COVID funds.

• CT DOT progress update report
• Discussion on member dues structure
• Review of joint board committee structure and membership
• Update on implementation and communication plans
• Review of grant resolution

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Committee is discussing updates regarding the $55 million bond, Arcade Development, and the Riverfront Master Plan. The meeting also includes reviews of small business grants and a proposed land swap.

• Update on $55 million bond
• Small business grants for Relish 670 LLC, Yu’s LLC dba Juicy Cajun Seafood, and Cantina Café Ristorante LLC
• Tax stabilization agreement for Newfield Street of Middletown LLC
• Historic structure rehabilitation tax abatement for 73 Main Street
• Land swap and conservation easement for Newfield Street and Mile Lane lots

The Economic Development Committee approved three small business grants, moved a historic structure tax abatement for 73 Main Street and a land swap with Dominick DeMartino to the Common Council, and approved the 2022 meeting schedule. A motion to move Landmark Investment Group's tax abatement proposal failed for lack of a second. The committee also received updates on the $55 million bond and riverfront master plan.

• Approved small business grants for Relish 670 LLC, Yu's LLC dba Juicy Cajun Seafood, and Cantina Café Ristorante (unanimous)
• Moved grants to Common Council once fully qualified (unanimous)
• Moved historic structure tax abatement for 73 Main Street to Common Council (unanimous)
• Moved land swap and conservation easement for Map Lots 09-0017 and 10-0147 to Common Council (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 EDC meeting schedule via WebEx (unanimous)
• Motion to move LIG tax abatement proposal to Common Council failed (no second)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Committee is meeting to discuss updates regarding a $55 million bond, the Arcade Development, and the Riverfront Master Plan. The committee will also review small business grants for three local businesses and a tax abatement for 73 Main Street.

• Update on $55 Million Bond
• Small Business Grants for Relish 670 LLC, Yu’s LLC dba Juicy Cajun Seafood, and Cantina Café Ristorante LLC
• Tax Stabilization Agreement for Newfield Street of Middletown LLC
• Historic Structure Rehabilitation Tax Abatement for 73 Main Street

Youth Service Bureau Advisory Board

The Youth Services Bureau Advisory Board will hold a continued conversation regarding its role in promoting value for Middletown Youth Services Bureau. The agenda also includes a police and youth report and the approval of meeting notes.

• Discussion on YSBAB's role in promoting value for MYSB
• Police and Youth Report
• Approval of all meeting notes

Commission on Conservation & Agriculture

The Commission on Conservation & Agriculture will review committee reports regarding trails, agriculture, and open space management. The agenda includes discussions on property updates for Westlake Drive and Atkins Street and the Red Maple Swamp assessment. Members will also consider adopting the 2022 meeting schedule.

• Property updates for Sunshine Realty, Westlake Drive, and Atkins Street
• Tri-town and Land Trust ATV issue proposal
• Red Maple Swamp Environmental Review Team Assessment
• Bridges at Guida report from the Trails Committee
• Adoption of the 2022 meeting schedule

The Commission on Conservation & Agriculture approved its 2022 meeting schedule and the minutes from September and October meetings. The Westlake Drive property closed and is now owned by the city, while an appraisal is underway for the Atkins Street parcel. No public comment was received, and no substantive policy decisions were made beyond routine approvals.

• Approved 2022 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Approved September 21, 2021 minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Approved October 19, 2021 minutes as received (with two abstentions)
• Accepted agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 8:48 pm (unanimous)

Commission on Conservation & Agriculture

The Commission will review reports from the Trails, Agriculture, and Open Space committees. Discussion includes property updates for Westlake Drive and Atkins Street, as well as an ATV issue proposal. Members will also consider options for conducting meetings in the upcoming year.

• Property updates for Sunshine Realty, Westlake Drive, and Atkins Street
• Tri-town and Land Trust ATV issue proposal
• Red Maple Swamp Environmental Review Team Assessment
• Reports on bridges at Guida and Wilcox & Guida Management Plans

Commission on Conservation & Agriculture

The Commission will review committee reports regarding trails, agriculture, and open space management. The agenda includes discussions on property updates for Sunshine Realty, Westlake Drive, and Atkins Street. Members will also address a proposal regarding a Tri-town and Land Trust ATV issue.

• Property updates for Sunshine Realty, Westlake Drive, and Atkins Street
• Trails Committee report on bridges at Guida
• Agriculture Committee report on Ag Program/Grant
• Tri-town and Land Trust ATV issue proposal
• Red Maple Swamp Environmental Review Team Assessment

Complete Streets & Bikeway Committee

The committee will discuss updates regarding the ALT-FCT Connector Study and bike education programs at MPS. Members will also review ongoing projects including a micro-transit bike share program RFP and discussions with the Middletown Police Department regarding traffic safety enforcement.

• ALT-FCT Connector Study Update
• Bike education program status at MPS
• Micro-Transit bike share program RFP
• Traffic safety enforcement discussions with Middletown Police Department
• Bike path grants

Mattabassett District Board

The Mattabassett District Board will review financial statements, including the treasurer's report and budget statement. The agenda also includes discussions regarding the Primary Tank Tunnel Project and human resources requests.

• DTC Fee Increase – Primary Tank Tunnel Project
• Structural Change Order - Primary Tank Tunnel Project
• Primary Heat Exchanger Plenum update
• Human Resources Leave without Pay Request
• Treasurer's Report for FY 21-22

Public Safety Commission

The commission will review monthly Fire Department reports, including call comparisons and training. The agenda also includes updates on the Mass Vaccination Plan and the Arrigoni Bridge.

• Mass Vaccination Plan update
• Arrigoni Bridge update
• New Car 1 and New Car 3 status
• Truck 1 repairs
• Staff Vehicle Replacement

The Public Safety Commission approved the October 18 meeting minutes as presented. Fire Chief Jay Woron reported 335 emergency calls for the month, up 28 from last month, and discussed ongoing issues including four firefighter vacancies, mutual aid ambulance problems, and plans to replace aging equipment. No public hearings or formal votes on new policies were held.

• Approved October 18 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Heard monthly report: 335 emergency calls, up 28 from last month
• Discussed 4 firefighter vacancies causing overtime
• Noted plan to purchase Alpine Software for ~$55,000 with 5-year payment plan
• Reported 55 of 130 alarm boxes out of service, repair cost ~$10,000 each
• Discussed replacing two 30+ year-old alarm printers at $116,000
• Explored grants for protective clothing and vehicle replacements

Public Safety Commission

The Public Safety Commission will review monthly reports on overtime balances and incident statistics. The meeting also includes discussions regarding a proposed Police Athletic League (P.A.L.) program and new police vehicles.

• Proposed Police Athletic League (P.A.L.) Program
• New Police Vehicles
• Monthly Overtime Balances report
• Incident Statistics Report
• Hiring Update

The commission approved the October 18, 2021 minutes. Chief Costa reported 4,200 calls for service in October, including 3-4 shootings, and noted the department is short-staffed with only 94 of 108 officers on full duty. He plans to hire 13 lateral officers to increase strength to 121, and discussed partnerships with River Valley Services and Gilead Social Services for mental health and homelessness response.

• Approved October 18, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed hiring 13 lateral officers to reach 121 officers
• Reported 4,200 calls for service in October, 3-4 shootings
• Noted 94 of 108 officers on full duty due to leave
• Planned partnership with River Valley Services Mobile Crisis Team starting Jan 1, 2022
• Discussed purchasing six new police vehicles
• Reported body camera implementation delayed to spring 2022
• Discussed establishing Police Athletic League program

Public Works & Facilities Commission

The commission will discuss new business regarding Landfill Trail naming and 2022 paving projects. The agenda includes progress updates on the Recreation Center, Veterans Pool, and Harbor Park Boardwalk. Monthly reports for the highway and parks divisions will also be reviewed.

• Landfill Trail naming
• 2022 Paving projects
• Dog Park
• Recreation Center Update
• Harbor Park Boardwalk Update

The Public Works & Facilities Commission discussed 2022 paving priorities, including Saybrook Road/Wall Street, and noted $2.4M in River/Cog money will fund some projects. They heard public proposals for naming the landfill trail 'Midden Panorama Trail', a dog park, and a nature center, but took no formal votes on these items. The commission approved the October 13, 2021 minutes unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were informational or discussion-only.

• Approved October 13, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed 2022 paving priorities; $2.4M River/Cog funds allocated to some projects
• Heard proposal to name landfill trail 'Midden Panorama Trail' (no action)
• Discussed potential dog park at old Pool & Tennis Club site (no action)
• Discussed potential nature center at Forest City Farms (no action)
• Reviewed October 2021 building permits ($380,289 in permits)
• Reviewed October 2021 monthly reports for Highway and Parks Divisions

Mary Shepherd Home Citizens' Advisory Committee

The committee will review previous minutes and hear from guest Scott Enright of Gilead Services. Discussion topics include public transportation, occupancy, tenant issues, building issues, and Middlesex Health.

• Public Transportation
• Occupancy
• Tenant Issues
• Building Issues
• Middlesex Health

The Shepherd Home Advisory Committee meeting on November 10, 2021, was primarily informational, with no formal votes or decisions. Updates were provided on tenant mental health support, occupancy, bus transportation, building issues, and health care services. The committee discussed follow-up actions on transit restoration and adjacent property development.

• No formal decisions or votes were recorded at the meeting
• Discussed follow-up on restoring bus pickup at Shepherd's front entrance
• Noted plans to initiate unit inspections on November 10 and 17
• Acknowledged efforts to secure specs and bids for roof replacement
• Noted Middlesex Health on-site clinic started and follow-up scheduled for November 10

Planning & Zoning Commission

The commission will elect new officers and adopt the 2022 meeting calendar. Members will also discuss activity at Country Club Road and a proposed land transfer for sidewalks and utilities on Boston Road.

• Election of Commission officers
• Discussion regarding Map-Lot 03-0229 Country Club Road
• Adoption of the 2022 meeting calendar
• Proposed land transfer and easement at Map-Lot 14-0007 Boston Road

The commission elected Thom Pattavina as chair, Nicholas Fazzino as vice-chair, and Shanay Fulton as secretary, all by 7-0 votes. It approved the 2022 meeting calendar (6-1, Fulton opposed) and approved an affirmative G.S. 8-24 report for a land transfer and easement at 733 Washington Street (7-0). No public hearings were held.

• Elected Thom Pattavina as chair (7-0)
• Elected Nicholas Fazzino as vice-chair (7-0)
• Elected Shanay Fulton as secretary (7-0)
• Appointed Catherine Johnson as RiverCog representative (7-0)
• Appointed Kellin Atherton as alternate RiverCog representative (7-0)
• Adopted 2022 meeting calendar (6-1)
• Approved affirmative G.S. 8-24 report for land transfer at 733 Washington Street (7-0)
• Approved October 27, 2021 minutes (5-0-2)

American Rescue Plan Task Force

The American Rescue Plan Act Task Force will discuss potential projects for ARPA expenditures. The agenda does not list specific projects or dollar amounts.

• Potential projects for ARPA expenditures

American Rescue Plan Task Force

The Task Force will review minutes from the October 13, 2021, special meeting. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding potential projects for American Rescue Plan Act expenditures.

• Review of October 13, 2021, Special Meeting minutes
• Discussion of potential projects for ARPA expenditures

The American Rescue Plan Act Task Force met and approved the October 13, 2021 special meeting minutes. No substantive decisions were made; the group discussed a potential rubric for evaluating ARPA projects and agreed to develop a survey and financial report.

• Approved October 13, 2021 special meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed potential rubric for ARPA project evaluation
• Agreed to provide rubric and prepare survey for priorities
• Suggested creating a running financial report for expenditures

Code Enforcement Committee

The committee will review minutes from the October 28 meeting and receive updates from several municipal departments. The agenda also includes discussions regarding ongoing items for various properties.

• Review of Wharfside Commons
• Update on McDonough School
• Discussion of 159 Boston Road and 520 East Main Street
• Review of 22 Fowler Avenue
• Updates on 399 deKoven Drive and 52 North Main Street

The Code Enforcement Committee met on Nov. 10, 2021, and unanimously approved the minutes from its Oct. 28 meeting. No public comments were made, and no new business was reported. The committee received updates on several properties, including ongoing blight and fire code violations, but took no substantive actions beyond the minutes approval.

• Approved Oct. 28, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Design Review & Preservation Board, Middletown

The board will review a proposal to reconstruct part of the house and build a new garage at 135 High Street. The meeting also includes a tax abatement review for 73 Main Street and the adoption of the 2022 meeting schedule.

• Reconstruction of portion of house and new garage at 135 High Street
• Historical Structure Rehabilitation Tax Abatement Review for 73 Main Street
• Adoption of the 2022 Regular Meeting Schedule

The Design Review & Preservation Board approved a proposal to reconstruct part of a house and build a new garage at 135 High Street, subject to review of garage elevations. It also approved a historical structure rehabilitation tax abatement for 73 Main Street, with conditions to follow Department of Interior standards and notify the board of any color changes. The board adopted its 2022 meeting schedule and approved minutes from two prior meetings.

• Approved 135 High Street reconstruction and new garage, subject to garage elevation review (5-0)
• Approved 73 Main Street rehabilitation tax abatement, with conditions (5-0)
• Adopted 2022 regular meeting schedule (5-0)
• Approved minutes of September 8, 2021 meeting (5-0)
• Approved minutes of September 15, 2021 meeting (5-0)

80 Harbor Drive Renovation Building Committee

The 80 Harbor Drive Renovation Building Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and receive a budget update. The agenda also includes a tour of the building.

• Budget update
• Tour of building

Arts Commission

The MCA Music Subcommittee will meet via WebEx to discuss the impact of the pandemic on music in Middletown. The committee will also address choices for Music Ambassadors and plans for the Commission's 50th Anniversary.

• Discussion of pandemic influences on music in Middletown
• Selection of Music Ambassador choices
• Planning for the Commission's 50th Anniversary, including music records and participation
• Approval of minutes from December 14, 2020

The MCA Music Subcommittee voted unanimously to recommend Michael Arafeh for the 2022 music ambassador honorarium. The recommendation will go to the full commission. The subcommittee also discussed pandemic impacts on local music and ideas for the commission's 50th anniversary celebration.

