Middletown public meetings in 2021
46 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a regular meeting on December 20, 2021, covering a range of routine and substantive items. They approved change orders for FJS Associates contracts related to affordable housing studies and senior center mechanical design, authorized a revised lease for an additional room at JFK School, and formed a subcommittee to work on an out-of-school program. The council also acted on sewer line extensions, tax cancellations, and a new liquor license application.
- Authorized revised lease with Newport Community School for one additional room at JFK School for $466/month for six months
- Approved change order to FJS Associates for affordable housing market study update
- Approved change order to FJS Associates for mechanical design of Senior Center
- Formed subcommittee (Flynn, Logan, Turano) to work with Town Administrator on out-of-school program
- Ordered Mykono Pizza Pub's Class BV liquor license application advertised for public hearing on January 18, 2022
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a regular meeting with an executive session covering land acquisition, opioid litigation, personnel, and collective bargaining. In open session, they voted to opt into the proposed opioid litigation settlement, ratified Robert Hanley as Public Works Director, and appointed council members to negotiate with the Police Department. The council also received first readings of ordinances on tax classification and mixed-use development, and discussed a school department deficit and recreational grant applications.
- Voted unanimously to opt into proposed Opioid Litigation settlement
- Ratified appointment of Robert Hanley as Public Works Director
- First reading of ordinance amending tax classification system (owner-occupied vs. non-owner-occupied)
- First reading of ordinance amending mixed-use development zoning (height limit 40 feet)
- Approved grant applications for Linden Park pickleball courts and Paradise Valley Park trails; multipurpose field amenities grant failed
Zoning Board Meeting
The Middletown Zoning Board of Review will hold a regular meeting on November 23, 2021, to consider a series of continued petitions and one new petition. These include requests for special use permits and variances for a hotel, solar array, residential conversions, and other property changes. The board will also handle administrative items such as approving minutes and setting 2022 meeting dates.
- Special use permit for a 23-unit hotel at 42-44 & 56 Wave Avenue (Atlantic Beach Suites II, LLC)
- Variance and special use permit for a ground-mounted solar system at 0 West Main Road (Cenz Corporation/GD Middletown West Main I, LLC)
- Variance to build a clubhouse with a 40'8" clocktower at 425 Mitchell's Lane (Newport National Real Estate, LLC)
- Variance to add an additional dwelling unit at 62 Third Beach Road (Stephen M. Sullivan)
- New petition: variance to extend restaurant entry deck and ADA ramp at 499 East Main Road (Jeff Lipshires/CCE Development)
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council heard a presentation from National Grid on long-term gas supply solutions and received a report on the independent investigation into tax and sewer assessments at 34-38 Warren Avenue. The council also discussed the EFSB process for National Grid's LNG facility at Old Mill Lane and received a resident's communication about flooding on Shore Drive.
- National Grid presented long-term solution update for Aquidneck Island gas supply
- Town opposes permanent operation of Old Mill Lane LNG facility; EFSB hearing Nov 18
- Independent investigation report on 34-38 Warren Avenue tax and sewer assessments received
- Approved pole relocation petitions on Vanicek Avenue, Tuckerman Avenue, and Rosedale Court
- Renewed victualling house licenses for Salty's, Piezonis, Rhode Island Nutrition, Plant City X, Port Pizza
Special Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a special meeting to tour six public schools and review their physical conditions, discussing potential upgrades, housing redevelopment at Oliphant and Berkeley-Peckham schools, and infrastructure needs. No formal decisions were made; the tours were informational, with discussion only.
- Tour of Oliphant School (26 Oliphant Lane) with discussion of 34-unit additional building and 15-17 units in school
- Tour of Berkeley-Peckham School (678 Green End Avenue) with discussion of ~20 housing units and mold issues
- Tour of Joseph H. Gaudet School (1113 Aquidneck Avenue) covering ADA compliance, asbestos tiles, and infrastructure upgrades
- Tour of Aquidneck School (70 Reservoir Road) noting ADA elevator non-compliance, no generator, and inadequate cafeteria
- Tour of Middletown High School (130 Valley Road) and Forest Avenue School (315 Forest Avenue) discussing cafeteria, lab space, and RIDE code compliance
Regular Meeting
The Town Council voted to support extending the MPS Building Committee project commencement date to December 2023. The Council also reviewed a community needs assessment and approved several business licenses and tax cancellations.
