The Middletown Common Council convened on June 3, 2024, for a hybrid meeting that included both in-person and remote participation. The session began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by the class president, Liliana, followed by the formal call to order by Mayor Benjamin D. Florsheim. The agenda was adopted unanimously after a motion by Councilman Plano and a second by Councilman Faulkner.

The council reviewed and approved minutes from several previous meetings, including a public hearing on the 2024-2025 fiscal year budget and a water rate hearing, all passing without opposition. Notably, Councilwoman Salafia proposed an amendment to clarify the location description in the minutes regarding a building tour, which was also adopted unanimously.

The meeting transitioned to a public hearing segment, where residents voiced their concerns primarily about the ongoing Route 9 project. Ed McKeown, a local resident, emphasized the importance of the project and expressed hope for the council's support, while Sari Rosenblatt raised questions about the project's benefits to Middletown, particularly regarding its impact on traffic and local neighborhoods.

Bill Wilson shared his frustrations with traffic congestion on Route 9, advocating for a reevaluation of the current plans, which he deemed inadequate. He highlighted the need for proper development of the riverfront area, suggesting that the highway's design has historically hindered access to this asset.

Kate Miller criticized the current proposal from the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CCDOT), arguing that it contradicts the city's Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD) and could exacerbate air quality issues. She urged the council to consider hiring an engineer to reassess the project in light of community feedback.

Duffy White echoed the call for more time to evaluate the proposal, reflecting on the historical disconnect between the city and its riverfront. He advocated for a lower speed limit on Route 9 to enhance safety and protect local businesses.

The public hearing underscored a strong community interest in the Route 9 project, with residents urging the council to carefully consider the implications of any changes to the highway's design and its potential effects on Middletown's future development. The council's next steps remain to be seen as they weigh the feedback from constituents against the proposed plans.