• Recommended Michael Arafeh for 2022 music ambassador honorarium (unanimous)
• Suggested Carolyn Halstead for 2023 honorarium (discussion only)
• Discussed 50th anniversary ideas, including a First Night celebration (no vote)

Board of Health

This agenda contains procedural items for a regular Middletown Board of Health meeting. It includes department reports and the approval of June 8, 2021 minutes, but no specific new business or public hearing topics are listed.

• Department reports from Kevin Elak and Jennifer Sparks
• Approval of June 8, 2021 meeting minutes

The Middletown Board of Health approved the minutes from the June 8, 2021 meeting. The director provided updates on COVID-19 vaccine and booster clinics, homebound vaccinations, pediatric vaccines, testing, the opioid crisis, and new hires. The board discussed the Harbor Park homeless encampment and the opening of the warming center on November 22, 2021. No public hearings or old business were conducted.

• Approved June 8, 2021 meeting minutes
• Discussed Harbor Park homeless encampment
• Discussed opening of warming center on November 22, 2021

Board of Education

The Board of Education meeting originally scheduled for November 9, 2021, has been cancelled. It is rescheduled as a special meeting for November 16, 2021, at 6:30 P.M. in the Council Chambers.

• Rescheduled special meeting on November 16, 2021

Economic Development Commission

The regular meeting of the Middletown Economic Development Committee scheduled for November 9, 2021, has been cancelled. This notice contains only a meeting cancellation and no other agenda items.

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Committee will discuss updates regarding the $55 million bond, Arcade development, and the Riverfront Master Plan. The meeting also includes reviews of small business grant applications and a tax abatement for 73 Main Street.

• Update on $55 Million Bond
• Small Business Grant reviews (Relish 670 LLC, Yu’s LLC, and Cantina Café Ristorante LLC)
• Tax Stabilization Agreement for Newfield Street of Middletown LLC
• Historic Structure Rehabilitation Tax Abatement for 73 Main Street
• Updates on Arcade Development and Riverfront Master Plan

Common Council

This biennial meeting consists of ceremonial procedures for newly elected officials. The agenda includes the introduction of Common Councilmembers and the administration of oaths of office to members-elect for the Board of Education and the Planning and Zoning Commission.

• Oath of office for Board of Education members-elect
• Oath of office for Planning and Zoning Commission members-elect
• Introduction of Common Councilmembers

Parking Advisory Committee

The November 9, 2021, meeting of the Parking Advisory Committee has been cancelled. The cancellation is due to the Common Council Biennial Meeting taking place on the same day.

• Cancellation of the November 9, 2021, committee meeting

Arts Commission

The Arts Commission Executive Subcommittee will review a report from the Arts Coordinator. This report includes updates on MCA Municipal Grant Awards, public art initiatives, and the FY2023 budget.

• MCA Municipal Grant Awards
• Public Art Initiatives
• FY2023 Budget

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education Budget Committee meeting scheduled for November 8, 2021, has been canceled. The notice was issued by the Office of the Superintendent.

• Cancellation of the November 8, 2021, Budget Committee meeting

Housing Authority

The agenda consists of routine procedural items and departmental reports. No specific new projects or legislative actions are detailed in this document.

• Approval of October 12, 2021 minutes
• Review of financial and accounts receivable reports
• Section 8 and personnel reports
• Maintenance and modernization updates

The Middletown Housing Authority held a regular meeting with no public comment. Commissioners unanimously approved the October 22, 2021 meeting minutes and the bills as submitted. Staff reported on accounts receivable changes, Section 8 unit counts, maintenance work orders, and ongoing modernization projects. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved October 22, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved bills as submitted (unanimous)

Anti-Racism Task Force

The Anti-Racism Task Force approved the minutes of its October 25, 2021 special meeting unanimously. The meeting included discussions on setting the 2022 meeting calendar, submitting Civilian Review Board recommendations by December, and developing a strategic two-year plan, but no formal decisions were made on these items.

• Approved minutes of October 25, 2021 special meeting (unanimous; Ed Ford Jr. and Jeanette Blackwell absent)

Arts Commission

The Public Art Sub-Committee will review the restoration of the John Risley bench and screen. The meeting also includes discussions regarding budget suggestions for Major Public Art and a grant proposal for a Collection Supervisor.

• John Risley bench & screen restoration review
• 2021-2022 Major Public Art budget suggestions
• Collection Supervisor grant proposal review
• Review of donation by Judge Marino
• New initiatives for 50 year celebration

The Public Art Sub-Committee met and discussed potential public art projects, including window displays in empty storefronts and art at city entrances, but made no final decisions. Two items—a collection supervisor grant proposal and a donation by Judge Marino—were tabled. The meeting was largely brainstorming with no substantive approvals.

• Tabled collection supervisor grant proposal
• Tabled donation by Judge Marino

Technology Advisory Committee

The Technology Advisory Committee will discuss updates regarding building access at the Green St. Building. The committee also scheduled an executive session to discuss security strategy matters.

• Update on Green St. Building – Building Access
• Executive Session regarding security strategy

Technology Advisory Committee

The Technology Advisory Committee will discuss updates regarding Green St. Building access. The committee will also review a request for appropriation to reclassify an Administrative Secretary position. An executive session is scheduled to discuss security strategy.

• Update on Green St. Building access
• Request for appropriation to reclassify Administrative Secretary position
• Executive Session regarding security strategy

The Technology Advisory Committee unanimously approved a request to reclassify an Administrative Secretary II position to Administrative Secretary III, with funding appropriation. The committee also entered executive session to discuss security strategy and received updates on various IT projects, including multi-factor authentication and network upgrades.

• Approved reclassification of Administrative Secretary II to III (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from previous meeting (unanimous)
• Entered executive session for security strategy discussion (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The regular meeting scheduled for November 4, 2021, was canceled due to a lack of quorum. No other agenda items were listed in the notice.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a variance request to install a handicap ramp and walkway at 13 Wall Street. The board will also consider adopting the 2022 regular meeting schedule.

• Public hearing for a handicap ramp and walkway at 13 Wall Street
• Adoption of the 2022 Regular Meeting Schedule
• Approval of October 7, 2021, meeting minutes

Mattabassett District Board

The Engineering Committee will review a DTC fee increase for the Primary Tank Tunnel Project and a change order for additional work. The meeting also includes discussions on odor control, the Fuel Cell Project, and the draft NPDES permit.

• DTC Fee Increase for Primary Tank Tunnel Project
• Change Order for additional Scab Slab in Primary Tank Tunnel Project
• Decision regarding foregoing the Fuel Cell Project
• Review of odor complaints and new testing equipment
• Discussion of Draft NPDES Permit issued November 1, 2021

Mattabassett District Board

The Engineering Committee will review proposals for a heat exchanger plenum and plant structural improvements. The committee will also discuss DTC fee increases and a decision regarding the Fuel Cell Project.

• DTC Fee Increase for Primary Tank Tunnel Project
• Change Order for additional Scab Slab in Primary Tank Tunnel Project
• Proposal for Primary Heat Exchanger Plenum
• General Plant Structural Investigation improvements
• Decision on foregoing the Fuel Cell Project

Mattabassett District Board

The Engineering Committee will review proposals for a Primary Heat Exchanger Plenum and a DTC fee increase for the Primary Tank Tunnel Project. The committee will also discuss odor control measures, plant structural investigations, and future capital planning.

• DTC Fee Increase for Primary Tank Tunnel Project
• Change Order for additional Scab Slab (Primary Tank Tunnel Project)
• Proposal for Primary Heat Exchanger Plenum
• Discussion of odor complaints and new testing equipment
• Decision on foregoing the Fuel Cell Project

The Engineering Committee approved three recommendations for the Board of Directors: purchasing a primary heat exchanger plenum from Arvos Schmidtsche Schack LLC (not to exceed $125,000), increasing DTC fees for the Primary Tank Tunnel Project (up to $29,000), and approving change order #2 for the same project ($145,195.40). The committee also discussed but did not approve a fuel cell project, citing contract language and entity structure risks, and noted no capital items.

• Approved recommendation to purchase primary heat exchanger plenum materials from Arvos Schmidtsche Schack LLC, not to exceed $125,000, waiving bidding (motion by Argazzi, second by Bauer)
• Approved recommendation to increase DTC fee for Primary Tank Tunnel Project up to $29,000 (motion by Bauer, second by Naples)
• Approved recommendation for change order #2 to Structural Preservation Systems, LLC for $145,195.40 for scab slab (motion by Bauer, second by Naples)
• Discussed fuel cell project proposal; decided not to proceed due to contract language and entity structure risks
• Adjourned at 7:15 PM (motion by Naples)

Board of Education

The November 4, 2021, meeting of the Middletown Board of Education Curriculum Committee has been canceled. This notice was issued by the Office of the Superintendent.

Water Pollution Control Authority

The Middletown Water Pollution Control Authority will review October fund balance and consumption reports. The meeting includes updates on the Mattabassett Pump Station, John S. Roth Plant, and Pameacha projects. A memo regarding proposed 2022 bonding will also be presented.

• Memo regarding proposed 2022 bonding
• Mattabassett Pump Station Project update
• John S. Roth Plant/Wellfield update
• Pameacha Project update
• Durham Water update

The Water Pollution Control Authority approved a goodwill adjustment of $2,442.75 for 25 Hickory Circle. The board also approved the 2022 meeting schedule and the minutes of the October 7, 2021 meeting. A motion to tentatively fund the Pameacha project via the Rescue Plan was approved unanimously. No public hearing comments were made.

• Approved minutes of October 7, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 meeting schedule to be sent to Town Clerk (unanimous)
• Approved goodwill adjustment of $2,442.75 for 25 Hickory Circle
• Approved motion to tentatively fund Pameacha project via Rescue Plan (unanimous)

Russell Library Board of Trustees

The Governance Committee of the Russell Library Board of Trustees will review the Community Dialogue Framework. The committee will also conduct a policy review and address virtual meeting etiquette.

• Review of Community Dialogue Framework
• Policy Review
• Virtual Meeting Etiquette

The Governance Committee of the Russell Library Board of Trustees met online and approved a motion to revise virtual meeting etiquette guidelines and urge the board to append a link to the monthly agenda. The committee also approved the minutes from the October 6 meeting and discussed policy review, deciding to tackle the display/public posting policy next. No public comment was received.

• Approved minutes from Oct. 6, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved revising virtual meeting etiquette guidelines and urging board to append link to monthly agenda (unanimous)
• Decided to review display/public posting policy next

Clean Energy Taskforce

The taskforce will vote on whether the Mayor should sign an award letter for Sustainable CT grant funds. Members will also discuss updates regarding municipal EV readiness and building committee projects. Additionally, the group is seeking volunteers to review energy services responses for the Police HQ.

• Vote on Mayor signing Sustainable CT grant award letter
• Seeking volunteers for Police HQ energy services RFQ evaluation committee
• Update on Municipal EV Readiness Program and City vehicle fleet conversion
• Discussion of building committee updates including School Roofs and Vets Park
• Review of charter revision ballot item regarding term limits

Sustainable CT Sustainability Team

The Sustainable Middletown Team will discuss feedback on the Mayor's draft sustainability plan framework and the status of missing departmental memos. The agenda also includes discussions on grant applications, climate resilience funding, and new leadership for the team.

• Feedback on Mayor Ben’s draft sustainability plan framework
• Status of missing departmental memos from Finance, Purchasing, Payroll, and others
• Discussion regarding Climate Resilience Act funding
• Review of River COG Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan for Middletown
• Identification of potential grant application collaborations

Inland / Wetlands & Water Courses Agency

The agency will hold public hearings regarding road and housing development on Nathan Hale Road, as well as culvert repairs on George Street. The meeting also includes a review of a shed installation at 15 Azalea Drive and the adoption of the 2022 meeting schedule.

• Construction of road and five single-family homes on Nathan Hale Road
• Culvert and roadway repair on George Street
• Installation of a 12ft x 16ft shed at 15 Azalea Drive
• Adoption of the 2022 Regular Meeting Schedule
• Environmental compatibility application for 499 Mile Lane

The Middletown Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Agency approved a temporary culvert and roadway repair on George Street to address storm damage and flooding, including installing 20 ft of new pipe and closing pipes on an adjacent property. The agency also continued the public hearing for a proposed road and five single-family homes on Nathan Hale Road to its December 1st meeting, and adopted the 2022 regular meeting schedule. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved George Street culvert and roadway repair with 20 ft pipe installation (unanimous)
• Continued Nathan Hale Road public hearing to December 1st meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted 2022 regular meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Approved October 6, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Russell Library Board of Trustees

The scheduled November 2, 2021, meeting of the Russell Library Executive Committee has been canceled. The provided notice contains no other agenda items.

• Cancellation of the November 2, 2021, meeting

Russell Library Board of Trustees

The Russell Library Executive Committee meeting includes discussions on COVID-19 response, facilities assessment, and the library operations plan. The agenda also covers LION-LCI migration status and a workplace climate survey. A motion is presented to approve the minutes from the October 5, 2021, regular meeting.

• Approval of October 5, 2021, meeting minutes
• COVID-19 response discussion
• Facilities assessment and operations plan review
• LION-LCI migration status update
• Motion for executive session regarding legal and personnel matters

Insurance & Claims

The regular meeting of the Insurance & Claims Committee scheduled for November 2, 2021, has been cancelled. This memorandum contains no other agenda items.

• Cancellation of the November 2, 2021, Insurance & Claims Committee meeting

Common Council

The Common Council scheduled a special meeting for a workshop session. The agenda is limited to the opening and closing of the period for questions to directors.

• Questions to Directors workshop

This was a special 'Questions to Directors' meeting with no formal votes or decisions. The Council heard updates on the proposed Rec Center energy improvements, the HR director recruitment, and the Tall Timbers road acceptance, but took no action.

• No formal decisions made; meeting was for questions only
• Adjourned at 7:00 PM (12-0)

Common Council

The Common Council will consider several resolutions, including salary upgrades for Public Works mechanics and a tax stabilization agreement for 545 Main Street. The agenda also includes updates on the Arrigoni Bridge Project and American Rescue Plan expenditures. Additionally, the council will review energy service agreements and grant allocations for the Health Department.