- Voted to prepare a letter of support to extend school construction commencement from December 20 and 2023
- Approved a new tattoo license for Secret Beach Tattoo, LLC at 146 Aquidneck Avenue
- Ratified the Teamsters Contract Extension
- Approved several resolutions regarding the cancellation of taxes for certain residents
- Approved a special event permit for the Newport County YMCA 36th Annual Pie Run
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a regular meeting on October 18, 2021, covering executive session actions, public hearings, and routine consent items. Key decisions included adopting two zoning ordinance amendments (one on ground-mounted solar installations, another on farm-promotion accessory uses) and a food services ordinance, all on second reading. The council also ratified a teacher assistant contract, approved a resolution to surplus a police vehicle, and forwarded sewer extension requests for two Aquidneck Avenue properties to the Roads & Utilities Advisory Committee.
- Adopted ordinance amending zoning code for ground-mounted solar photovoltaic installations (second reading)
- Adopted ordinance amending farm-promotion accessory uses, including mobile food establishments (second reading, as amended)
- Ratified Teacher Assistant Contract with Middletown Association of Auxiliary Personnel/NEARI/NEA
- Passed resolution to declare a Police Department vehicle surplus
- Forwarded requests to extend public sewer lines to 861 and 869 Aquidneck Avenue to Roads & Utilities Advisory Committee
Regular Meeting
The Town Council reviewed a recommendation for new public pickleball courts at Linden Park and discussed the Phase I submission for the school building project. The meeting also included the receipt of a teacher assistant contract memorandum and several liquor license renewal applications.
- Proposed pickleball court project estimated at approximately $120,000
- Linden Park southwest corner identified as top preferred site for pickleball courts
- Teacher Assistant Contract memorandum for Middletown Association of Auxiliary Personnel/NEARI/NEA
- Renewal applications for various Class A, B, and D alcoholic beverage licenses
- Transfer of liquor license from MR Ventures, LLC to CCE Development, LLC for 499 East Main Road
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a regular meeting covering routine approvals, a liquor license transfer, and public hearings on zoning changes. The main items were a proposed Atlantic Beach Overlay District ordinance and recommended amendments to mixed-use development rules, both of which involved public comment and discussion. The Council voted to send the mixed-use ordinance back to the Planning Board for further review.
- Liquor license transfer from MR Ventures, LLC to CCE Development, LLC at 499 East Main Road, advertised for public hearing on October 4, 2021
- Mixed-use development zoning amendments (Article 27A) sent back to Planning Board for re-review
- Atlantic Beach Overlay District ordinance (Article 30) public hearing remained open, with discussion on hotel limits and signage
- Public forum comments on safety at Newport Triathlon, with Town Administrator to investigate
- Approval of minutes from September 1 and September 7 meetings, with an amendment to clarify wording
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a public hearing on a proposed zoning amendment to regulate marijuana-related uses, with residents and prevention advocates speaking against allowing cultivation and testing in town. The council also approved special event permits, including a fall festival and a dental program, and handled routine consent items.
- Public hearing on zoning amendment adding Section 727 Marijuana Related Uses; remains open
- Special event permit granted to Rejects Brewing Co. and Diegos, 116–124 Aquidneck Avenue, for Fall Festival on Oct 2, 2021
- Special event permit granted to East Bay Community Action Program for Molar Express at Linden Park, Sept 27-29, 2021, fees waived
- Additional hours of operation license granted to Joe's Kwik Marts, 864 West Main Road
- Executive session held on collective bargaining, potential litigation, land acquisition, and JFK School lease
Special Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a special meeting jointly with the Middletown Public Schools Building Committee to discuss the status of school facility improvements. The main item was an update from the Building Committee, including the requirement to file a Letter of Intent with the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) by September 15, 2021, as the first step in a state process. The discussion covered the timeline for a potential bond referendum, public outreach, and the need to upgrade existing school buildings rather than build new ones. No formal action was taken beyond receiving the communication.
- Discussion of Letter of Intent for Phase I of school building project, due to RIDE by September 15, 2021
- Potential bond question for November 2022 election ballot discussed
- Presentation by Superintendent Rosemarie Kraeger and design team (Colliers Project Leaders, DBVW Architects)
- List of school deficiencies discussed for potential bond funding
- State reimbursement for project expenses mentioned
Regular Meeting
The Town Council held a public hearing regarding an amendment to the zoning code to add regulations for marijuana-related uses. The Council also ratified the NEAM Teachers Association contract and approved a resolution to proclaim Middletown as a Purple Heart Town.
