Downtown Business District

Downtown Business District Meeting Minutes December 14,2022 363 Main Street, Suite 404 Middletown, CT 06457 Attendees: Jen Alexander (Chair) Chief Erik Costa (MPD) Marc Levin (Commissioner) Capt. Brian Hubbs (MPD) Patrick Harding (Commissioner) Maryellen Shuckrow (St. Vins Director) Matt Lefebvre (Commissioner) Rani Arbo (Wesleyan) Marie Kalita (Commissioner) Kevin Elak (Health Director) Tom Ford (Commissioner) Anne Marie Cannata (Buttonwood Tree) Mike DiPiro (Commissioner) Ken Ahnell (Beautification Manager) Cathy Duncan (Chamber) Sandra Russo-Driska (DBD Coordinator) Rob Lucheme (Tshudin Chocolates) Trevor Davis (363 Main LLC) Chris Holden (Public Works) Dep. Chief Rich Davis (MPD) Sara Mendillo (Chamber) Call to Order- Meeting was called to order by Chair, Jen Alexander at 8:32 a.m. CITY PARTNERS Mayor- Not Present Police- Chief Costa reported foot patrol are increased and more visible to handle the issues that we were having with the increase of incidents. A direct phone line has been established for downtown stakeholders to contact the police desk directly and bypass having to call dispatch. Chief clarified that he is working on having the ordinance revised for panhandling and aggressive language applies to individuals that leave public sidewalk and enter a private business and this will be enforced. He stated that the PD and St. Vincent’s have a great working relationship as well as the CIT Program. Violence and drug activity is down in the north end by deterring these activities with action and investigation. He closed by commenting how grateful the PD was for the support of Officer Matt Silvestrini. Public Works- Chis Holden reported that a Deputy Director of PW has been hired, Howard Weisburg, and he is settling in. Sidewalk work at South Green for trip hazards is being addressed. Finishing up leaves. Noted that missing light replacements in parking lots will get addressed. He reminded everyone to use See,Click, Fix for issues.  DBD Minutes Pg. 2 Health Department- Kevin reported the concern over the triple-demic. Flu has spiked prominently. RSV is plateauing, we hope. Covid is rearing it’s ugly head. Holiday season gatherings are a concern, please test, stay home if not feeling well. Masks are strongly encouraged indoors and encouraging everyone to get fully vaccinated if not already. Warming Center opened Dec. 1st. Going well so far and is at capacity. Working with new restaurant owners at Oh Mama and the polish deli at 386 Main St. Economic Development/Parking- Not Present COMMUNITY PARTNERS St. Vincent’s- Maryellen thanked the DBD for funding James through January. Things have been quieter with colder weather. James is actively working panhandlers and visiting businesses to be sure they have his number. He runs a recovery event every Friday from 4-6 to get people off the street. James is in place until the end of January and then hoping the City will include funding in next FY. Maryellen then discussed she is in contract phase for the new building, hired the architect, and plans to apply for further funding through the state. Soup kitchen is very busy, and Amazing Grace has had a 20% uptick. Soup kitchen is open later 2-4pm. Outreach worker now 2 days per week in the kitchen. Chamber- Sara stated we had a successful Holiday on Main. She stated that thanks to the N End Discussion Group meeting regularly, good work is coming from those sessions. Sexual Harassment Training Tues. Jan 10th is available. Cathy reported CBB will meet Thursday, Jan. 5. MPD will host. 1st meeting with Johanna leading the Chamber. Wesleyan: Rani reported that students are wrapping up for the break and housing closes Dec. 18th. Minutes  Motion made by Marc to approve December minutes.  2nd by Tom  December minutes approved.  DBD Minutes Pg. 3 Treasurer’s Report  Motion to approve Treasurer Report made by Marc  2nd by Marie  All in Favor. Treasurer’s report accepted. Jen noted we will be looking to make positive reporting changes in the New Year. DBD COMMITTEE UPDATES Advertising/Promotion- Sandra reported social media is going great and businesses are sending content and tagging downtown. Gift Cards- Cards are going great for the holidays and Kidcity is now selling cards. Maintenance & Beautification- Trevor voiced concern about the demolition at the Bob’s Building. Sandra will reach out to city officials and report back. Planters- commissioners noted lack of color and fullness. Sandra reported the company is great to work with and responds immediately when issues arise with the planters and she will look into different options for next holiday season. 2 planters were moved from in front of Forbidden Llama and LaBoca from then being used as trash containers. Special Projects- Jen reported on the $300k in ARPA funding and noted that the process is much more than anticipated. Discussion followed. The proposal of a subcommittee was raised to look into the grant and options further. Jen noted a Budget Committee will need to be formed at the January meeting. 925 Report- No report Adjournment:  Motion to adjourn at 9:25 am by Marie  2nd by Marc  All in Favor. Meeting Adjourned.