• Tax Stabilization Agreement for property at 545 Main Street
• 20-year Energy Services Agreement with Symbiont Energy LLC
• Salary upgrades for Master Mechanic and Lead Master Mechanic positions
• $20,000 Public Health Block Grant allocation to Columbus House
• Acceptance of Tall Timbers Road as a public highway

The Common Council approved a 20-year Energy Services Agreement with Symbiont Energy LLC (via Middletown Microgrid 1, LLC) for the renovated Recreation Center, with a fixed lease payment not to exceed $31,037 per month plus maintenance fees. The Council also approved a 10-year tax stabilization agreement for 545 Main Street, reclassified several AFSCME positions, and accepted Tall Timbers Road as a public highway after the Mayor broke a tie vote. The meeting included a lengthy public hearing and discussion on the Board of Education's independent investigation, but no formal action was taken on that matter.

• Approved 20-year Energy Services Agreement with Symbiont Energy LLC for Recreation Center (12-0)
• Approved 10-year tax stabilization agreement for 545 Main Street for 545 Main Realty, LLC (12-0)
• Approved reclassification of Park Maintainer I to Park Maintainer II, retroactive to July 1, 2021 (12-0)
• Approved amended resolution accepting Tall Timbers Road as public highway (Mayor broke 6-6 tie)
• Approved $20,000 Public Health Block Grant allocation to Columbus House Warming Center (12-0)
• Approved revised job descriptions for Civilian Dispatcher, Trainer, Educational Technologist, and Lead Dispatcher (12-0 each)
• Approved salary upgrades for Master Mechanic and Lead Master Mechanic, retroactive to July 1, 2021 (12-0 each)
• Approved appointments to ARP Task Force, Recreation Center Building Committee, and Conservation & Agriculture Commission

Urban Forestry Commission

The Urban Forestry Commission will review reports from the Tree Warden and Public Works. The meeting includes updates on fall planting, stump grinding, and a new planting plan for Veteran’s Park.

• Veteran’s Park Planting Plan
• Arboretum Map
• Fall planting update
• Stump grinding update

Code Enforcement Committee

The committee will review the minutes from the October 14, 2021, meeting and receive updates from various municipal departments. The agenda also includes discussions regarding several specific properties under old business.

• Approval of October 14, 2021, meeting minutes
• Updates from Mayor’s Office, Public Works, and Health Department
• Review of Wharfside Commons
• Review of McDonough School
• Property reviews for 159 Boston Road and 520 East Main Street

The committee unanimously approved the minutes of the October 14 meeting and recommended clean-and-lien procedures for properties at 212 Sisk Street and 20 White Road due to disrepair. They also agreed to hold special meetings on November 10 and 24 because regular meetings fall on holidays. No other substantive decisions were made; most updates were informational.

• Approved October 14, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended clean-and-lien procedures for 212 Sisk Street and 20 White Road
• Scheduled special meetings for November 10 and 24 at 9:00 a.m.

Affirmative Action Monitoring Committee

The Affirmative Action Monitoring Committee will discuss the 2020-2021 fourth quarter and year end report. The committee will also review a vacancy report and vote to approve the 2022 meeting schedule.

• Approval of October 28, 2021 agenda
• Approval of August 26, 2021 minutes
• Discussion of 2020-2021 fourth quarter and year end report
• Discussion of vacancy report
• Approval of 2022 meeting schedule

The Affirmative Action Monitoring Committee met on October 28, 2021, but lacked a quorum, so no official business was conducted. The agenda, minutes, and reports were not approved or reviewed. The next regular meeting is scheduled for January 27, 2022.

• No decisions made due to lack of quorum
• Agenda not approved due to lack of quorum
• Minutes for August 26, 2021 not approved due to lack of quorum
• 4th Quarter and Year-End Report not reviewed due to lack of quorum
• Vacancy Report not reviewed due to lack of quorum
• 2021 attendance not reviewed due to lack of quorum

Walter C. Jones Fund

This agenda contains only procedural boilerplate for a scheduled committee meeting. No specific business items, proposals, or decisions are listed in the document.

The Walter C. Jones Fund committee approved a $742 request from Middletown Recreation and Community Services. They also discussed closed applications from September and reviewed October applications and activity. The meeting was procedural with no other substantive decisions.

• Approved $742 for Middletown Recreation and Community Services (unanimous)
• Approved October meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 23, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Commission will conduct public hearings regarding a Wesleyan University construction project and a zoning map amendment for Long Hill Road properties. The agenda also includes a discussion on Country Club Road and a proposed land swap between the City and D&V Development of Middletown LLC.

• Site plan review for a new science building and Shanklin Building renovations at 265 Church St
• Zoning map amendment for properties at 720, 816, 833, and 834 Long Hill Road
• Subdivision request for 16 lots on Military Road (postponed to November 10, 2021)
• Discussion regarding activity at Map-Lot 03-0229 Country Club Road
• Proposed land swap involving 4.8 acres on Mile Lane for acreage and an easement on Newfield Street

The Middletown Planning and Zoning Commission approved the site plan for Wesleyan University's new science building and associated renovations at 265 Church St, with conditions including staff and department comments. The commission also approved a zoning map amendment correcting errors for four properties on Long Hill Road, and granted an affirmative G.S. 8-24 review for a land swap involving city property on Mile Lane and Newfield Street. A subdivision request for 16 lots on Military Road was postponed to November 10.

• Approved Wesleyan science building site plan with conditions (5-1)
• Approved zoning map amendment for 720, 816, 833, 834 Long Hill Road to PRD zone (6-0)
• Granted affirmative G.S. 8-24 review for land swap with D&V Development (5-1)
• Postponed subdivision request for 16 lots on Military Road to Nov 10
• Approved minutes of Oct 13 meeting with corrections (5-0-1)

Arts Commission

The agenda consists of routine procedural items. There is no substantive business or new reports listed for this session.

• Approval of September 22, 2021 meeting minutes

The Middletown Arts Commission approved a letter of apology for insensitive comments made by some commissioners during a previous meeting about the LGBTQIA+ Pride 'City Hall Take Over' project. The chair read a letter from the mayor expressing concern, and the commission unanimously voted to draft a sincere apology. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Approved minutes of September 22, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as written (unanimous)
• Approved drafting a letter of apology for insensitive comments (unanimous)

Downtown Business District

The Downtown Business District is holding its monthly meeting to receive updates from city and community partners. The agenda includes committee reports on advertising, promotion, beautification, and various grant programs.

• Updates from city partners including Mayor, Police, and Public Works
• Updates from community partners including St. Vincent’s and Wesleyan University
• Committee reports on advertising, promotion, and maintenance
• Reports on matching and event grant programs

The Middletown Downtown Business District met on October 27, 2021, and discussed several city issues, including a proposal to remove parking meters on Main Street and replace metered lots with kiosks, which members opposed. Police reported a decrease in panhandling on Main Street but an increase at highway entrances. The group also discussed plans to assist people living in tents at Harbor Park, with a warming center opening soon. A proposal to relocate St. Vincent's off Main Street was raised for future discussion. The minutes were approved, and the treasurer's report was accepted.

• Approved October 2021 minutes (all in favor)
• Accepted treasurer's report (all in favor)
• Tabled influencer project for promotional content
• Agreed to keep gift card company and lower price point for new order
• Discussed parking meter removal and kiosk proposal, with members opposed
• Discussed St. Vincent's relocation, to be placed on next meeting agenda

Lower Connecticut River Valley

The meeting includes motions for transportation amendments, including a bridge replacement on RT 82 and traffic signal updates. The council will also discuss ARPA-related projects and the regional housing plan.

• $2,800,000 bridge replacement over Strong’s Brook on RT 82
• $473,000 project to replace traffic control signals in District 2
• Air Line Trail connection grant between East Hampton and Portland
• Approval of the Executive Director's contract
• Discussion of ARPA County Set Aside Projects

Finance & Government Operations Commission

The Finance & Government Operations Commission will discuss state grants for public health preparedness and a real estate tax agreement with 545 Main Realty LLC. The agenda also includes resolutions regarding Tall Timbers Road and the Middletown Recreation Center energy services.

• State grants totaling $43,454, $14,000, and $13,211 for health programs
• Real Estate Tax Fixing Agreement with 545 Main Realty LLC
• Acceptance of Tall Timbers Road as a Public Roadway
• Middletown Recreation Center Energy Services Agreement
• Water/Sewer Solar Contract discussion with Verogy

The Finance & Government Operations Commission unanimously approved three state health grants totaling $70,665, a tax fixing agreement with 545 Main Realty LLC, acceptance of Tall Timbers Road as a public roadway, an energy services agreement for the Middletown Recreation Center, and a solar contract with Verogy for the Water/Sewer Headquarters. All decisions were approved without dissent.

• Approved $43,454 state grant for Public Health Emergency Preparedness (unanimous)
• Approved $14,000 state grant for MRC Public Health Emergency Preparedness (unanimous)
• Approved $13,211 state grant for Prevention Health Block Grant (unanimous)
• Approved resolution authorizing Mayor to sign tax fixing agreement with 545 Main Realty LLC (unanimous)
• Approved resolution authorizing acceptance of Tall Timbers Road as public roadway (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for Middletown Recreation Center Energy Services Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Water/Sewer Solar Contract with Verogy (unanimous)

Finance & Government Operations Commission

The commission will review state grant confirmations for public health preparedness and preventative health. The agenda also includes a tax agreement with 545 Main Realty LLC and the acceptance of Tall Timbers Road as a public roadway. Financial reports regarding taxes and expenditures will be presented.

• State grants for Public Health Emergency Preparedness totaling $43,454 and $14,000
• Preventative Health Block Grant of $13,211 in State funds
• Tax Fixing Agreement between the City and 545 Main Realty LLC
• Acceptance of Tall Timbers Road as a Public Roadway

80 Harbor Drive Renovation Building Committee

The 80 Harbor Drive Renovation Building Committee will discuss budget updates and tenant renovation progress. The committee will also consider authorizing the hiring of Tighe and Bond for engineering specifications. Additionally, authorizations for the Chair and Vice Chair are on the agenda.

• Authorization to hire Tighe and Bond for engineering specifications
• Budget update
• Tenant renovation update
• Authorizations for the Chair/Vice Chair

The 80 Harbor Drive Renovation Building Committee met and unanimously approved hiring Tighe and Bond for engineering bid specifications at a cost of $103,500.00. Members also authorized the Chair and Vice Chair to execute purchase and change orders to move the project forward. No public members attended, and no ARPA funds have been spent to date.

• Approved hiring Tighe and Bond for engineering bid specifications, $103,500 (unanimous)
• Authorized Chair and Vice Chair to execute purchase and change orders (unanimous)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)

Area Transit District

The committee will discuss a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and review a CT DOT progress update report. The meeting also includes discussions on implementation plans and the election of co-chairs.

• MOA Discussion
• CT DOT Progress Update Report
• Implementation Plan discussion
• Election of Co-Chairs

Parking Advisory Committee

The Parking Advisory Committee is meeting to review several parking-related topics. Agenda items include the replacement of parking meters and evaluating paid parking hours for streets and lots. The committee will also evaluate pricing for parking passes.

• Replacement of parking meters
• Paid parking hours for streets and lots
• Evaluation of parking pass pricing

The Parking Advisory Committee unanimously recommended that the mayor stop parking enforcement/collection in city lots at 4pm to incentivize employees to park there and free up Main Street metered spaces. The committee also discussed replacing parking meters with kiosks, with some members voicing opposition to kiosks on Main Street. No final decision was made on the kiosk replacement.

• Recommended to mayor to stop lot enforcement at 4pm (unanimous)
• Discussed replacing parking meters with kiosks; no vote taken
• Members Jen Alexander and Mark Levine recorded opposition to kiosks on Main Street

Sanitary Disposal District Commission

The regular meeting of the Middletown Sanitary Disposal District Commission scheduled for October 26, 2021, has been cancelled.

Resource Recycling Advisory Council

The commission will review updates from the Recycling Coordinator regarding food waste collection, glass, and recycling rates. The meeting also includes discussions on the Swap Shack and Rescuing Leftover Cuisine.

• Recycling Coordinator’s Report (food waste, glass, and school updates)
• DEEP Grant Opportunity
• Swap Shack Update
• Discussion of Rescuing Leftover Cuisine

The Middletown Resource Recycling Advisory Commission held a regular meeting with no formal votes. Members discussed plastic film recycling, food-waste collections, school cafeteria trays, and the Swap Shack signage and setup. The minutes from the September 27 meeting were accepted.

• Accepted minutes of Sept 27, 2021 meeting
• Discussed black plastic trash bags for film recycling (no decision)
• Discussed school cafeteria washable trays (no decision)
• Reviewed draft Swap Shack signage (no decision)
• Encouraged promoting Randolph Road food-waste drop-off

Board of Education

The Board of Education will discuss a tentative agreement with the Middletown Federation of Teachers and the Acting Superintendent Contract. The meeting also includes possible action on pending claims and a personnel complaint. Additionally, the Board will consider updating signature forms for Fresh Fruit & Vegetable grants.

• Update Authorized Signatures Change Form for Fresh Fruit & Vegetable grants
• Discussion on tentative agreement with Middletown Federation of Teachers
• Discussion regarding Acting Superintendent Contract
• Possible action on pending claims and personnel complaint

Lower Connecticut River Valley

The Regional Planning Committee will receive updates on the RPOCD and the Regional Housing Plan. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding a Stone Wall Ordinance.

• Regional Housing Plan update
• Stone Wall Ordinance discussion
• RPOCD update

Anti-Racism Task Force

The Anti-Racism Task Force will hold a special meeting to hear presentations regarding the CRB. The body will also discuss plans for submitting a CRB recommendation by December, the NCCJ report, and a strategic two-year plan.

• Presentations regarding CRB by Steven Mednick, Dr. Jorge Camacho, and David Roane
• Discussion on submitting a CRB recommendation by the December meeting
• Review of the NCCJ Report
• Discussion of a strategic two-year plan

The Anti-Racism Task Force approved minutes from September 27, 2021, with an amendment about a Board of Education candidate posting videos of children of color fighting. They also unanimously passed a motion recommending the mayor hire the right firm for the Board of Education's racism investigation. Discussion on a two-year strategic plan was postponed to the next meeting.

• Approved September 27, 2021 minutes with amendment (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to minutes re: BOE candidate videos (unanimous)
• Recommended mayor ensure right firm hired for BOE racism investigation (unanimous)
• Postponed two-year strategic plan discussion to next meeting

Recreation & Community Services Commission

The commission will review department reports for Senior Services and Recreation, including updates on the Veteran’s Pool and Recreation Center. The agenda also includes an update on the Community Needs Assessment Project and discussion of the Agility Energy Proposal.

