In its final regular meeting of 2025, there was no shortage of topics before the #MiddletownRI Town Council. From a change order for repairs to local roads to talk of a new street fair and a visit from a holiday favorite, Monday's meeting had it all.
MIDDLETOWN MEETING MATTERS
MIDDLETOWN TOWN COUNCIL
When: Monday night, Dec. 15, 2025
Where: Middletown Town Hall, 350 East Main Road
Absent: None
Of Note:
- Approved a $554,000 change order to fix subdrain water issues under Miantonomi hill and part of Boulevard. Public Works Director Robert Hanley said the road work would start almost immediately and should take about 32 days to complete. Money for the project was included in the existing Fiscal 2026 budget and would not impact other scheduled projects. Visit https://mdl.town/NYCU-Fixes for more.
- Talked about the possibility of a lower Aquidneck Avenue street fair, something local leaders said they wanted to explore before making a decision. While town officials said there were items to consider like parking, insurance, vendors and temporarily closing a state road, mid-May or the fall were floated as possibilities should the event move forward. “We need to do more for families…” council President Paul M. Rodrigues said. “I think we need to think outside the box.”
- Were briefed by Newport Director of Utilities Robert C. Schultz, Jr. about the regional water system, a request of Councilor Dennis Turano. Schultz said his department works hard to provide high-quality water to all its retail customers across Aquidneck Island and was striving to coordinate even more closely with Middletown. To help reduce groundwater contamination, Schultz asked everyone to do their part so that treatment wasn’t so costly because “every little bit helps.” To view a report from Schultz, visit https://www.middletownri.gov/DocumentCenter/View/21857/Briefing-for-Middletown-Town-Council online.
- Got a surprise visit from Santa Claus, who was in the middle of his nightly tour across Middletown. The council thanked the Middletown Firefighters Local 1933 union for coordinating the visit, drawing applause and smiles from all.
Next Meeting: Monday, Jan. 5, at 6:30 pm in Town Hall
Document Link: https://mdl.town/MMM-121525
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