- First reading of ordinance amending Title XV Zoning Code to include Section 727 Marijuana Related Uses
- Ratification of the Teacher Contract (NEAM Teachers Association)
- Resolution proclaiming Middletown as a Purple Heart Town
- Approval of $150.00 from the Council President’s Discretionary fund for NAACP golf tournament tee sign
- Adoption of ordinance amending Police Department Public Safety Private Detail billing rates
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held its regular meeting on August 2, 2021, conducting an executive session on collective bargaining, swearing in a new fire chief, and voting on licenses, ordinances, and grants. The council approved several business licenses, adopted a tax exemption ordinance, and accepted an $80,000 state trail grant with a town match.
- Swearing in of Fire Chief James Peplau
- Approved new victualling house licenses for Domino's Pizza (19 West Main Road) and Joe's Kwik Marts (864 West Main Road)
- Adopted ordinance on second reading for residential property tax exemption (Chapter 34, Section 34.02)
- Received first reading of ordinance amending police private detail billing rates (Chapter 36, Fee Schedule)
- Accepted $80,000 DEM Recreation Trail Grant for Valley Trail Expansion with $20,000 town match
Planning Board Meeting
The Airport Zoning Subcommittee discussed the draft airport overlay zoning ordinance, which the Planning Board referred back to them after a public workshop. They reviewed state legislation giving RIAC eminent domain authority, discussed the town's legal obligation to adopt the ordinance, and agreed to remove private properties from the runway protection zone. The subcommittee will present recommendations at the next Planning Board meeting.
- Discussed establishment of airport overlay zoning district
- Reviewed state legislation granting RIAC eminent domain authority
- Confirmed town is legally obligated to adopt the ordinance
- Agreed to remove private properties from runway protection zone for runways 4 and 16
- No changes to proposed ordinance language
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a regular meeting covering presentations, license approvals, and routine business. Key actions included honoring the Middletown High School baseball team, approving a donation for championship jackets, and granting several liquor, amusement, and special event permits.
- Approved $1,890 donation for Varsity Baseball State Champion Jackets from Council President's Discretionary Fund
- Granted Mission LLC upgrade of alcoholic beverage license from Class BL to Class BV at 58 Aquidneck Avenue
- Approved four special event permits for Sweet Berry Farm weddings and birthday party
- Granted special event permits for AmpSurf events at Sachuest Beach with waived fees
- Approved special event permit for film shoot at 35 Warren Avenue
Planning Board Meeting
The Middletown Planning Board held a regular meeting, voting unanimously to continue several public hearings to future dates, including a proposed 17-room hotel on Aquidneck Avenue and a 5-lot subdivision off Serenity Drive. The board also issued a positive recommendation for a special use permit for deck construction in the Watershed Protection District and recommended releasing subdivision performance security for the Lewis Drive Subdivision.
- Continued public hearing for 17-room hotel at 59 Aquidneck Ave. to Aug. 11
- Continued public hearing for 5-lot subdivision at end of Serenity Drive to Sept. 8
- Positive recommendation for On the Pond, LLC deck permit at 116 Aquidneck Ave. in Watershed Protection District
- Recommended release of performance security for Lewis Drive Subdivision (Plat 125, Lots 947-950)
- Recommended Town Council accept Lewis Drive for town maintenance
Special Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a special meeting on July 6, 2021, to interview seven applicants for the Zoning Board of Review and to conduct regular business. The Council also heard public comments about traffic safety, beach access, and a proposed Atlantic Beach Overlay District ordinance. Appointments to the Zoning Board will be made at the July 19 regular meeting.
- Interviewed 7 Zoning Board applicants: Lawrence Frank, Gregory M. Huet, Stephen Huttler, Judith Rosenthal, Adam Souza, Christopher Sousa, Henry 'Rick' Lombardi
- Approved minutes from April 19, May 3, May 8, May 17, and May 19 meetings
- Granted license renewals: Charming Nail & Spa (957 West Main Road), private detective Stephen Charles Schwarz
- Approved special event permits: MHS Class of 2020 reunion at Third Beach (fees waived), Newport County YMCA Aquatic Camp at Second Beach (contingent on concessionaire approval)
- Held public hearing on Atlantic Beach Overlay District ordinance (second reading), with residents speaking for and against
Special Planning Board Meeting
The Middletown Planning Board held a special site visit to view the property at 55 John Clarke Rd. for a development plan review by Newport Car Vaults. The applicant proposes demolishing an existing office building and constructing an auto storage facility, with waivers from certain design standards. No decisions were made; discussion items will be reviewed at the Technical Review Committee meeting on July 13.
