Middletown Board of Estimate approves property appraisal, $100,000 police grant and upgrades to Wolfslayer Field

MIDDLETOWN — The Middletown Board of Estimate on Monday approved a package of routine and project-specific measures that included declaring a vacant commercial parcel surplus, accepting state grant funding for the police department and amending a field-repair transfer to add Americans with Disabilities Act–compatible work.

Julissa Sierra asked the board to increase the senior-trips line to $8,390 to cover additional attendees for planned outings, noting those trips are paid by participants: "These are all covered by contributions from the patrons that are participating. And there's no expense or cost to the city." Another speaker responded, "That is correct." The board approved the budget change.

On land use, the board considered a letter from Alexis Perez, Manager of Exterior Pro Builders Inc., expressing interest in buying 30 Church Street. Staff member Jacob told the board he "recall[ed] seeing some potential water body in there which has to be protected," and members agreed to declare the parcel surplus, authorize a professional appraisal, and direct the corporation counsel to pursue disposal options that protect the city’s interests.

The board authorized the acceptance of a $100,000 grant awarded to the City of Middletown Police Department by the New York State Department of Criminal Justice Services. The chief had asked that the funds be added to the city's established gift account; the board approved the request.

Council and staff approved two easements for 48–54 North Street (the Montgomery Ward building) so the developer can modify the building face toward Jerry’s Park. The packet and sketch shown to the body described three storefronts and 21 apartments; members emphasized trees could not be removed without mayoral authorization and that a permanent easement would not vest until a certificate of occupancy (C of O) for the first floor is obtained.

The board also approved accepting $1,455 donated in memory of Richard Wolslayer to purchase shoulder pads for Middletown Youth Football and authorized the mayor to sign a $25,000 legislative initiative grant from Assemblywoman Gunther for the Office of Parks and Recreation and Historic Preservation.

On infrastructure and contracts, members authorized hiring consultant CPL to update the city’s MS4 stormwater permit under a $98,100 proposal and approved declaring several vehicles and pieces of equipment surplus for sale through Auctions International. Officials noted prior auction proceeds of about $14,000 had been received for earlier dispositions.

A $9,000 transfer to purchase bumpers (car stops) and asphalt at Wolfslayer Field was discussed at length. Several members moved to amend the resolution to deplete the sidewalks account and transfer the remaining balance to the Davidge/Rodriguez Field expense account, authorizing additional ADA-compliant pathway work. The amendment passed and the board approved the amended transfer and the additional, ADA-focused work.

A request to adjust water and sewer charges for 125 Peach Place was postponed because the paperwork was not in the meeting packet; the board voted to table that matter to the next meeting.

The board adjourned after completing the listed agenda items. The city clerk or meeting minutes will reflect formal motion language and the official vote record.