• Senior Dept program updates
• Recreation Center update
• Veteran’s Pool update
• Community Needs Assessment Project update
• Agility Energy Proposal review

The Recreation & Community Services Commission unanimously approved the September meeting minutes. Staff reported on ongoing programs, including COVID-19 booster and flu clinics, and progress on the Beman school Rec Center improvements. A community needs assessment project was announced to inform future programming.

• Approved September meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed community needs assessment project (no formal action)

School Readiness Council

The Middletown School Readiness Council has cancelled its regularly scheduled October 20, 2021 meeting. There is no business to attend to at this time. The council will next meet on November 17, 2021.

• Cancellation of the October 20, 2021 meeting

Citizens Advisory Committee

The Middletown Citizens Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss CARES Act funding. The committee will consider approving the third amendment to the 2019 AAP for a CARES CV grant and receive an update on grants awarded to date.

• Approval of Third Amendment to 2019 AAP for CARES CV Grant
• Update on CARES Act Grants awarded-to-date
• Approval of September 15, 2021 Meeting minutes

The Citizens' Advisory Committee unanimously approved the third amendment to the 2019 Annual Action Plan for the CARES CV Grant, reallocating unused funds to City Hall ADA improvements and COVID mitigation. The committee also approved the minutes from the September 15, 2021 meeting with one abstention and received an update on CARES Act grants awarded to date.

• Approved third amendment to 2019 AAP for CARES CV Grant (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 15, 2021 meeting (unanimous, with one abstention)

Board of Education

The Facilities Committee will receive updates on the Macdonough Feasibility Study and the Beman Middle School Construction Project. The meeting also includes discussions regarding roofing projects at Snow and Farm Hill, the 5-year capital projects plan, and staffing vacancies within the Facilities Department.

• Update on Macdonough Feasibility Study
• Status of Beman Middle School Construction Project
• Update on Snow and Farm Hill Roofing Projects
• Discussion on 5-Year Plan for Capital Projects (2021/2022)
• Facilities Department staffing vacancies

Board of Education

The Facilities Committee will discuss a land swap at Kaplan Drive involving Lawrence School. The meeting includes updates on the Beman Middle School construction project and roofing projects at Snow and Farm Hill. Members will also review the five-year plan for capital projects.

• Kaplan Drive (Lawrence School) land swap discussion
• Beman Middle School construction project status update
• Snow and Farm Hill roofing project updates
• Five-Year Plan for Capital Projects for 2021/2022 discussion
• Macdonough Feasibility Study update

The committee discussed a potential land swap with developer Mark Kozikowski involving land near Kaplan Drive, with concerns raised about buffers, housing density, zoning, and wetlands. They also received updates on the Macdonough feasibility study, Beman Middle School construction, and roof projects at Farm Hill and Snow schools. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only action was approving the September 15, 2020 meeting minutes.

• Approved September 15, 2020 meeting minutes as presented
• Discussed Kaplan Drive land swap with Mark Kozikowski (no action)
• Received update on Macdonough feasibility study (no action)
• Reviewed status of Beman Middle School construction (no action)
• Noted state approval for Farm Hill roof project, bid may proceed (no action)
• Discussed 5-year capital plan and staffing vacancies (no action)

Riverfront Boathouse Building Committee

The regular meeting of the Riverfront Boathouse Building Committee scheduled for October 20, 2021, has been cancelled.

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission will meet to approve the October 20 agenda and September 15 meeting minutes. The commission will also hold a discussion regarding next steps for the body and review 2021 attendance.

• Discussion regarding next steps for the Human Relations Commission
• Review of 2021 attendance

The October 20, 2021 meeting of the Human Relations Commission was cancelled because no quorum was present. No agenda, minutes, or business items were approved or discussed. The next meeting is scheduled for November 17, 2021 as a hybrid in-person/WebEx meeting.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of quorum
• Agenda not approved due to lack of quorum
• Minutes of September 15, 2021 not approved due to lack of quorum

LGBTQIA+ Commission

The commission will discuss updates on community initiatives, including the Halloween Candy Car Cruise and Transgender Visibility Week. The meeting also includes planning for Middletown Pride 2022 and an art installation at Grand and Main Street.

• Halloween Candy Car Cruise update
• Transgender Visibility Week in November
• LGBTQIA Holiday Celebration/Food Drive
• Grand and Main Street Art Installation
• Middletown Pride 2022 planning

The LGBTQIA+ Commission approved the September 21, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously. They discussed and planned several upcoming events, including a Halloween Candy Car Cruise, a Queer Youth Halloween Party, a Transgender Visibility Week, and a holiday food drive. They also agreed to order 18x24 inch Pride lawn signs from Vistaprint for $7.50 each.

• Approved September 21, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to order 18x24 inch Pride lawn signs at $7.50 each from Vistaprint
• Discussed plans for Halloween Candy Car Cruise, Queer Youth Halloween Party, Transgender Visibility Week, and holiday food drive
• Noted Arts Commission approved LGBTQIA+ artist takeover of City Hall for May-June 2022

Russell Library Board of Trustees

The board will review various committee reports and approve minutes from the September 21, 2021 meeting. Discussion topics include trustee EDI training and a climate survey.

• Approval of September 21, 2021, meeting minutes
• Trustee EDI training update
• Climate Survey discussion
• Executive session regarding strategy, personnel, contracts, and property

The Russell Library Board of Trustees approved the Progressive Discipline Policy and revised Meeting Guidelines, with the latter amended to allow the chair to speak in debate. The board also approved the September 2021 meeting minutes, with one abstention, and discussed the completed facilities assessment, which suggests a new library building may be needed.

• Approved Progressive Discipline Policy (unanimous)
• Approved revised Meeting Guidelines with amendment allowing chair to speak in debate (6-2-1)
• Approved minutes of September 2021 meeting (all in favor, Harris abstaining)
• Entered and exited executive session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:13 p.m. (unanimous)

Arts Commission

The Grants Review Panel and MCA Commissioners will meet via WebEx to discuss grant amount recommendations for several applicants. The session focuses on reviewing proposed funding amounts for various individuals and organizations.

• Grant amount recommendations for Oddfellows Playhouse
• Grant amount recommendations for Tre Davis
• Grant amount recommendations for Every Note Counts
• Grant amount recommendations for ARTFARM
• Grant amount recommendations for CT Storytelling Center

The Middletown Arts Commission held a special meeting to review and approve grant recommendations. The commission approved a total of $27,550 in grants for nine projects, with some applicants receiving less than requested. One applicant, Joe Fonda, withdrew his application and will reapply in the next session.

• Approved $2,500 grant to Oddfellows Playhouse Jr. Rep Production (unanimous)
• Approved $1,500 grant to Trevor Davis III for Middletown on the Map (requested $3,000)
• Approved $7,800 grant to Karen Hogg for Kids Count 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved $4,000 grant to Artists for World Peace Wendy Black Nasta for Buckets of Love (unanimous)
• Approved $2,000 grant to CT Storytelling Center Ann Shapiro for Littlest Listeners (unanimous)
• Approved $4,000 grant to Artfarm Marcella Trowbridge for Middle East-Middletown (requested $7,999)
• Approved $5,000 grant to P.Obec & J.Barton for Remington Rand, A History & Redemption (requested $7,999)
• Approved $750 grant to Liva Cox for A Window into Middletown (unanimous)

Firing Range Building Committee

The regular meeting of the Firing Range Building Committee scheduled for October 19, 2021, was cancelled. The committee is addressing design concerns regarding lead safety with the FBI and working with the City Health Department regarding OSHA compliance.

• Cancellation of the October 19, 2021, regular meeting
• Work with the FBI on design concerns regarding lead safety
• Coordination with the City Health Department regarding OSHA compliance for potential lead exposure

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education Policy Committee will hold a virtual meeting to address several policy changes. The agenda includes deleting, replacing, or revising various student and administrative policies.

• Deletion of policies regarding Student Personnel, Admissions, Bus Conduct, and Student Driving/Parking
• Replacement of policies for Homeless Students, Reporting to Parents, and Chemical Health Policy for Athletics
• Revision of the Gender Identity and Expression policy
• Replacement of policies for Administering Medications and Use of AEDs
• Review or replacement of Dress and Grooming policy

Area Transit District

The Special Estuary Transit District Expansion Transition Committee is meeting to discuss a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and receive a CT DOT progress update. The agenda also includes discussions regarding implementation plans, communications plans, and a funding resolution.

• MOA discussion
• CT DOT Progress Update Report
• Review of Bylaws and Board Policies
• Implementation Plan and Communications Plan reviews
• Funding Resolution

Lower Connecticut River Valley

This meeting consists of procedural items, including the approval of minutes from recent meetings. The committee will also discuss items for the legislative agenda and potential new members.

• Approval of September 14, 2021 meeting minutes
• Approval of October 14, 2021 special meeting minutes
• Discussion of items for the legislative agenda
• Consideration of possible new Executive Committee members

Youth Service Bureau Advisory Board

The regular meeting for the Middletown Youth Services Bureau Advisory Board scheduled for October 19, 2021, was canceled. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 16, 2021.

Youth Service Bureau Advisory Board

The meeting includes a continued conversation regarding the role of YSBAB to promote value for MYSB. The board will also review a police and youth report and approve previous meeting notes.

• Approval of all meeting notes
• Discussion on the role of YSBAB to promote value for MYSB
• Police and Youth Report

Commission on Conservation & Agriculture

The Open Space Acquisition Committee is meeting to rank the Atkins Street property. This meeting will be held online via WebEx.

• Ranking of Atkins Street property

The Open Space Acquisition Committee voted unanimously to recommend pursuing an appraisal of a property on the east side of Atkins Street for open space acquisition. The meeting was brief and procedural, with no other substantive decisions made.

• Recommended pursuing appraisal of Atkins Street property (unanimous)

Commission on Conservation & Agriculture

The Commission will review requests for comment regarding potential open space acquisitions at Atkins Street and the Military Road subdivision parcel. Committee reports will also be presented concerning trails, agriculture, and management plans for Wilcox and Guida.

• Potential open space acquisition at Atkins Street
• Military Road subdivision Open Space Parcel
• Bridges at Guida and ATV issue proposal
• Wilcox & Guida Management Plans
• Property updates for Sunshine Realty and Westlake Drive

The Middletown Commission on Conservation & Agriculture held a routine meeting with no substantive public decisions. The agenda was accepted with a modification, and the commission moved into executive session. No public forum, new business, or member forum items were discussed.

• Accepted agenda with modification to move F.6 to executive session (unanimous)
• Moved to executive session inviting M. Kozikowski (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Parking Advisory Committee

The regular scheduled meeting of the Parking Advisory Committee for October 19, 2021, has been cancelled. No other business was listed in the memorandum.

Northern Middlesex County Cable Advisory

The council will review reports from the Comcast General Manager and Public Access staff. Discussion items include access channel usage and a customer service update.

• Comcast General Manager’s Report
• Public Access Report
• Access Channel Usage discussion
• Customer Service Update
• CT Comcast Committee report

The Northern Middlesex County Cable Advisory Council met on October 18, 2021, with no substantive decisions. Members approved no minutes (none from prior month), heard a treasurer's report showing a balance of $28,400.29, and discussed promoting the Justin Hinds' scholarship. The only action was agreeing to hold a December meeting at a restaurant.

• Agreed to hold December meeting at a restaurant

Mattabassett District Board

The Mattabassett District Board will review financial reports, including the budget and treasurer's report. The meeting also includes discussion on reserve capacity and a license agreement for Deming Road Business Park.

• License Agreement Approval for Deming Road Business Park
• Review of FY 21-22 receipts and expenditures
• September 2021 check register report
• Setting 2022 Board meeting dates

The Mattabassett District Board of Directors approved the Deming Road Business Park License Agreement as presented. The board also unanimously approved the September 20, 2021 minutes, Treasurer's Report, Budget Statement, Staff Reports, Engineering Statement, Nominating Statement, and 2022 Board Meeting Dates. A public speaker raised ongoing odor concerns, and directors requested follow-up actions including adding the issue to the next agenda and obtaining related records.

• Approved Deming Road Business Park License Agreement
• Approved September 20, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report (unanimous)
• Accepted Budget Statement (unanimous)
• Accepted Staff Reports (unanimous)
• Accepted Engineering Statement (unanimous)
• Accepted Nominating Statement (unanimous)
• Accepted 2022 Board Meeting Dates (unanimous)

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education met for a special meeting to consider an executive session regarding attorney-client privileged communication about a personnel complaint. The Board also considered possible action regarding its response to that complaint.

• Proposed executive session regarding attorney-client privileged communication relating to a personnel complaint
• Possible action relating to the Board's response to the personnel complaint

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education scheduled a special meeting to consider a proposed executive session. This session involves attorney-client privileged communication related to a personnel complaint.

• Proposed executive session regarding a personnel complaint

Public Safety Commission

The commission will review the Fire Department's monthly report regarding calls, events, and training. The agenda includes updates on the Mass Vaccination Plan, Arrigoni Bridge, and various vehicle replacements. The meeting also covers a summary of actions from the Telecommunications Committee.

• Fire Department monthly report (calls, events, and training)
• Mass Vaccination Plan update
• Arrigoni Bridge update
• Vehicle replacements including New Car 1, New Car 3, and staff vehicles
• Telecommunications Committee summary of action

The commission approved the September minutes and received the fire chief's monthly report. Chief Woron reported EMS changes cut calls by 120-130 per month, and the hospital was asked to reinstate the fire department on medical calls due to Hunters Ambulance issues. Promotions were announced for two battalion chiefs and two lieutenants, and the assistant chief position will be posted. No formal votes were taken on policy items.

• Approved September 20 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Confirmed promotions: Battalion Chiefs Drew France & Keith Clark, Lieutenants Rich Mastroianni & Steven Beeler
• Noted Assistant Chief position to be posted
• Reported four firefighter positions to be filled from active list
• Discussed fire street boxes repair/replacement, cost $10,000 each

Public Safety Commission

The commission will review monthly reports including August incident statistics and overtime balances. The agenda also includes updates on the CT Police Accountability Bill, 646 Main Street, and department hiring.