- Development plan review for new commercial building and auto storage at 55 John Clarke Rd., Plat 115, Lot 33
- Request for waivers from design standards in Section 521 of Middletown's Subdivision and Development Regulations
- Demolition of existing office building and construction of auto storage facility
- Potential need for special use permit in Zone 1 of Watershed Protection District
- Discussion of parking, fire department access, and HVAC equipment
*CANCELLED* Zoning Board Meeting
The Middletown Zoning Board meeting scheduled for June 22, 2021, was cancelled. All petitions on the June agenda will be continued to a new meeting on Tuesday, June 29, 2021, at 6:00 PM via Zoom. The notice provides the Zoom link, webinar ID, and phone dial-in instructions for public participation.
- June 22, 2021 Zoning Board meeting cancelled
- All June petitions continued to June 29, 2021 at 6:00 PM
- Meeting to be held via Zoom (Webinar ID: 853 8930 6912)
- Phone access available at (877)-853-5257 or (888)-475-4499
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a regular meeting covering executive session personnel matters, liquor license applications, special event permits, and routine consent items. The Council approved James Peplau as Fire Chief, granted several new liquor licenses, and continued some agenda items to future meetings.
- Approved James Peplau as Fire Chief (Councillor Santos voted no)
- Granted Class BL liquor license to Sprout and Lentil, 796 Aquidneck Avenue, with expanded terrace seating contingent on owner approval
- Denied temporary outdoor alcohol service expansion for Sprout and Lentil
- Granted Class BL liquor license to IHOP, 159 West Main Road
- Granted 8 one-day beer/wine licenses to Norman Bird Sanctuary, 583 Third Beach Road
Special Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a special meeting to continue a public hearing on a proposed ordinance creating an Atlantic Beach Overlay District, which would regulate uses and dimensional requirements in that area. The council received the ordinance on first reading and scheduled a second public hearing for July 6, 2021. The council also voted to authorize a letter supporting state legislation on broadband internet.
- Public hearing continued on ordinance adding Article 30 – Atlantic Beach Overlay District to zoning code
- Discussion included limits on hotel rooms, building height, and use table (e.g., gas stations, professional services)
- Residents spoke on hotel growth and safety concerns
- Voted unanimously to receive ordinance on first reading
- Authorized letter supporting RI General Assembly broadband legislation
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a regular meeting on June 7, 2021, where it adopted the FY2022 budget ordinance and levy resolution after a public hearing. The council also ratified the hiring of an interim fire chief, approved a liquor license application, and increased the cap on Class B liquor licenses. The meeting included an executive session on potential litigation, collective bargaining, and personnel matters.
- Adopted FY2022 budget ordinance with amendments, including $1.35M increase for school capital improvements and $538,580 decrease in education appropriation
- Approved levy resolution setting taxes net of exemptions between $48.4M and $48.9M
- Ratified hiring of Kevin P. Partridge as Interim Fire Chief effective June 10, 2021
- Increased Class B liquor license cap from 39 to 40 for Cardinal Restaurant Corp. (IHOP) at 159 West Main Road
- Received application for new Class BL liquor license for Sprout and Lentil at 796 Aquidneck Avenue
Special Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a special meeting to discuss and potentially vote on the FY2021-2022 budget ordinance and a levy resolution. After extensive discussion on tax rates, department funding, and proposed programs, the council voted unanimously to continue the public hearing and the levy resolution to the June 7, 2021 regular meeting. No final budget decisions were made at this meeting.
- Public hearing on FY2021-2022 budget ordinance (General Fund, Parks and Recreation, Sewer, Refuse and Recycling) continued to June 7
- Levy resolution continued to June 7 regular meeting
- Newport County Mental Health requested $30,000 increase for capital improvements at 65 Valley Road
- Proposed $300,000 for a shared Town-School accounting system
- Proposed $95,000 Outreach Program to address COVID learning loss
Zoning Board Meeting
The Middletown Zoning Board of Review will hold a remote meeting on May 25, 2021, to consider a mix of administrative items, appeals, and petitions. The board will review minutes from April 27, hear three appeals of a Planning Board decision regarding a 7-lot subdivision at 208 Howland Avenue, and continue several cases, including a hotel proposal and a roofing company's special use. New petitions include requests for variances and special use permits for residential additions, restaurant expansions, and alcohol service.
