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Planning Commission denies conditional use after staff flags unclear operations at 1342 Central Avenue
Summary
The Middletown Planning Commission voted 5-0 April 9 to deny a conditional use application for Key Better Day Society at 1342 Central Avenue because staff and commissioners found the proposed scope of services unclear and raised outstanding licensing and health-code questions.
The Middletown Planning Commission voted 5-0 April 9 to deny a conditional use application filed by Lakisha Thomas (Key Better Day Society) to operate a fraternal/charitable/service-oriented organization at 1342 Central Avenue.
Staff told the commission the property is in the UCC (Urban Core Central) subdistrict; staff amended the report to note the applicant had withdrawn a proposed daycare component and that Downtown Middletown Incorporated was the only external commenter. Staff said the applicant's business plan and other submitted documents referenced after-school and summer programming for children with disabilities and behavioral issues, as well as charitable distribution activities. Staff and commissioners expressed concern the applicant's description of services remained unclear: the application had previously been denied in August because counseling or medical-services elements were not disclosed in the zoning application, and some written materials still appeared to describe services that could be construed as counseling or childcare.
Commissioners also noted possible issues with food service and required health and building permits. Staff said the applicant had told the city she began operations in June 2024 but was not using the property at the moment due to billing or access issues; staff also reported the applicant called shortly before the meeting asking for a continuance and said she might sign a different lease soon. Based on the unclear scope of operations, outstanding questions about licensing and health-code requirements, and the staff recommendation, the commission moved to deny the conditional use.
The record notes staff encouraged the applicant to work with the health department and Community and Economic Development staff to identify an appropriate location and confirm required permits before reapplying; staff and commissioners said they did not want to stifle charitable activity but emphasized zoning and health requirements must be met.