• Update on CT Police Accountability Bill
• Discussion regarding 646 Main Street
• Review of August incident statistics
• Report on overtime balances
• Hiring update

The Public Safety Commission approved the September 20, 2021 minutes and received updates from Police Chief Erik Costa on body camera implementation, officer hiring, and ongoing investigations. No formal votes were taken on policy changes; the meeting was primarily informational and discussion-based.

• Approved September 20, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:01 PM (unanimous)

Russell Library Board of Trustees

The Russell Library Finance Committee will review minutes from the September 9, 2021, meeting. The committee will also receive an update from Essex Financial Services and continue discussions on Socially Responsible Investing. Members will also address the FY23 budget.

• Approval of September 9, 2021, minutes
• Essex Financial Services update from Bob Marcinek
• Socially Responsible Investing discussion
• FY23 Budget discussion

The Russell Library Finance Committee approved a recommendation from Essex Financial Services to trim underperforming funds and invest in others, reducing equity holdings from 65% to 62%. The committee also discussed socially responsible investing, with plans to continue the discussion and possibly move toward ESG funds. Updates were given on grants for a feasibility study, hotspots for students, and a story walk, and the FY 2023 budget is under internal discussion.

• Approved trimming underperforming funds and investing in others, lowering equity holdings to 62% (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of September 9, 2021 Finance Committee meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:18 p.m. (unanimous)

Code Enforcement Committee

The Code Enforcement Committee will receive updates from various municipal departments, including Public Works, Health, and Police. The agenda also includes reviews of ongoing business regarding several specific addresses.

• Update on 22 North Fowler Avenue
• Review of Wharfside Commons
• Updates on 876 Newfield Street, 159 Boston Road, and 212 Sisk Street
• Discussion regarding 399 DeKoven Drive
• Review of L Mortimer Cemetery and 15 Rapallo Avenue

The Code Enforcement Committee approved referring properties at 212 Sisk Street and 20 White Road to the Office of the General Counsel for clean-and-lien procedures and a notice of abatement due to unresolved blight and zoning violations. The committee also approved the minutes from the September 23, 2021 meeting. Other updates included a report of needles near McDonough School's playscape, a graffiti arrest, and ongoing property violation cases with deadlines for roof repairs.

• Approved minutes of September 23, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Referred 212 Sisk Street and 20 White Road to OGC for clean-and-lien procedures and notice of abatement (unanimous)
• Noted no rodent harborage found at 22 Fowler Avenue; continued monitoring
• Noted graffiti suspect arrested; Public Works to coordinate removal
• Set October 20 deadline for roof repairs at 159 Boston Road and 520 East Main Street
• Continued monitoring of 399 deKoven Drive, 52 North Main Street, and Mortimer Cemetery

Common Council

This special Common Council meeting consists of procedural items and an opportunity for public comment. No substantive legislative actions or decisions are listed on the agenda.

The Common Council held a special community meeting to hear public comments, with no formal decisions or votes taken. Speakers raised concerns about union representation, police firing range details, park amenities, and housing affordability. The meeting adjourned unanimously.

• Adjourned meeting unanimously (11-0, 1 absent)

Common Council

The Common Council is reviewing several appropriations from the American Rescue Plan Grant for water and sewer infrastructure improvements. These include projects for sanitary sewer mains and potable water lines on Oakridge Roadway, Glenwood Area Streets, and Saybrook Road. The council will also consider an energy services agreement and a fire department appointment.

• $750,000 appropriation for sanitary sewer mains replacement/rehabilitation
• $750,000 appropriation for sanitary sewer mains in Basin #25, 26, and 27
• $750,000 appropriation for potable water infrastructure on Oakridge Roadway and Glenwood Area Streets
• $500,000 appropriation for Saybrook Road water main improvements
• 20-year Energy Services Agreement with Symbiont Energy LLC

The Common Council unanimously approved four resolutions appropriating a total of $2.75 million from the American Rescue Plan grant for water and sewer infrastructure projects, including sewer main replacement, inflow/infiltration reduction, potable water improvements, and a Saybrook Road water main replacement. The council also approved the appointment of David Albert as Deputy Fire Chief and moved a proposed energy services agreement to the November 1 agenda.

• Approved $750,000 for sewer main replacement in coordination with Public Works Road Bond Project (11-0)
• Approved $750,000 for inflow/infiltration reduction in Basins #25-27 (11-0)
• Approved $750,000 for potable water infrastructure on Oakridge and Glenwood Area Streets (11-0)
• Approved $500,000 for Saybrook Road water main replacement (11-0)
• Approved appointment of David Albert as Deputy Fire Chief, Salary Grade 17, Step 6 ($62.07/hr) (11-0)
• Moved 20-year Energy Services Agreement with Symbiont Energy LLC to November 1, 2021 agenda (11-0)
• Approved appointment of Benjamin Schimelman as Housing Citation Hearing Officer (11-0)

Public Works & Facilities Commission

The commission will discuss updates on several municipal projects, including the Recreation Center and Harbor Park Boardwalk. The meeting also includes reviews of September 2021 monthly reports for the Highway and Parks divisions.

• Updates on Food Waste Program, Recreation Center, and Harbor Park Boardwalk
• Update on Old Road Drive transition from private to public
• Review of September 2021 Public Works Overtime Report
• Review of September 2021 Building Permits

The Public Works & Facilities Commission approved three training/conference items: T2 Sustainable Winter Operations Training, EBC Solid Waste Webinar, and National Zero Waste Virtual Conference, all unanimously. They also received updates on food waste diversion (nearly 50,000 pounds diverted since July), the Recreation Center rehabilitation (roof added to project, budget limited to $1.5M), Veterans Pool and Splash Pad (design submittal expected by end of October), and Harbor Park Boardwalk (wall resurfacing started, restrooms to be bid in November). No items were denied or tabled.

• Approved T2 Sustainable Winter Operations Training (unanimous)
• Approved EBC Solid Waste Webinar (unanimous)
• Approved National Zero Waste Virtual Conference (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from September 8, 2021 (unanimous)

Mary Shepherd Home Citizens' Advisory Committee

The Mary Shepherd Home Citizens' Advisory Committee agenda for October 13, 2021, includes discussions regarding occupancy issues, transit transportation, Middlesex Health, and building issues.

• Occupancy issues
• Transit Transportation
• Middlesex Health
• Building issues

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Commission will hold public hearings regarding a re-subdivision at 88 Preston Avenue and a site plan review for Wesleyan University. The agenda also includes discussions on activity at Country Club Road and updates on postponed zoning items.

• Re-subdivision of 5.23 acres at 88 Preston Avenue into two lots
• Site plan review for a new science building and renovations at 265 Church St
• Discussion regarding activity at Map-Lot 03-0229 Country Club Road
• Postponed request for a 16-lot subdivision on Military Road
• Postponed zoning amendment for properties on Long Hill Road

The Middletown Planning and Zoning Commission approved a re-subdivision at 88 Preston Avenue, creating two lots from a 5.23-acre property in the R-60 zone, with a new single-family house, driveway, septic system, well, and drainage. The commission also scheduled a public hearing for October 27, 2021, on Wesleyan University's proposed science building and Shanklin Building renovations. Two agenda items were postponed: a 16-lot subdivision on Military Road (to November 10) and a zoning map amendment for Long Hill Road properties (to October 27). The meeting was held virtually.

• Approved re-subdivision at 88 Preston Avenue (7-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Wesleyan University site plan review on October 27, 2021 (7-0)
• Postponed Military Road subdivision request to November 10, 2021
• Postponed Long Hill Road zoning map amendment to October 27, 2021
• Approved minutes of September 22, 2021 meeting (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved hybrid format for October 27 and future meetings (7-0)
• Tabled discussion on holding a planning workshop (6-0, 1 abstention)

American Rescue Plan Task Force

The American Rescue Plan Act Task Force is holding a special meeting to elect a Chair and Vice Chair. The group will also consider using ARPA funds for water and sewer needs and establish a schedule of future meeting dates.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Consideration of ARPA Funds for Water and Sewer Needs
• Schedule of Meeting Dates

The American Rescue Plan Task Force unanimously recommended that the Common Council approve a $2.75M supplemental appropriation from ARPA funds for immediate water and sewer needs, covering repairs to three basins and a water main. The task force also elected Mayor Ben Florsheim as chair and Pamela Steele as vice chair, set meeting dates for November 10 and December 8, and voted to make those meetings hybrid and ratify prior votes.

• Elected Mayor Ben Florsheim as chair (unanimous)
• Elected Pamela Steele as vice chair (unanimous)
• Recommended $2.75M ARPA appropriation for water and sewer repairs (unanimous)
• Set meeting dates for Nov 10 and Dec 8 at 11:00 a.m. in Room 208 (unanimous)
• Ratified prior task force votes (unanimous)
• Approved hybrid format for upcoming meetings (unanimous)

Arts Commission

The Music Sub-Committee of the Middletown Commission on the Arts has cancelled its scheduled meeting for October 13 at 7 p.m. The cancellation is due to an emergency.

• Cancellation of the October 13 Music Sub-Committee meeting

Arts Commission

This agenda announces the cancellation of the special meeting of the Middletown Commission on the Arts originally scheduled for October 13 at 6 p.m. The cancellation is due to an emergency that arose that day. No business items are listed for discussion or decision.

• Cancellation of special meeting scheduled for October 13 at 6 p.m.

Arts Commission

The subcommittee will discuss the impact of the pandemic on music in Middletown. The meeting also includes discussions regarding Music Ambassador choices and the Commission's 50th anniversary.

• Discussion of pandemic influences on music in Middletown
• Music Ambassador choices
• Commission's 50th Anniversary planning

Arts Commission

The Grants Review Panel and Arts Commissioners will meet via WebEx to discuss grant amount recommendations for several applicants. This special meeting focuses on reviewing funding amounts for various arts organizations and individuals.

• Grant recommendations for Oddfellows Playhouse
• Grant recommendations for Tre Davis
• Grant recommendations for Every Note Counts
• Grant recommendations for ARTFARM
• Grant recommendations for CT Storytelling Center

Insurance & Claims

The Insurance & Claims Committee will meet to review reports on closed insurance claims. The meeting includes a presentation regarding a claim for repairs at Palmer Field.

• Approval of August 2021 meeting minutes
• Report on claims closed within the General Counsel’s settlement authority and CIRMA
• Presentation of a claim for Palmer Field repairs

The Insurance and Claims Committee approved three invoices totaling $23,422 for flood repairs at Palmer Field, with payments to Dura Edge and Torrison Stone. The minutes from August 2021 were also approved unanimously. No public members attended the virtual session.

• Approved August 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $8,736.00 invoice to Dura Edge for Palmer Field repairs (unanimous)
• Approved $8,736.00 invoice to Dura Edge for Palmer Field repairs (unanimous)
• Approved $5,950.00 invoice to Torrison Stone for Palmer Field repairs (unanimous)

Design Review & Preservation Board, Middletown

The Design Review & Preservation Board meeting scheduled for October 13, 2021, was canceled due to a lack of business.

Board of Health

The Middletown Board of Health will not hold its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, October 12, 2021. The provided agenda contains only the cancellation notice.

Board of Health

This meeting consists of procedural items including the approval of minutes from June 8, 2021. Departmental reports from Kevin Elak and Jennifer Sparks are also scheduled.

• Approval of June 8, 2021 minutes
• Director Report by Kevin Elak
• Division Report by Jennifer Sparks

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education is meeting to discuss various district updates and administrative reports. The agenda includes a large number of proposed changes, replacements, and deletions to district policies. The board will also review financial reports and updates regarding Beman Middle School and Middletown High School.

• Review and adoption of multiple district policies including Social Media and Bullying Prevention
• Grants Status Report and Title I, II, and III Executive Summary
• Special Education Audit report
• Financial Report action on Line Item Transfer Report
• Updates regarding Beman Middle School and Middletown High School

Area Transit District

The Special Estuary Transit District Expansion Transition Committee will discuss a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). The committee will also hold an executive session regarding contract negotiations with the CT DOT. Agenda items include reviews of bylaws, workplans, and a communications plan.

• MOA discussion
• CT DOT contract negotiations
• Bylaws and board policies review
• Committee workplan and implementation plan updates
• Communications plan discussion

Economic Development Commission

The regular meeting of the Middletown Economic Development Committee scheduled for October 12, 2021, was cancelled. The notice was issued by Joseph Samolis, Director of Planning, Conservation and Development.

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission is hosting a Riverfront Visioning Workshop. This session is part of beginning a master plan for the future development of Middletown’s waterfront.

• Riverfront Visioning Workshop

Housing Authority

The Middletown Housing Authority will review various agency reports and approve previous meeting minutes. The agenda also includes discussions regarding the Federal Flat Rent Schedule and Resolution 2021-7.

• Moving to Work – Resolution 2021-7
• Federal Flat Rent Schedule

The Middletown Housing Authority unanimously adopted Resolution 2021-7, authorizing the submission of an application to HUD for the Moving to Work (MTW) demonstration program under Cohort #4. The resolution also authorizes the Executive Director to sign all required paperwork and finalize negotiations with HUD. No public comments were received during the informational sessions and public hearing held on the matter.

• Adopted Resolution 2021-7 to apply for MTW status (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 13, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved bills as submitted (unanimous)

Anti-Racism Task Force

The Anti-Racism Task Force has canceled its special meeting scheduled for October 12, 2021. The meeting has been rescheduled for Monday, October 25, 2021, at 6:00pm.

• Cancellation of the October 12, 2021, special meeting
• Rescheduled meeting set for October 25, 2021

Anti-Racism Task Force

The regular October 11, 2021, meeting of the Middletown Anti-racism Task Force is canceled due to a public holiday. A special meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday, October 12, 2021, at 6:00pm.

• Rescheduling of the regular meeting to a special meeting on October 12, 2021

Technology Advisory Committee

The Technology Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, October 7, 2021, has been cancelled. The provided text is a cancellation notice rather than an agenda of items.

Technology Advisory Committee

The Technology Advisory Committee will discuss building access updates for the Green St. building. The meeting also includes an executive session regarding security strategy.

• Executive Session regarding security strategy
• Update on Green St. Building access

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a variance request for 1200 Washington Street. The application seeks to locate a "tiny home" trailer containing a housekeeping unit on the property. The board will also consider approving minutes from the May 6, 2021 meeting.