- Special use for A-1 Roofing & Construction to build a 5,200 sq ft office at 990 Aquidneck Avenue
- Three appeals of Planning Board approval for a 7-lot subdivision at 208 Howland Avenue
- Continued case for 23-unit hotel at 42-44 & 56 Wave Avenue
- Special use for alcohol service at IHOP (159 West Main Road) and Sprout and Lentil (796 Aquidneck Avenue)
- Variance for two-family residence at 163 Aquidneck Avenue
Special Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a special meeting to conduct the first advertised public hearing on the proposed FY2022 budget ordinance, which covers the General Fund, Parks and Recreation Fund, Sewer Fund, and Refuse and Recycling Fund. The Town Administrator presented an overview and discussed potential reductions, including a proposed 3.26% tax rate increase and a $50 sewer user fee increase. The Council received the ordinance on first reading and scheduled a second public hearing and potential adoption for May 26, 2021.
- Public hearing on FY2022 budget ordinance (first reading)
- Proposed 3.26% increase to the tax rate
- $50.00 increase for sewer users
- Discussion of combining Public Works and Facilities departments
- Discussion of adding a Building/Zoning Officer position
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a regular meeting on May 17, 2021, reviewing the proposed FY2021-2022 budgets for the General Fund, Parks & Recreation, Sewer, and Refuse & Recycling funds, along with the Capital Improvement Plan. The Council also adopted two zoning ordinance amendments on second reading, one on height and yard modifications and another on Development Plan Review. Several consent items were approved, including minutes and mechanical amusement device license renewals. The meeting included an executive session that was referred to the Rhode Island State Police.
- Adopted ordinance amending Section 704 (Height and Yard Modifications) of the Zoning Code
- Adopted ordinance amending Section 306 (Uses Subject to and Exempt from Development Plan Review)
- Approved renewal of mechanical amusement device licenses for multiple businesses (e.g., Island Cinema, Woodhookers, VFW, Howard Johnson Motor Lodge)
- Withdrew concession bid MIDD-021-004 and related award resolution; new proposal to be considered
- Scheduled public hearings on budget for May 19 and May 26, 2021
Planning Board Meeting
The Middletown Planning Board held a public hearing and granted combined master, preliminary, and final plan approval, along with development plan review, for a mixed-use development at 438 East Main Rd. The project includes 12 residential units and 10,124 sq. ft. of office space in two existing buildings. The board also discussed several new business items, including the Capital Improvement Program, esplanade-style sidewalks, parking minimums, and outdoor lighting revisions.
- Approved Aquidneck Crossing, LLC mixed-use development at 438 East Main Rd. (Plat 113, Lot 3)
- Continued advisory recommendation for Auchincloss special use permit at 233 Third Beach Rd. to June 9, 2021
- Found FY 2022-2026 CIP consistent with Comp Plan, with memo on rooftop screening and cisterns
- Received request to research esplanade-style sidewalk ordinance
- Received request to review parking space minimums/maximums
Special Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a special meeting to review and discuss the proposed Fiscal Year 2021-2022 budgets and Capital Improvement Plan for the General Fund, Parks & Recreation, Sewer, Refuse & Recycling, and School departments. The council heard presentations from department heads and asked questions about specific expenditures, including vehicle purchases, new hires, and infrastructure projects. No final votes on the budgets were taken; the meeting was for review and discussion only.
- Fire Department: discussion of purchasing two pumper trucks, possibly deferring one, and trading in old trucks
- Police Department: purchase of four vehicles (funded from Rescue Wagon Fund), one new permanent hire, summer intern program, and equipment purchases
- Public Works: two new hires, new truck purchase, snow removal overtime, and Green End Avenue trench and fence issues
- Sewer: discussion of rate increase for sewer users, replacement of Marshall Village pump station, and Paradise force main replacement
- School Department: requested 4% budget increase, adding a Guidance Counselor, and council requested info on cuts at 3%, 2%, 1%, or zero increase
Regular Meeting
The Town Council has officially begun the review of the Fiscal Year 2022 Operating Budget. The Council also adopted a schedule for upcoming budget meetings and public hearings through May 2021.
