Downtown Business District

Middletown Downtown Business District Meeting Minutes (DRAFT) Wednesday, December 15, 2021 363 Main Street, Suite 404, Middletown, CT Attendees Jen Alexander (Chair) Jeff Puglise (Chamber) Marc Levin (commissioner) Capt. Mike DeSena (PD) Matt Lefebvre (Commissionet) Trevor Davis (363 Main LLC) Patrick Harding (Commissioner) Cathy Duncan (Chamber) Katies Hughes-Nelson (Commissioner) Kevin Elak (Health Dept) Tom Ford (Commissioner) Chris Holden (Public Works) Mike DiPiro (Commissioner) Sandra Russo-Driska (DBD Coordinator) Meeting called to order by Jen at 8:31 a.m. CITY PARTNER UPDATES: Public Works- Chris Holden reported that Bill Russo was retiring as well as their budget analyst Liz Cyranowicz. They have finished the leaves pick up and they are sweeping and cleaning basins in preparation for snow. They are gearing up for winter, and they are in good shape with materials and hoping to have enough drivers for plowing. Jen commented on the sidewalk in front of the Historical Society was in need of repair and there is graffiti issues on the black light poles. Chris said he would look into those items. Chris told a funny story about “Frosty” the inflatable snowman being taken for a walk by someone and showing up in front of the Chamber! Police- Patrick asked if there was an uptick in graffiti because their building got hit. Mike DeSena noted that a female was arrested for spray painting on the street, and it turned out that she did many buildings. Bike patrols are still active on Main Street and will keep going as much as possible thru winter. PD was ready for the Dashing thru Downtown parade happening next Saturday. Health- Kevin Elak noted a sizeable uptick and surge in Covid cases in Middletown which was expected. The Delta wave started mid-July / August and so now its Omicron taking over in the US. CT, VT, NH are all seeing it become the dominant variant.  Page 2 They are recommending precautions such as getting vaccinated and boosted, masking in public and around larger crowds, and avoid unvaccinated crowds. He is assuring everyone we don’t need to remain home and hide but encourages doing those things that will protect each other and to just be very cautious. Boosters are recommended 6 months after vaccination of Moderna and Pfizer and 2 months after J & J. AME Zion is hosting the City Covid Vaccine Clinics. Check City’s webpage for details on days and times. Chamber is hosting a Vaccine Clinic this Friday. Health Department staff has canvassed downtown businesses and restaurants and reviewed the guidelines for Covid protocol and how to manage an outbreak in staff, how to triage and mange the situation to remain open. Warming Center- Wesley Inn is up and running and going well. 35 beds at a time, it ebbs and flows. Looking for additional options for more space for overflow. Center needs to be open 9p-7a, so no one is in the cold overnight. Mayor- Absent. Economic Development/Parking- Sandra stated the Tom Marano reported the Riverfront project is collaborating with the business industry and individuals for a well-rounded perspective. Jen reported on the focus group that took place and that she has suggested that a downtown focus group be formed to focus on our specific issues. Jen will be sure our priorities are heard. COMMUNITY PARTNER UPDATES: St. Vincent’s- Sandra reported they will be meeting in January to regroup and discuss the Outreach Manager Program and budgeting going forward. Chamber of Commerce – Jeff gave a shout out to Kevin and Chris for all their efforts. The Chamber is looking forward to hosting the vaccine clinic on Friday, past clinic was successful.  Page 3 They have gotten great feedback on the decorations in downtown. It’s a positive vibe and good work was done by all. Holiday on Main ends this Saturday with Dashing through Downtown. The last few Saturdays were very busy starting with the tree lighting and they have had great feedback from the community. Governor’s breakfast was held yesterday. First in person since Feb 2020. 300 people in the ballroom. Vaccinations were strongly recommended, and masks were worn. The governor set a positive tone and discussed Eversource response being greatly improved during storms. He asked that we all spread the word and support local business during the remaining holiday season by hosing parties, shopping, dining, etc. CBB meeting in January will possibly be going back to hybrid. Jen noted she really appreciated that when there are people that still cannot attend in person. Wesleyan- Absent APPROVAL OF MINUTES:  Motion made Marc to accept November 2021 minutes  2nd made by Patrick  All in favor TREASURER’S REPORT: Patrick noted that a separate account was set up for the 100k grant at Liberty and asked Marc to be a second signer. He also pointed out the larger expenses in November were $4,000 for new brochures and $3,000 for sidewalk cleaning.  Motion made by Marc to accept  2nd made by Mike  All in favor COMMITTEE REPORTS: Advertising/Promotion- Jen noted Diane is absent due to interview with NPR. She also noted Main Street is hitting it out of the park right now. Busy and bustling. The only advertising currently is social media.  Page 4 Beautification- Planters have been a bit of an issue with the birch sticks being taken, moved, etc. Buds N Blossoms is checking them weekly through Jan. 1 to keep them looking great. Gift Cards – Going tremendously. Amato’s is extremely busy with them as is the Chamber. Sandra restocks regularly. Online sales are very strong as well. Special Projects- Jen reported that Kat Owens has a state grant and is setting up a studio at Main St (Irreplaceable Artifacts Building) in the next few weeks. The project is a whale mural that the public can participate in. Great family activity, quilting. It will be visually exiting to see it come together. DBD Coordinator Report- Sandra reported the Inn at Middletown is officially reopening on Dec. 29 th. 925 Report- Trevor stated the buyer is planning many very small apartments on the 2nd and 3rd floors. Possibly closing in March if all works out. They need help with remediation and tax breaks. Buyer also own Stonegate Apartments on South Main St. Parking is not figured out yet. Tom F. noted they had preliminary discussions on 30 spaces. Jen updated the commission on the CT Community Challenges Grant. City has put together 4 buildings and it requires matching dollars. (Roller Rink building, YMCA, Irreplaceable Art., Bob’s building) There will not be as much funding in first round. Distressed communities get priority, which we are not. Information is due to be submitted by Jan. 14th. Adjournment:  Motion made by Marc to adjourn at 9:13 am  2nd by Tom  Meeting adjourned