• Variance request for a "tiny home" trailer at 1200 Washington Street
• Approval of May 6, 2021 meeting minutes

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance request (V2021-8) from Robyne Camp to place a temporary 'tiny home' trailer with a housekeeping unit on the 200+ acre property at 1200 Washington Street. The trailer will be parked in the woods, not visible from neighbors, and used for a caretaker for a few years. The board also approved the May 6, 2021 minutes and adjourned, all by 4-0 votes.

• Approved variance for temporary tiny home trailer at 1200 Washington St (4-0)
• Approved minutes of May 6, 2021 meeting (4-0)
• Closed public hearing for variance request (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:05 pm (4-0)

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education Curriculum Committee meets virtually on October 7, 2021. The agenda includes an Advanced Culinary Course item, the approval of an African American / Latino History Course, and a presentation regarding a Special Education Audit.

• Approval of African American / Latino History Course
• Advanced Culinary Course
• Presentation of Special Education Audit

Water Pollution Control Authority

The WPCA will review monthly fund balance, collection, and consumption reports. The meeting also includes updates on the Mattabassett Pump Station, John S. Roth Plant/Wellfield, and Pameacha projects.

• Goodwill adjustment for Sarpu at 41 Lisa Lane
• Mattabassett Pump Station Project update
• John S. Roth Plant/Wellfield update
• Pameacha Project update
• Review of monthly fund balance and delinquent reports

The Water Pollution Control Authority approved a good will adjustment of $3,175.58 for 41 Lisa Lane. The board also approved the September 2, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously, with one abstention. Staff reported on infrastructure projects, including fixing two cross connections and progress on the Durham Water and Pameacha projects.

• Approved good will adjustment for 41 Lisa Lane in amount of $3,175.58
• Approved minutes of September 2, 2021 regular meeting (unanimous, Bishel abstained)

Russell Library Board of Trustees

The Governance Committee will review the Community Dialogue Framework. The committee will also address the Progressive and Corrective Discipline Policy.

• Review of Community Dialogue Framework
• Progressive and Corrective Discipline Policy
• Distribution of Annual Trustee Agreements
• Meeting guidelines consideration

The Russell Library Board of Trustees Governance Committee approved the Progressive and Corrective Discipline Policy and forwarded it to the full Board. They also approved changes to meeting guidelines, including allowing members to remain seated and speak informally, and will send these to the Board for adoption. The committee discussed virtual meeting etiquette and annual trustee agreements but took no final action on those items.

• Approved minutes from June 2, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Progressive and Corrective Discipline Policy and forwarded to Board of Trustees (unanimous)
• Approved meeting guideline changes (provisions 1,3,4,6,7) and advanced to full Board (unanimous)

Clean Energy Taskforce

The taskforce will review updates on municipal electric vehicle readiness and the city vehicle fleet conversion. The agenda includes reports on various building committee projects and CHEER program results. Members will also discuss home energy labeling opportunities and West Hartford's clean energy commitment.

• Municipal EV Readiness Program and city vehicle fleet conversion updates
• Building committee updates for Macdonough, Boathouse, and School Roofs
• CHEER fundraiser results and budget vote
• PURA EV infrastructure program discussion
• Review of West Hartford’s 100% clean energy commitment

Arts Commission

The Middletown Commission on the Arts is conducting interviews for PSG Grants. The grants review panel will meet with four applicants to discuss their proposals.

• Interview: Oddfellows Playhouse, Dic Wheeler
• Interview: Tre Davis
• Interview: Every Note Counts, Karen Hogg
• Interview: ARTFARM, Marcella Trowbridge

The Middletown Commission on the Arts interviewed four applicants for PSG grants: Oddfellows Playhouse, Tre Davis, Every Note Counts, and ARTFARM. The panel discussed grant amount recommendations to present to the full commission at a special meeting. No final decisions were made; the meeting was procedural.

• Interviewed Oddfellows Playhouse, Tre Davis, Every Note Counts, and ARTFARM for PSG grants.
• Discussed grant amount recommendations for the full commission's next special meeting.
• Adjourned at 7:15 p.m.

Inland / Wetlands & Water Courses Agency

The agency will hold a public hearing regarding the construction of a road and five single-family homes on Nathan Hale Road. The board will also review a proposed 15ft x 48ft addition to a home at 274 Sand Hill Road. A notice concerning a cell tower at 499 Mile Lane is included in communications.

• Public hearing for road and five single-family homes on Nathan Hale Road (lots 12-0106, 12-0110, 12-0193, 12-0194, and 12-0195)
• Review of a 15ft x 48ft addition at 274 Sand Hill Road
• Notice regarding a cell tower at 499 Mile Lane

Inland / Wetlands & Water Courses Agency

The agency will hold a public hearing regarding the construction of a road and five single-family homes on Nathan Hale Road. The meeting also includes reviews for George Street culvert repairs and a home addition on Sand Hill Road.

• Construction of a road and five single-family homes on Nathan Hale Road
• Culvert and roadway repair on George Street near Middlefield Street
• Home addition at 274 Sand Hill Road
• Notice regarding cell tower at 499 Mile Lane

The Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Agency continued the public hearing for a proposed road and five single-family homes on Nathan Hale Road to November 3, 2021, after the applicant submitted a 35-day extension. The agency also accepted a new application from the City of Middletown to repair a culvert on George Street and set a public hearing for the same date. A proposed addition at 274 Sand Hill Road was left under agency review, with staff authorized to issue a wetland agent approval.

• Continued public hearing for Nathan Hale Road subdivision to Nov. 3, 2021 (unanimous)
• Accepted culvert repair application for George Street and set public hearing for Nov. 3 (unanimous)
• Left 274 Sand Hill Road addition under agency review, allowed staff wetland agent approval (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Sept. 1 and Sept. 11, 2021 meetings (unanimous)

Russell Library Board of Trustees

The committee will discuss the library's COVID-19 response, facilities assessment, and operations plan. The agenda also includes approving September 7, 2021, minutes and moving into an executive session for legal and personnel matters.

• Approval of September 7, 2021, meeting minutes
• Discussion of COVID-19 response and operations plan
• Review of facilities assessment
• Update on LION-LCI migration status
• Motion for executive session regarding legal, personnel, and real estate matters

The Executive Committee approved the minutes from the September 7, 2021 meeting. The board discussed COVID-19 response, including plans for in-person activities, and reviewed progress on the facilities assessment, operational plan, and LION-LCI migration. No formal decisions were made on these items; they were only reported and discussed.

• Approved the minutes of the September 7, 2021 meeting unanimously.
• Entered executive session at 5:33 p.m. and exited at 5:53 p.m. unanimously.
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:53 p.m. unanimously.

Arts Commission

The Middletown Commission on the Arts will hold interviews for PSG grants. The meeting includes scheduled sessions with various organizations and individual artists.

• Interview: CT Storytelling Center
• Interview: Artists For World Peace
• Interview: Peter Oberc and John Barton
• Interview: Livia Cox

The commission interviewed four applicants for PSG grants and discussed grant amount recommendations to present at a future special meeting. No final decisions were made at this meeting.

• Interviewed CT Storytelling Center, Artists For World Peace, Peter Oberc and John Barton, and Livia Cox
• Discussed grant amount recommendations for full commission consideration

Arts Commission

The Middletown Commission on the Arts is conducting interviews for PSG grants. The meeting includes scheduled sessions with several applicants.

• Interview: CT Storytelling Center
• Interview: Artists For World Peace
• Interview: Peter Oberc and John Barton
• Interview: Livia Cox

Insurance & Claims

The Insurance & Claims Committee will review reports on claims closed within the General Counsel's settlement authority and CIRMA. The meeting also includes presentations regarding claims for Palmer Field repairs and light pole repairs.

• Report on claims closed within the General Counsel's settlement authority and CIRMA
• Claim presentation for Palmer Field repairs
• Claim presentation for light pole repair

The regular meeting of the Insurance and Claims Committee scheduled for October 5, 2021, did not take place because a quorum was not present. No discussion or decisions occurred, and the meeting was not started.

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education Budget Committee will meet virtually on October 4, 2021. The agenda includes reviewing meeting minutes, line item transfers, a finance report, and personnel status updates.

• Review of September 13 meeting minutes
• Line item transfers
• Finance report
• Personnel/staffing status updates

Common Council

This special meeting is a workshop dedicated to asking questions to department directors. The agenda contains only procedural steps and does not list specific topics or projects.

Common Council

The Common Council will review several appropriation requests and grant confirmations for various city departments. The agenda includes a proposal to purchase land on Westlake Drive and East Street for public recreation. Members will also discuss joining the Estuary Transit District.

• Purchase of 74.3 acres on Westlake Drive and East Street for open space
• $5,000 CARES Act CDBG funding allocation to 860 Brewing, LLC
• $25,000 grant for police distracted driving enforcement
• Proposal for Middletown to join the Estuary Transit District (ETD)
• $14,945.55 appropriation for Fire Department COVID-19 vaccine clinic costs

Russell Library Board of Trustees

The Russell Library Vision Committee is meeting to receive an overview from HMA2 Architects. The presentation covers the “Russell Library Facilities Assessment and Space Planning Recommendations.”

• Overview of 'Russell Library Facilities Assessment and Space Planning Recommendations' by HMA2 Architects

The Russell Library Board of Trustees held a special Vision Committee meeting to review a facilities assessment by HMA2 Architects. The architects presented four options (A: Repair, B: Renovate, C: Relocate, D: Repurpose), and the committee agreed that options C and D are the most feasible for addressing the library's space needs. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was for discussion and planning.

• Agreed options C (Relocate) and D (Repurpose) are most feasible (informal consensus)
• Reviewed HMA2 facilities assessment and space planning recommendations
• Discussed local and global library inspirations for future planning

Finance & Government Operations Commission

The Finance & Government Operations Commission will consider several resolutions requesting American Rescue Plan funds for water and sewer infrastructure projects. The agenda also includes a proposal to purchase 74.3 acres at Westlake Drive and East Street as city open space. Additionally, the commission will review various grant confirmations and financial reports.

• Resolutions requesting $2.75 million in American Rescue Plan funds for water and sewer infrastructure
• Resolution to purchase 74.3 acres at Westlake Drive and East Street as city open space
• CARES Act CDBG funding of $5,000 for 860 Brewing LLC
• Fire appropriation request of $14,945.55 for the FY 20/21 Fill-Ins line
• Grant confirmations for police, health, and school readiness programs

The Finance & Government Operations Commission unanimously approved multiple appropriations and resolutions, including $2.75 million in American Rescue Plan funds for water and sewer infrastructure projects, a $14,945.55 fire department appropriation, and several grant confirmations. All items were approved unanimously with no public comments or substantive discussion.

• Approved $14,945.55 fire department appropriation (unanimous)
• Approved $750,000 ARP funds for sanitary sewer infrastructure (unanimous)
• Approved $750,000 ARP funds for portable water infrastructure (unanimous)
• Approved $750,000 ARP funds for sanitary sewer projects in problem areas (unanimous)
• Approved $500,000 ARP funds for water main improvement (unanimous)
• Approved $40,000 recreation grant via line transfer (unanimous)
• Approved $1,781,059 school readiness grant (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 74.3 acres at Westlake Drive and East Street for open space (unanimous)

Mattabassett District Board

The Mattabassett District Engineering Committee will meet to review the status of several infrastructure projects. The committee will discuss change orders for the Energy Performance Project and Primary Tunnel Tank Project, as well as a draft NPDES permit from CT DEEP.

• Energy Performance Project status update and change order review
• Primary Tunnel Tank Project status update and change order review
• Status update on the CT DEEP draft NPDES permit
• Planning for 1-year through 5-year capital item outlooks

The Engineering Committee met and received status updates on the Energy Performance Project, Primary Tunnel Tank Project, and NPDES permit status. The committee reviewed change orders for the Energy Performance Project and Primary Tunnel Tank Project, and discussed the incinerator heat exchanger plenum. The committee rejected the most recent Fuel Cell Project proposal, determining the terms and organizational structure were not in the District's best interest.

• Reviewed change order for Energy Performance Project to correct high humidity in Laboratory
• Reviewed change order for Primary Tunnel Tank Project for additional concrete patching repair work
• Rejected Fuel Cell Project proposal (terms and structure not in District's best interest)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:30 PM (unanimous)

Mattabassett District Board

The Engineering Committee will review status updates and change orders for the Energy Performance Project and Primary Tunnel Tank Project. The meeting also includes discussions regarding a CT DEEP draft permit and fuel cell project contract terms.

• Energy Performance Project status update and change order review
• Primary Tunnel Tank Project status update and change order review
• NPDES Draft permit status update from CT DEEP
• Incinerator Primary Heat Exchanger Plenum discussion
• Fuel Cell Project contract terms discussion

Farm Hill School Roof Building Committee

The Farm Hill School Roof Building Committee meeting scheduled for September 28, 2021, has been canceled. The cancellation is due to a lack of new updates or invoices.

• No items scheduled due to meeting cancellation

Area Transit District

The Special Estuary Transit District Expansion Transition Committee will discuss a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and hold an executive session regarding contract negotiations with the CT DOT. The committee is also scheduled to review bylaws, board policies, and implementation plans.

• MOA discussion
• Executive session for CT DOT contract negotiations
• Review of bylaws and board policies
• Committee workplan and implementation plan updates

Youth Service Bureau Advisory Board

The board will discuss the role of the YSBAB in promoting value for the Middletown Youth Services Bureau. The meeting also includes a police and youth report and the approval of previous meeting notes.

• Discussion on the role of the YSBAB to promote value for MYSB
• Police and Youth Report
• Approval of all meeting notes

Sanitary Disposal District Commission

The regular Sanitation Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, September 28, 2021, has been cancelled.

Resource Recycling Advisory Council

The commission will discuss updates regarding the Swap Shack and recycling center signs. The agenda includes reviews of upcoming fall events, including a paper shred event and a repair café. Members will also discuss a DEEP CCSMM grant opportunity.

• Swap Shack update
• Recycling Center Signs
• HHW event on Oct 9
• Repair Café & Swap on Oct 16
• Paper Shred Event on Oct 23

The Middletown Resource Recycling Advisory Council met and accepted the minutes of the previous meeting. Members discussed a potential glass drop-off program, with a vendor contact offered, and reviewed the Recycling Coordinator's report on food-waste collection, composting workshops, and grant opportunities. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was primarily informational and advisory.

