At a Glance: Motions, Scheduling and Outcomes From the May 13 Middletown Fair Rent Commission

Key actions at the May 13 meeting included dismissal, motions to pause eviction, and scheduling for settlement discussions. The commission dismissed a complaint that named the housing authority rather than the landlord. In a separate retaliation hearing, the housing authority agreed to withdraw a notice to quit and pause eviction proceedings while the parties prepare a stipulated order. The McPherson compliance matter — involving a prior commission order lowering rent to $8.75 pending repairs — was tabled to allow settlement discussions by Zoom; staff will seek required inspection reports. Finally, a retaliation complaint involving Menarca/Market Properties was dismissed after commissioners concluded the evidence did not show retaliation tied to the latest notice to quit.

Roll-call and voice votes were recorded for motions; staff will issue written decisions and circulate stipulated-order drafts. A Zoom settlement for the McPherson case was set for 2:00 p.m. the following day; parties were urged to consider withdrawing pending housing-court eviction filings by mutual agreement to protect the tenant's ability to secure new housing.