News Flash

MIDDLETOWN MEETING MATTERS 

MIDDLETOWN TOWN COUNCIL

When: Monday, Nov. 3, 2025

Where: Middletown Town Hall, 350 East Main Road.

Absent: Charlie Roberts

Of Note, The Council:

• Learned the town was actively working to assist those impacted by the government shutdown directly with the community’s partners. Anyone in need of assistance was directed to the Middletown Helps website at https://mdl.town/Services online. For those looking to speak with someone directly, please contact the following individuals:
  • For the Middletown community, contact Director of Community Engagement and Partnerships Lori Turner at lturner@middletownri.gov or 401-842-6599.
  • For the Middletown senior population, contact the Middletown Senior Center at akaull@middletownri.gov or (401) 849-8823.
  • For the Middletown schools, contact Homeless and Family Liaison Megan Mainzer at mmainzer@mpsri.net or (401) 849-2122.
• Received a report from the Tax Exploration Subcommittee about ways Middletown could improve its tax system. The volunteer group suggested expanding tax exemptions for veterans, seniors and historical properties, addressing “anomalies” in neighborhood tax codes, looking at ways to further diversify the town’s tax revenues and other suggestions. In response, the council thanked the subcommittee for its work and said they wanted to look into expanding benefits for all veterans and more seniors, items Town Solicitor Peter Regan was asked to research. To view the report, visit https://www.middletownri.gov/DocumentCenter/View/21504/Tax-Exploration-Subcommittee-Report-11325 online.
• Got a five year budget forecast from Finance Director Marc Tanguay. Addressing the council, Tanguay reminded local leaders the numbers were projections and not set in stone. Rather, he said it was ultimately up to the council to determine how and where the town spends its funding. Council members agreed they wanted to take a close look at the numbers part of the upcoming proposed Fiscal 2027 budget to make sure taxpayers get the most for every dollar. To view the report, visit https://www.middletownri.gov/DocumentCenter/View/21503/5-Year-Budget-Forecast-Report-11325 online. 
• Heard a report from Shared Facilities Director Ed Collins the new middle high school remains “on time and on budget.” Council President Paul Rodrigues said he was at the work site last week and the progress was noteworthy. “It’s pretty impressive to see the coordination that’s happening out there,” Rodrigues said.
• Listened to an apology from Rodrigues to a group of residents who’ve raised concerns with the ongoing library renovation project at 110 Enterprise Center. Addressing the crowd, the council president said his handling of the discussion at the Oct. 20 session had been bothering him since and “it wasn’t one of my better moments.” Moving forward, Rodrigues said he and the rest of the council pledged to work hard for its residents, businesspeople and visitors.
• Applauded library Director Kimberly Usselman for her work organizing and coordinating a well attended wall breaking ceremony last week for the new Middletown Public Library. “You did an excellent job,” Rodrigues said. “Thank you for your work here.”
• Approved a special event permit for a Middletown High School and Little League Islander Plunge scholarship fundraiser on Jan. 1 at Second Beach from 11 am-1 pm at Second Beach. Councilor Peter Connerton said he would definitely be participating in the new event for 315 Sachuest Point Road.

Next Meeting: Nov. 17, 2025 at 6:30 pm in Town Hall.

Document Link: https://mdl.town/MMM-11325

About Middletown

The Town of Middletown is a vibrant municipality located on Aquidneck Island, known for its scenic beauty, historic landmarks, diverse economy and strong sense of community. For more information about all we have to offer, visit MiddletownRI.gov online.

Media Contact

Matt Sheley

Public Affairs Officer

401-842-6543

msheley@middletownri.com