- Commenced review of Fiscal Year 2022 Operating Budget
- Adopted schedule for FY 2022 Budget meetings including public hearings on May 19 and May 26
- Granted liquor license renewal for Foodlove Market at 1037 Aquidneck Avenue
- Granted liquor license for The Beach Bar (formerly Rock Lobster) at 59 Aquidneck Avenue
- Received first reading of ordinances regarding zoning height, yard modifications, and development plan reviews
Special Meeting
At this special meeting, the Middletown Town Council met jointly with the Planning Board to discuss and vote on priorities from the Comprehensive Plan zoning implementation status report and the full-build impact study. The Council voted to receive both communications and approved specific high-priority recommendations related to surface water and groundwater impacts, with one councilor voting against the groundwater motion.
- Voted to move forward on high-priority short-term surface water impact items #1, #3, and #4
- Approved groundwater recommendations #2, moved long-term considerations #4 and #5 to short-term
- Discussed zoning map changes, solar array ordinance, marijuana ordinance, and land use table
- Priorities include Affordable Housing, West Main and Coddington Highway corridors, Atlantic Beach District, Airport Overlay, stormwater, and zoning use table
- Discussed extending waterlines to east side, cisterns, septic inspections, and wastewater management plan
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a regular meeting with an executive session, appointed Christopher M. Logan to fill a vacancy, elected Paul M. Rodrigues as Council President and Thomas P. Welch III as Vice President. They discussed a tiered tax proposal, property tax assessment overview, parking restrictions on Wolcott Avenue, and received the FY2021-2022 budget and school budget.
- Appointed Christopher M. Logan as Town Councillor (term expiring Nov 2022)
- Elected Paul M. Rodrigues as Council President, Thomas P. Welch III as Vice President
- Discussed tiered tax and flat rate tax proposal (forwarded to Town Administrator, Tax Assessor, Solicitor)
- Authorized MOU with Friends of Middletown Public Library for FY2022 bookstore operation
- Voted to open Campground on May 15, 2021
Special Meeting
The Middletown Town Council met in a special session to discuss and vote on a personnel matter concerning the Fire Chief. The council entered executive session, reconvened in open session, sealed the minutes, and adjourned. No other business was conducted.
- Executive session on personnel (Fire Chief)
- Vote to seal executive session minutes
- Meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m.
Special Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a special meeting to address items not completed at the March 15, 2021 meeting. The council accepted the resignation of Council President Robert J. Sylvia, effective immediately, and conducted votes on several financial and administrative matters, including contract extensions, bond refunding, and tax cancellations. The meeting also included an executive session on collective bargaining and a lease, and a public hearing on a liquor license transfer.
- Council President Robert J. Sylvia resigned effective immediately
- Executive session on collective bargaining (MMEA/NEARI) and JFK School lease
- Public hearing on transfer of BT liquor license from Courtyard Marriott to Sonesta Select Newport Middletown
- Resolution to refund 2011 General Obligation Bonds
- Resolution to establish Library Community Garden Special Revenue Fund
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a regular meeting on March 15, 2021, addressing a range of items including executive session actions, license transfers, special event permits, and zoning amendments. Key decisions included ratifying the MMEA/NEARI Local 869 contract, authorizing the JFK School lease, and granting a liquor license transfer to Sonesta Select Newport Middletown. The council also approved several special event permits for outdoor fitness classes and a dental program, and authorized a $5,000 civic appropriation to Sail Newport.
- Ratified MMEA/NEARI Local 869 contract and authorized JFK School lease
- Granted BT liquor license transfer from Courtyard Marriott to Sonesta Select Newport Middletown at 9 Commerce Drive
- Approved special event permits for outdoor yoga at Paradise Valley Park and Pulse Beach Bootcamps at Second Beach (through Memorial Day)
- Authorized $5,000 civic appropriation to Sail Newport from Parks and Recreation Fund
- Advertised zoning ordinance amendment on marijuana-related uses for public hearing
Special Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a special meeting to discuss the location of affordable senior housing at the Berkeley-Peckham School property, project priorities, and how to proceed. Residents raised concerns about traffic, lack of public transportation, impact on the baseball field, and environmental issues. The Council voted to reinstate the Senior Affordable Housing Committee and appointed three council members to it, with the Town Clerk to advertise for public members.
