Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Zoning Text Amendment topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Middletown adopts "urban horticulture" zoning amendment to allow greenhouses, rooftop farming and community gardens downtown
Summary
The commission created a new "urban horticulture" use, permitting rooftop gardens, community gardens, hydroponics and similar activities in several downtown business zones to promote food access, education and downtown vitality; the measure passed after public support from residents and environmental groups.
The Planning & Zoning Commission voted to amend sections of the Middletown zoning code to create a defined "urban horticulture" use and to permit it in several business and mixed-use zones including B1 (downtown), B2, NPA, IRA and ID.
Director of Land Use Mary Kazakowski said the definition will explicitly allow community gardens, rooftop farming, vertical farming, greenhouses and indoor hydroponic systems while excluding cannabis-related growing. Several residents and local organizations spoke in favor. "It's always good to have growing things around us, good for our mental health, good for our climate," said Krishna Winston, who identified herself as a Middletown resident and supporter.
Commissioners said the change aligns with the city's Plan of Conservation & Development and noted it would allow community and school partnerships. The amendment passed on a voice vote; staff noted standard follow-up reviews for site-specific development would remain in place.