• Accepted minutes from the Sept. 27, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Discussed developing a segregated glass drop-off program, with vendor contact to be provided
• Reviewed Recycling Coordinator's September report and food-waste program updates
• Discussed applying for DEEP grants for unit-based pricing and food-waste initiatives
• Noted plans for Swap Shack interior design and Recycling Center signage improvements

Lower Connecticut River Valley

The Regional Planning Committee will discuss next steps for the Regional Plan, including presentations to Planning & Zoning Commissions. The meeting includes updates on the Regional Housing Plan, Bike/Ped Plan, and ARPA Plan Regional Projects. There is also a scheduled discussion regarding the National Estuarine Research Reserve (CT NERR) DEIS/DMP.

• Regional Plan next steps and land use referrals
• Regional Housing Plan update
• Bike/Ped Plan update
• ARPA Plan Regional Projects update
• National Estuarine Research Reserve (CT NERR) DEIS/DMP discussion

Anti-Racism Task Force

The Anti-Racism Task Force will hold a special meeting to discuss its strategic two-year plan. The group also intends to discuss plans for submitting a CRB recommendation by the December meeting.

• Discussion of strategic two-year plan
• Plans for CRB recommendation submission
• NCCJ Report discussion
• Review of retreat feedback

The Anti-Racism Task Force unanimously approved minutes from four prior meetings. Members decided to draft a public statement addressing an uptick in altercations at Middletown schools, with each member contributing thoughts to be combined. They also discussed a two-year strategic plan and plans to submit Civilian Review Board recommendations by December 2021.

• Approved minutes from July 12, Aug 9, Aug 10, and Sept 13 meetings (unanimous)
• Decided to draft a public statement on school altercations, with members contributing drafts
• Discussed developing a two-year strategic plan with goals and timelines
• Discussed plans to submit Civilian Review Board recommendations by December 2021

Mayor's Safety Committee

The Mayor’s Safety and Health Committee will review emergency plans, hurricane preparedness, and mental health awareness. The committee will also review workers’ compensation injuries and motor vehicle accidents occurring between June 1, 2021, and August 31, 2021.

• Presentation: Emergency Plans and Procedures, Hurricane Preparedness
• Presentation: Mental Health Awareness
• Review of Workers’ Compensation Injuries and Motor Vehicle accidents (June 1 – August 31, 2021)

The Mayor's Safety Committee met via Zoom and approved the minutes from the June 25, 2021 meeting. No training class requests were made. Presentations were given on emergency plans and hurricane preparedness, and on mental health awareness. Workers' compensation injuries and at-fault auto accidents from June to August 2021 were reviewed. The committee agreed to add a formal policy on belligerent or dangerous members of the public to the next meeting's agenda.

• Approved minutes of June 25, 2021 meeting
• Agreed to add policy on belligerent or dangerous public to next agenda

Walter C. Jones Fund

The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate regarding a scheduled meeting. No specific discussion items, proposals, or decisions are listed in the document.

The Walter C. Jones Fund committee approved a $3,418 request from Middletown Recreation and Community Services, transferred $846 to a petty cash account, and rescheduled the October meeting to October 27 at 10:00 a.m. Minutes from June and the agenda were approved. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved $3,418 request from Middletown Recreation and Community Services
• Transferred $846 to Liberty Bank petty cash account to bring balance to $1,000
• Moved October meeting to October 27 at 10:00 a.m.
• Approved September meeting agenda
• Approved June 24, 2021 meeting minutes

Urban Forestry Commission

The Urban Forestry Commission will review reports from the Tree Warden and Public Works. The commission will also discuss a $500 donation from Girl Scout Troop 60439 and a tree study by the Wesleyan Service Project.

• $500 donation from Girl Scout Troop 60439
• Vet’s Park trees letter from Michael Humphreys
• Wesleyan Service Project ecological benefits of trees study
• Updates on fall planting and stump grinding

Code Enforcement Committee

The committee will receive updates from several city departments, including Public Works, Health, and Police. The meeting also includes discussions regarding various properties under old business.

• Illegal dumping at 15 Rapallo Ave
• Property reviews for 876 Newfield Street and 529 Boston Road
• Health Department review of 399 deKoven Drive
• City Fire review of 52 North Main Street
• Police Department report on Mortimer Cemetery

The Code Enforcement Committee met and approved the minutes from the September 9, 2021 meeting. No new business was reported from most departments, but the Police Department noted that a party was identified and ticketed for illegal dumping at 15 Rapallo Ave. Old business updates included ongoing monitoring of properties like 876 Newfield Street and 520 East Main Street, with no major decisions made.

• Approved minutes of September 9, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Noted illegal dumping ticket issued at 15 Rapallo Ave

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Commission will review proposed zoning changes regarding farm wineries and breweries. Agenda items also include a report for improvements at Veteran’s Park and scheduling a hearing for 88 Preston Avenue. A subdivision request for Military Road has been postponed until October 13.

• Zoning text amendment for farm wineries and farm breweries
• GS 8-24 report for pool replacement and splash pad at 200 Walnut Grove Road
• Public hearing scheduling for a subdivision at 88 Preston Avenue
• Adoption of revised Planning and Zoning Commission By-laws
• Discussion on Map-Lot 03-0229 Country Club Road

The Middletown Planning and Zoning Commission approved zoning text amendments to Sections 16, 40, 44, and 61 regarding farm wineries, farm breweries, and farm cideries, closing the public hearing and passing the amendments 7-0. The commission also granted a positive 8-24 report for the Veteran's Park pool replacement and splash pad project, approved revised commission by-laws, and scheduled a public hearing for a re-subdivision at 88 Preston Avenue. A subdivision request for 16 lots on Military Road was postponed to October 13, 2021.

• Approved zoning text amendments for farm wineries, breweries, and cideries (7-0)
• Granted positive 8-24 report for Veteran's Park pool replacement and splash pad project (7-0)
• Approved revised commission by-laws with typographical correction (7-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for re-subdivision at 88 Preston Avenue for October 13, 2021 (7-0)
• Postponed Military Road subdivision request to October 13, 2021
• Approved minutes of August 11, 2021 meeting (5-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved minutes of September 8, 2021 meeting (5-0, 2 abstentions)

Arts Commission

The commission will discuss the upcoming 2022 50th Anniversary and youth initiatives. Members will also review MCA grant reports, applications received by September 15, 2021, and interview schedules.

• Discussion of 2022 50th Anniversary
• Review of MCA grant applications received by 9-15-21
• Grant report discussions
• Review of panel assignments and interview schedules

The Middletown Arts Commission voted unanimously to work with all LGBTQIA groups on an event for the MCA 50th anniversary, and to appoint Michael as liaison with the Middletown Pride group. They also approved $500 to sponsor the Amistad visit, with the Middlesex County Historical Society as fiduciary. The commission approved the minutes and agenda, and discussed grant applications and the resignation of David Bauer from MCA.

• Approved motion to work with all LGBTQIA groups on MCA 50th anniversary event (unanimous)
• Approved Michael as liaison with Middletown Pride group (unanimous)
• Approved $500 sponsorship for Amistad visit, payable to Middlesex County Historical Society
• Approved minutes of September 22, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as written (unanimous)

Arts Commission

The commission will review MCA grant applications received by September 15, 2021. The meeting also includes discussions regarding youth initiatives and the upcoming 50th anniversary in 2022.

• Review of MCA grant applications received by September 15, 2021
• Discussion regarding the 2022 50th Anniversary
• Discussion of youth initiatives
• Approval of July 28, 2021 meeting minutes

Downtown Business District

The meeting includes updates from city and community partners. Committees will provide reports on advertising, promotion, beautification, and grant programs.

• Updates from City Partners including Mayor, Police, and Public Works
• Updates from Community Partners including St. Vincent’s and Wesleyan University
• Committee reports on advertising, promotion, and beautification
• Discussion of matching and event grant programs

The Middletown Downtown Business District Commission approved up to $2,500 for a social media influencer project, with all members in favor. The commission also accepted the September 2021 minutes and the treasurer's report. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted primarily of updates from city and community partners.

• Approved up to $2,500 for Social Media Influencer Project (all in favor)
• Accepted September 2021 minutes (all in favor)
• Accepted treasurer's report (all in favor)

Lower Connecticut River Valley

The LCRVCOG and LCRVMPO will meet to discuss regional planning and transportation updates. The agenda includes reviewing FTA Section 5310 applications and discussing the Regional Housing Plan. Other topics include natural hazard mitigation and recovery project lists.

• Adoption of the draft Regional Plan of Conservation and Development
• Review and prioritization of FTA Section 5310 Applications
• Appointment of Judy Preston as Regional Representative to the Gateway Commission
• Update on the Regional Housing Plan
• DECD / FEMA Recovery Project List review

Board of Assessment Appeals

The Board of Assessment Appeals has scheduled a special meeting for September 22, 2021. The session is dedicated to hearing appeals regarding motor vehicle tax assessments.

• Hear appeals for motor vehicle tax assessment

The Board of Assessment Appeals heard 15 appeals and approved 14, reducing assessed values on vehicles and other property. One appeal was denied unanimously, and one was approved with a 2-1 vote. The board also elected Tami Kapacziewski as Chairwoman and David Boyce as Secretary.

• Approved Leslie Neikrie's horse trailer assessment reduction to $9,500 (unanimous)
• Approved Austin Sheridan's Dodge Sprinter assessment reduction to $35,000 (unanimous)
• Approved Elba Swift's two Plymouth Prowler reductions to $500 each (unanimous)
• Approved Shawn Rockwell's Subaru Legacy reduction to $1,500 (unanimous)
• Approved Kevin Schaefer's Toyota Tacoma reduction to $10,000 (unanimous)
• Approved John Sloan's Toyota Rav4 reduction to $6,100 (2-1)
• Denied Gerald Malloy's Honda Accord appeal, keeping assessment at $8,910 (unanimous)
• Approved Christopher Beckwith's three vehicle reductions to $500 each (unanimous)

LGBTQIA+ Commission

The commission will elect a Chairman Pro Tem and approve July meeting minutes. Members will vote on application deadlines for Pride performers and a collaboration with the Arts Commission. The agenda also includes updates on fall initiatives and planning for Middletown Pride 2022.

• Vote on application dates for Grand Marshals, Emcees, DJs, and Performers
• Vote to add commission members to the Middletown Pride website
• Vote on a collaboration with the Arts Commission for a City Hall event
• Discussion of Halloween Candy Car Cruise and fall initiatives
• Planning for Middletown Pride 2022, including lawn signs and block party areas

The LGBTQIA+ Commission unanimously approved a schedule for 2022 Pride Grand Marshal, Emcee, and Performer applications and decisions. It also recommended partnering with Q+ to create a bi-weekly youth group in Middletown, and approved adding commission members to the Middletown Pride website (if they choose).

• Approved 2022 Pride application dates for Grand Marshals, Emcees, and Performers (unanimous)
• Recommended partnering with Q+ for a bi-weekly youth group (unanimous)
• Approved adding commission members to Middletown Pride website, if they choose (unanimous)
• Approved collaboration with Arts Commission for LGBTQIA+ artist takeover of City Hall (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from July 20, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Elected Commissioner Timmons as Chairperson Pro Tem (unanimous)

Russell Library Board of Trustees

The board will review an administration report regarding facilities assessment and space planning. The meeting also includes motions to approve previous minutes and a revised fiscal holiday calendar.

• Facilities Assessment and Space Planning Recommendations report
• Approval of June 15, 2021, meeting minutes
• Revised Fiscal Holiday Calendar 2021-2022 motion
• Discussion on future meeting formats (virtual/hybrid/in-person)

The Russell Library Board of Trustees heard a facilities assessment report from HMA2 Architects, which presented four options (repair, renovate, relocate, repurpose) and is likely to recommend relocation. The board approved the revised fiscal holiday calendar, closing the library on Sunday, January 2, 2022, to facilitate the consortium migration. Minutes from June 15, 2021 were approved with one correction. The board also discussed future meeting formats, continuing virtual meetings for now.

• Approved minutes of June 15, 2021 meeting with one correction (unanimous)
• Approved Revised Fiscal Holiday Calendar 2021-2022, closing library on Jan 2, 2022 (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to discuss strategy, personnel, contracts, property (unanimous)
• Exited executive session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:46 p.m. (unanimous)

Firing Range Building Committee

The regular meeting of the Firing Range Building Committee scheduled for September 21, 2021, has been cancelled. The committee is reviewing a draft MOA from the FBI regarding $1.5 million in funding and addressing design concerns related to lead safety.

• Cancellation of the September 21, 2021, regular meeting
• Review of a draft MOA from the FBI for $1.5 million in project funding
• Follow-up on design concerns regarding lead safety and OSHA compliance

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education Policy Committee is meeting to review, replace, or delete several school district policies. These updates cover topics including student safety, civil rights, and staff medical protocols.

• Proposed Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness policy for coaches
• Updates to Civil and Legal Rights and Nondiscrimination policies
• Revisions to Bullying, Prevention, and Intervention policy
• Changes to Immunization and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act policies
• Updates to Social Media and Bloodborne Pathogens protocols

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education held a special meeting on September 21, 2021. The agenda focuses on the approval of an Alliance District Grant application.

• Approval of the Alliance District Grant Application

Board of Education

This special meeting consists only of procedural boilerplate. The agenda includes calling the meeting to order, approving minutes from a 5:15 PM meeting, and adjournment.

• No substantive items were listed on this agenda.

Area Transit District

The Special Estuary Transit District Expansion Transition Committee will discuss a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). The committee will also hold an executive session regarding contract negotiations with the CT DOT.

• MOA discussion
• Executive Session for CT DOT contract negotiations
• Review of board policies
• Committee workload review

Youth Service Bureau Advisory Board

The regular meeting of the Middletown Youth Services Bureau Advisory Board scheduled for September 21, 2021, was cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 19, 2021.

Commission on Conservation & Agriculture

The Commission will review requests for comment regarding a proposed land swap at Kaplan Drive and Newfield Street and a donation for 30 Laurel Brook Road. Members will also receive updates on various property acquisitions and management plans for Wilcox and Guida.