- Discussion of affordable senior housing at Berkeley-Peckham School property
- Residents suggested alternative sites: Kennedy School, Linden School, JFK School
- Voted unanimously to reinstate Senior Affordable Housing Committee
- Appointed Vice President Rodrigues, Councillor Santos, Councillor Turano to committee
- Town Clerk to advertise for public committee members for April meeting
Special Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a special meeting to discuss short-term rentals (STRs) in the town, including proposed new registration fees and enforcement measures. Council President Sylvia proposed a $75 annual fee for owner-occupied STRs and a $300 annual fee for non-owner-occupied units, while Councillor Welch suggested a seasonal enforcement officer. The council heard public comments from residents and STR owners, and the item was previously on the March 1 agenda with no action taken.
- Proposed $75 annual fee for owner-occupied short-term rentals
- Proposed $300 annual fee for non-owner-occupied short-term rentals
- Discussion of hiring a part-time short-term rental enforcement official
- Review of noise and parking call data showing STRs comprise a small percentage of complaints
- Public comments from residents and STROM members on enforcement and fees
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held public hearings and gave first readings to two zoning ordinance amendments: one aligning the definition of building height with state law, and another amending mixed-use development regulations. The council also handled routine consent items, including approving minutes, a memorial tree proposal, and tax cancellations, and continued short-term rental ordinance discussions to a later special meeting.
- First reading of ordinance amending building height definition in Zoning Code Section 400 and adding subsection (E) to Section 704
- First reading of ordinance amending mixed-use development sections 27A04(B), 27A04(C), and 27A07(E)
- Approved transfer of BT liquor license from Courtyard Marriott to Sonesta Select Newport Middletown, public hearing set for March 15, 2021
- Approved disposal of surplus School Department vehicles and equipment
- Approved cancellation of taxes for certain Middletown residents
Special Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a special meeting to discuss property tax methodology, short-term rental data, and several board appointments. They also voted to extend the local state of emergency through March 15, 2021, and decided to hold future regular meetings in the Town Council Chambers. Several agenda items were continued from the February 16 regular meeting.
- Discussed property tax predictability and possible homestead exemption or commercial tax rate for investment properties
- Heard public comments requesting short-term rental registration and tax revenue data; data to be posted with March 9 agenda
- Voted to extend State of Emergency through March 15, 2021 (4-3 vote)
- Reappointed Carmella Murphy to Board of Canvassers (term expiring March 2026)
- Reappointed four members to Roads and Utilities Advisory Committee
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a regular meeting by teleconference, entering executive session to discuss a lease and voting against moving forward with an AT&T proposal. The council then reviewed numerous proposed amendments to its Rules of the Council, voting to forward most to the Town Solicitor for review, though several motions failed. The meeting was conducted under COVID-19 emergency orders, with public access via phone or Zoom.
- Executive session on lease; motion to move forward with AT&T proposal failed unanimously
- Forwarded Rule 2 (quorum), Rule 5 (publication), Rule 10 (abstentions), Rule 12 (motions), Rule 16 (chairperson/president), Rule 19 (amendments), Rule 22 (roll call), Rule 24/25/30 (Town Clerk), Exhibit A/Paragraph 4, and Exhibit C to Town Solicitor
- Forwarded proposed new rules: Concept, Consensus, Notification, Media
- Forwarded Rule 29 (special meetings), Rule 30 (docket history), Rule 33 (zoning/planning interviews), Rule 34 (executive session patdown) to Town Solicitor
- Motions to forward Rule 18 (section-by-section), Rule 7 (president election), Rule 25 (public forum), and Rule 30 (prioritize Planning Board) failed
*CANCELLED* Feb. 3, 2021 - Special Meeting
This special Town Council meeting scheduled for February 3, 2021, has been cancelled. All agenda items were originally scheduled for the February 1, 2021 meeting, and this meeting was intended only to address items not completed then. The agenda includes a presentation on affordable housing, several consent items, a public hearing on a zoning map change, and various council communications.
- Public hearing (second reading) to rezone TAP 113 Lot 13 from Office Business Traffic Sensitive (OBA) to Limited Business Traffic Sensitive (LBA)
- Application of Pickles, Inc. for a new Victualling House License at 936 Aquidneck Avenue
- Planning Board recommended amendments to Development Plan Review process (Zoning Ordinance §306)
- Proposed new zoning ordinance Article 27B on Outdoor Lighting
- National Grid-Verizon application to relocate pole P99 on Green End Avenue and eliminate aerial easement at 39 Continental Drive
Zoning Board Meeting
The Middletown Planning Board of Appeals and Zoning Board of Review will hold a joint remote meeting on January 26, 2021, to hear appeals and petitions. The most consequential item is the appeal of the Planning Board's approval of a 7-lot subdivision at 208 Howland Avenue. The board will also consider numerous variance and special use permit requests, including several long-continued cases for hotels and a solar array.
