Middletown board adopts 2025 water and sewer budget within tax cap

The Middletown Board of Estimate voted to adopt the city's 2025 general water and sewer budget on Nov. 14 after holding a public hearing.

City staff presented totals for the coming year, saying the water-and-sewer appropriation is $50,437,000 and the overall municipal budget is "about 70,000,000 for 2025," and that the proposed tax levy falls within the 2025 tax cap. Leonora, who summarized the figures during the hearing, said the city estimates a 2.25% increase for water and sewer rates and noted that the tax-cap balance will be covered by other operating revenues including sales and mortgage taxes and departmental income.

The hearing drew no public testimony in the chamber and staff said no online participants registered to speak. Council members asked staff for confirmation of the 2.25% estimate and the tax-cap number; staff reiterated that the tax-cap figure for 2025 is being observed and that other revenue sources are expected to close the gap.

After the public record was closed, the board voted to adopt the budget. The chair moved the resolution, which was seconded by Rodriguez, and the measure carried by voice vote.

Adoption means the city will move into the 2025 fiscal year with the rates and appropriations as presented; officials said they will continue to monitor revenues and departmental spending throughout the year and will report back if adjustments are needed.