• Proposed land swap at Kaplan Drive and Newfield Street
• 30 Laurel Brook Road donation request for comment
• Westlake & East Street acquisition request for comment
• Property updates including Mckiernan, Sunshine Realty, and South Plumb Road
• Presentation on wetland law by Janet Brooks

The Commission unanimously recommended that the City acquire the 74-acre Westlake Drive property for $250,000 in bond funds for open space and passive recreation. It also approved a $125,000 agricultural grant initiative, approved spending from the open space bond for a bridge, and supported a land swap on Kaplan Drive with conditions. The Commission did not object to a donation of 30 Laurel Grove Road but declined to use open space funds for demolition.

• Approved a motion to recommend acquiring the Westlake Drive property for open space
• Approved an expenditure from the open space bond for a 36-inch-wide bridge
• Approved moving forward with a $125,000 agricultural grant program and publicity
• Approved a motion to not object to the donation of 30 Laurel Grove Road, but not to use open space funds for demolition
• Approved a motion to support the Kaplan Drive land swap with conditions
• Approved the agenda with an added item
• Approved entering executive session to discuss open space properties
• Approved adjournment

80 Harbor Drive Renovation Building Committee

The 80 Harbor Drive Renovation Building Committee will meet to nominate a Chair and Vice Chair. The committee will also discuss the overall project scope, the SLR contract, and the project budget.

• Nomination of Chair and Vice Chair
• Discussion of overall project scope
• Review of SLR Contract
• Discussion of project budget
• Establishment of meeting dates and times

Common Council

The Common Council will interview a candidate for Police Chief and consider several resolutions. The agenda includes approving a $1,500,000 federal grant for firing range improvements and establishing an American Rescue Plan Task Force.

• Appointment of Erik Costa as Police Chief
• $1,500,000 FBI grant for firing range mitigation and construction
• Contract with Municipal Valuation Services for revaluation services
• Agreement with the FBI regarding the Dingwall-Horan Joint Firearms Training Facility
• Creation of the American Rescue Plan Task Force via ordinance amendment

Mattabassett District Board

The Mattabassett District Board will vote on the election of several officers, including Chairman and Treasurer. The agenda includes reviews of the August 2021 check register, budget statements, and treasurer's reports. Staff will also present updates on operational profiles, safety, and effluent quality.

• Election of Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, and Deputy Treasurer
• Review of August 2021 Check Register Report
• Presentation of Treasurer's Report for Fiscal Year 21-22
• Committee reports regarding Engineering, Finance, Human Resources, Property Management, and Public Relations

Mattabassett District Board

The Mattabassett District Nominating Committee will meet on September 20, 2021. The agenda includes selecting a slate of officers and members for the Finance Committee. The committee will also review recommended assignments for Engineering, Human Resources, Property Management, and Public Relations.

• Selection of a slate of officers
• Selection of the Finance Committee
• Review of recommended assignments for Engineering, Human Resources, Property Management, and Public Relations

The Mattabassett District Nominating Committee met and unanimously recommended a slate of officers for 2021-2022, including John Dunham as Chairman, David Bauer as Vice Chairman, Mary Marrocco as Secretary, Doug Sienna as Treasurer, and Dale Aldieri as Deputy Treasurer. The committee also unanimously recommended appointments to the Finance Committee and to Engineering, Human Resources, Property Management, and Public Relations committees, and recommended Arthur G. Simonian as Board Clerk. All recommendations are subject to approval by the Board of Directors.

• Recommended John Dunham as Chairman, David Bauer as Vice Chairman, Mary Marrocco as Secretary, Doug Sienna as Treasurer, Dale Aldieri as Deputy Treasurer (unanimous)
• Recommended Finance Committee appointments: James Fallon (Berlin), Dale Aldieri (Middletown), Rick Healey (New Britain), Joe Corlis (Cromwell), with Doug Sienna as Chair (unanimous)
• Recommended Engineering Committee: John Dunham (Chair), Robert Argazzi, Bonnie Anderson, David Bauer, Don Naples (unanimous)
• Recommended Human Resources Committee: Gerald Daley (Chair), James Fallon, Doug Sienna, Joseph Samolis, Tonilynn Collins, Mary Marrocco (unanimous)
• Recommended Property Management Committee: James Fallon (Chair), Bonnie Anderson, Dale Aldieri, Gerald Daley, Katie Breslin (unanimous)
• Recommended Public Relations Committee: Joseph Samolis (Chair), David Bauer, Joe Corlis, John Dunham (unanimous)
• Recommended Arthur G. Simonian as Board Clerk (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 6:41 PM (unanimous)

Public Safety Commission

The Public Safety Commission will review monthly Fire Department reports regarding calls, events, and training. The agenda also includes updates on the Mass Vaccination Plan and the transition to an Acting Chief.

• Update on transition to Acting Chief
• Mass Vaccination Plan update
• Arrigoni Bridge update
• Fire Department monthly reports (calls, events, training)
• Vehicle updates including New Car 1, New Car 3, and Truck 1 repairs

The Middletown Public Safety Commission met on September 20, 2021, and approved the minutes from the August 6 meeting. Chief Jay Woron gave a monthly report covering emergency calls, training, and equipment status, but no substantive policy decisions were made. The commission discussed several ongoing items, including overtime, a new deputy fire chief process, and a potential grant for an aging fire apparatus.

• Approved minutes from August 6, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• No other formal votes or policy decisions were recorded

Public Safety Commission

The commission will review monthly reports including overtime balances and August incident statistics. The agenda also includes an update on the CT Police Accountability Bill and a review of civilian complaints from March through August 2021.

• Update on the CT Police Accountability Bill
• Review of civilian complaints (March–August 2021)
• Discussion regarding 646 Main Street complaint
• Review of August incident statistics report

The Public Safety Commission voted to support a $25,000 distracted driving grant, which will be presented to the Finance and Government and Common Council meetings for confirmation. The commission also approved the minutes from the August 16, 2021 meeting. No public hearings were held, and no other new business was discussed.

• Approved the minutes of the August 16, 2021 meeting.
• Supported the $25,000 distracted driving grant (motion passed).
• Agreed to email future officer accolades to members in advance and reference them during meetings.
• Noted that body cameras are expected to be delivered by July 2022.
• Reported that psychiatric reviews for officers are planned, with 20% targeted by early November.
• Discussed ongoing efforts to address quality-of-life issues at 646 Main Street.
• Reviewed civilian complaints: one exonerated, one pending, one unreviewed.
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:56 PM.

Recreation & Community Services Commission

The Commission will receive updates regarding the Senior and Recreation departments, including the Veteran’s Pool and Recreation Center. The agenda also includes a review of an Agility Energy proposal.

• Agility Energy Proposal
• Senior Department updates
• Recreation Department updates
• Veteran’s Pool update
• Senior and Community Center building updates

The Recreation & Community Services Commission met and discussed the Agility Energy proposal for the new Recreation Center, which would address building needs beyond the $1.5 million bond allocation. The proposal, presented to the Common Council in September, involves a lease financing structure that would appear as a utility cost, equivalent to or less than current electricity and oil costs. No formal action was taken on the proposal during this meeting. The Commission also heard updates on senior programs, summer camp success, and the demolition at Vets Pool.

• Approved May meeting minutes (motion by Blackwell, seconded by Dypa)
• Discussed Agility Energy proposal for Recreation Center (no vote taken)
• Heard update on building construction and O&G work
• Noted plan for community survey with Wesleyan's Quantitative Analysis Center

School Readiness Council

This meeting covers routine procedural items including introductions and the acceptance of minutes. The council will also hear a financial and coordinator's report and legislative updates.

• Acceptance of minutes
• Financial and Coordinator’s Report
• Legislative Updates

Citizens Advisory Committee

The Citizens Advisory Committee will discuss the status of open projects and the 2021 Program Year. The meeting also includes an update on CARES Act grants awarded to-date.

• Approval of July 21, 2021 minutes
• Update on 2021 Program Year
• Status of open projects
• Revised requirement for business grants
• Update on CARES Act Grants awarded to-date

Board of Education

The Facilities Committee will discuss updates regarding the Macdonough Feasibility Study and the Beman Middle School Construction Project. The committee will also receive updates on roofing projects at Snow and Farm Hill.

• Macdonough Feasibility Study update
• Beman Middle School Construction Project status
• Snow and Farm Hill Roofing Projects update
• Review of May 26, 2021 meeting minutes

The Facilities Committee reviewed the status of the Beman Middle School construction project, noting the school opened on schedule but the auditorium completion is delayed due to manufacturing issues with ceiling panels. The Macdonough Elementary School feasibility study remains on hold pending a rescheduled DAS meeting. The committee also received approval to bid the Farm Hill School roofing project for January 2022, while awaiting state approval for the Snow School roof and solar panels. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational and adjourned at 6:02 PM.

• Received update on Beman Middle School construction; auditorium delayed, painting continues through October
• Noted Macdonough feasibility study on hold; DAS meeting cancelled and not rescheduled
• Approved by State of Connecticut to go out to bid for Farm Hill School roofing in January 2022
• Discussed staffing vacancies in Facilities Department (2 custodial, 1 accounting)
• No immediate plans for reuse of vacant Keigwin Middle School beyond intermittent use
• Adjourned meeting at 6:02 PM

Design Review & Preservation Board, Middletown

The Design Review & Preservation Board is meeting to discuss old business regarding the New Science Building and Shanklin Renovation at Wesleyan University. The agenda also includes a review of minutes from the September 8, 2021 meeting.

• New Science Building & Shanklin Renovation (Wesleyan University) at Church St, Lawn Ave, & High St (SPR2021-80)
• Approval of September 8, 2021 minutes

The Design Review and Preservation Board approved the site plan for Wesleyan University's New Science Building and Shanklin Renovation, with the understanding that only the four wood frame buildings and Hall Atwater will be demolished, while the three High Street structures remain. The motion passed unanimously 6-0. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was brief and procedural.

• Approved Wesleyan University site plan SPR2021-80 (6-0)
• Confirmed demolition limited to four wood frame buildings and Hall Atwater

Riverfront Boathouse Building Committee

The regular meeting of the Riverfront Boathouse Building Committee scheduled for September 15, 2021, has been cancelled. No other agenda items were provided.

Human Relations Commission

The commission will host a presentation and question session with Justin Richardson, the Director of Human Resources. The meeting also includes a review of 2021 attendance.

• Presentation and questions for Justin Richardson, Director of Human Resources
• Review of 2021 attendance
• Approval of July 21, 2021 meeting minutes

The Human Relations Commission heard a detailed presentation from Human Resources Director Richardson on the city's hiring and recruitment process, including internal union postings, testing, and the mayor's final hiring discretion. The discussion focused on barriers to workforce diversity, such as limited outreach and minimum qualifications, and noted recent improvements like new testing procedures and a new recruiter position. No formal policy decisions were made; the commission only approved its agenda, the previous meeting's minutes, and a motion to hold the next meeting as a hybrid in-person/WebEx session.

• Approved the September 15, 2021 meeting agenda.
• Approved the July 21, 2021 meeting minutes with two abstentions.
• Approved a motion to hold the October 20, 2021 meeting as a hybrid in-person and WebEx meeting.

Board of Health

The Middletown Board of Health will hold its regularly scheduled meeting on September 14, 2021. The agenda consists of procedural items and departmental reports. No specific new business or public hearings are detailed in the provided text.

• Approval of June 8, 2021 minutes
• Director Report from Kevin Elak
• Division Report from Jennifer Sparks

Farm Hill School Roof Building Committee

The committee will review structural analysis for the Snow School roof and a photovoltaic feasibility report. The meeting also includes updates on state grant status and 'approval to bid' status.

• Review of revised Snow School roof structural analysis
• Review of updated photovoltaic feasibility report
• Update on Snow School state grant status
• Update on Farm Hill state ‘approval to bid’ status
• Review and approval of invoices for payment

Board of Education

The Board of Education will vote on the Middletown 2024 Strategic Operating Plan and several revisions to district policies. The agenda also includes reports on financial status, grants, and summer programming.

• Approval of the Middletown 2024: Elevating Innovation, Creativity, and Equity Strategic Operating Plan
• Establishment of a committee to update the MOU between MPS and MPD regarding data reporting and oversight
• Review and updates to various district policies, including hiring procedures and student data protection
• Status report on ARP ESSER grants

Lower Connecticut River Valley

The RiverCOG Executive Committee will discuss ARPA regional projects and the possible adoption of the Regional Plan of Conservation & Development. The committee will also review and approve minutes from the July 20, 2021, regular meeting.

• Approval of July 20, 2021, meeting minutes
• Discussion on ARPA regional projects
• Possible adoption of the Regional Plan of Conservation & Development

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Committee will receive updates on a $55 million bond and the Arcade Development. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the city's purchase of open space on Westlake Drive and a potential tax stabilization agreement for 545 Main St LLC.

• Update: $55 Million Bond
• Update: Arcade Development
• Small Business Grant: 860 Brewing LLC
• City’s Purchase of Open Space on Westlake Drive
• Tax Stabilization Agreement – 545 Main St LLC

The Economic Development Committee unanimously voted to forward several items to the Common Council, including a tax stabilization agreement for 545 Main Street LLC, a CDBG small business grant for 860 Brewing LLC, and a resolution to purchase 74+ acres of open space on Westlake Drive. It also forwarded a deed request for city-owned property on Washington Street, a lease for Exocetus Autonomous Systems at Keating Park, and authorization to enter a merger agreement between MAT and ETD transit companies. No votes were taken on the $55 million bond update or the Arcade development, which were only discussed.

• Approved forwarding CDBG grant for 860 Brewing LLC to Common Council (unanimous)
• Approved forwarding Westlake Drive open space purchase to Common Council, pending favorable CGS 8-24 review (unanimous)
• Approved forwarding tax stabilization agreement for 545 Main Street LLC to Common Council (unanimous)
• Approved forwarding deed request for Washington Street property to 733 Washington Street LLC, pending favorable CGS 8-24 review (unanimous)
• Approved forwarding Exocetus Autonomous Systems lease at Keating Park to Common Council (unanimous)
• Approved forwarding MAT/ETD consolidation to Common Council for authorization (unanimous)

Board of Education

The Middletown Board of Education Budget Committee will hold a virtual meeting on September 13, 2021. The agenda includes reviews of line item transfers, summer facilities projects, and personnel/staffing status updates.

• Line item transfers
• Summer facilities projects updates
• Personnel/staffing status updates