During the recent Middletown Township Board of Supervisors meeting on May 15, 2023, residents voiced significant concerns regarding noise and air quality issues stemming from a nearby shopping center. Bob Feather, a long-time resident, highlighted ongoing frustrations over unresolved complaints about excessive noise from refrigeration trucks idling in the loading bays, particularly during early morning hours. Feather emphasized that despite numerous communications with township officials, including emails and letters, the issues have not been adequately addressed.

Feather's testimony underscored a broader community sentiment that the township has not sufficiently responded to their quality of life concerns. He pointed out that the noise levels from the trucks often exceed the township's noise ordinance limits, which specify maximum decibel levels during different times of the day. Feather reported personal measurements indicating that noise levels reached 82 decibels, significantly above the allowable limits, making it difficult for residents to enjoy their homes.

In response, township officials acknowledged the ongoing efforts to monitor the situation, including sound readings conducted by the township engineer. However, they noted that these readings have not indicated a violation of the noise ordinance. The township manager mentioned previous meetings with the shopping center management, which had agreed to implement changes to mitigate noise but had not yet resolved the residents' complaints.

The discussion also touched on the limitations of the township's jurisdiction regarding air quality issues, which further complicated the residents' grievances. Feather suggested the establishment of a liaison to facilitate better communication between residents and the shopping center management, emphasizing the need for ongoing dialogue to address the concerns effectively.

As the meeting concluded, officials expressed a willingness to re-engage with the shopping center management and encouraged residents to continue advocating for themselves. The board's commitment to addressing these issues reflects a recognition of the importance of maintaining a high quality of life for all Middletown residents. However, the path forward remains uncertain as residents await tangible improvements to their living conditions.