- Appeals of Planning Board approval of 7-lot subdivision at 208 Howland Avenue (three appeals)
- Special Use Permit for 23-unit hotel at 42-44 & 56 Wave Avenue (continued since 2018)
- Variance and Special Use Permit for 18-room hotel at 59 Aquidneck Avenue (amended to 17 rooms)
- Variance for solar array at 0 West Main Road (continued)
- Special Use Permit for 11,406 sq ft YMCA addition at 792 Valley Road
Special Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a special meeting to discuss the Paradise Avenue Traffic Study, signage, and related traffic calming measures. Residents expressed concerns about speed humps and excessive signage, while officials and some residents suggested alternatives like speed cameras and increased police presence. The Council voted unanimously to direct the Town Administrator, Town Engineer, and Police Chief to organize another meeting with residents to reach a compromise.
- Discussion of Paradise Avenue Traffic Study and signage
- Residents' concerns about speed humps and signage aesthetics
- Proposals for speed cameras and police enforcement
- Unanimous vote to hold another resident meeting for compromise
- Town Solicitor Peter B. Regan recused due to conflict of interest
Regular Meeting
The Middletown Town Council met on January 19, 2021, to conduct a pre-budget consultation with the School Committee for FY2022, discuss a public proposal about dog rules on beaches, and consider a zoning change for a property at 438 East Main Road. The council also approved several routine items, including minutes, burial lot transfers, and two new victualling house licenses. The zoning change was discussed in a public hearing but no final vote is recorded in the agenda.
- Pre-budget consultation with School Committee for FY2022, including revenue estimates and expenditure projections
- Public forum proposal for a PR campaign about dog restrictions on Sachuest and Third Beaches (May 1–Sept 30, 5:00–7:45 a.m. only)
- First reading of ordinance to rezone TAP 113 Lot 13 (438 East Main Road) from Office Business Traffic Sensitive (OBA) to Limited Business Traffic Sensitive (LBA)
- Approved new victualling house licenses for Gansett Wraps (510 East Main Road) and Power of Juice (698B Aquidneck Avenue)
- Approved transfers of burial lots in Section 51E to multiple individuals
Special Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a special meeting to continue discussion on the upcoming beach season, including topics like pump-out boats, moorings, beach fees, and food concessions. The council also voted to cancel taxes for certain residents and reappointed Alan Kirby as Tree Warden for 2021. A request for council participation on school budget and building committees was continued for more information.
- Discussion of upcoming beach season, including pump-out boat, moorings, Third Beach pier, and beach fees
- Voted to pass resolution cancelling taxes for certain Middletown residents
- Voted to receive resignation from Open Space and Fields Committee
- Voted to reappoint Alan Kirby as Tree Warden for 2021
- Continued discussion on council participation in school Budget Subcommittee and Building Committee
Special Meeting
The Middletown Town Council held a special meeting to discuss the town's vision and priorities for the next two years. Each council member shared their priorities, which were then grouped into topics such as agenda format, boards and committees, education, open space, ordinances, safety, senior housing, stormwater management, tax, and the Westside Master Plan. No formal decisions were made; the discussion will guide the Town Administrator in setting department policies and allocating resources.
- Discussion of West Side Master Plan
- Comprehensive review of zoning ordinances to slow development
- Senior housing plan update
- Tax reform proposals including phasing out split tax rate
- Stormwater management and Maidford River project
Regular Meeting
The Town Council met to discuss several municipal items including a river restoration update and beach season planning. The Council voted to authorize an $8,000 civic appropriation from the Parks and Recreation Fund for the Middletown Youth Wrestling Club.
- $8,000 civic appropriation for Middletown Youth Wrestling Club
- Temporary expansion of outdoor alcohol service for Tito’s Cantina, Inc. at 651 West Main Road
- Maidford River Restoration Project update regarding phase implementation and river bed relocation
- Resolution authorizing the Planning Department to submit the 2020 RIDEM Trails Grant Application
- Postponement of the RI Department of Administration fueling station agreement