Middletown planning board approves minutes, local business permits and a project extension

The City of Middletown Planning Board met on Oct. 2, 2024 and handled a slate of routine items and local permit requests.

The board approved the minutes of its Sept. 4, 2024 meeting in a roll‑call vote (motion maker: Mister Brito; second: Mister Madden). Roll call recorded votes in favor from Mister Madden, Mister Brito, Miss Witt and the chair; Miss Houston abstained because she was absent for the Sept. 4 meeting.

The board granted a six‑month extension to the Falan Dafa Gangjin World Foundation for its previously approved project at 9–29 Canal Street. The applicant said it is working with a historic consultant to address regulatory requirements; the extension was approved by unanimous vote after no public speakers came forward.

The board voted to approve a 25‑foot addition to an existing office building at 13 Bedford Avenue, hearing brief presentation from Joseph Lavigny who said the extra space would provide room for desks. There were no public comments and the resolution passed on roll call.

The board also approved a request from Fior De La Cruz for a wine‑and‑beer license at 215 Wickham (record also references Whitcomb) for an existing eating and drinking establishment; no public opposition was recorded. Planning board members and staff confirmed mailings and application completeness prior to the vote.

Steven Espersanto told the board he plans to open a barbershop at 101 Mahagon Avenue; the board asked for clarification on parking and received an email from the landlord promising designated parking spaces behind the building. The board approved the application.

Motions were made and approved by roll call for each of these items; the board concluded its business and adjourned the meeting.