During a recent Middletown government meeting, community members and officials engaged in a robust discussion surrounding several key agenda items, notably the reclassification of city employee positions, the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) appropriations, and the controversial \"Save As You Throw\" trash program.

Jennifer Kleindienst, a local resident, voiced her support for CDBG appropriations, particularly for the Jonah Center for Earth and Art, Odd Fellows Playhouse, and the Middletown Farmers Market. She emphasized the need for a reclassification of the city's recycling coordinator position, advocating for enhanced sustainability efforts. Kleindienst also expressed her backing for modifications to the \"Save As You Throw\" program, which incentivizes residents to manage waste more responsibly by requiring them to purchase specific trash bags.

The meeting also featured significant commentary from various speakers regarding labor issues. State Senator Jan Hockadel and local Democratic leaders urged the council to uphold union contracts and support the reclassification of positions within the Human Resources department. Hockadel highlighted the importance of fair compensation to retain qualified public employees, while other speakers echoed concerns about the potential negative impacts of delaying necessary reclassifications.

Concerns were raised about the \"Save As You Throw\" program, with some residents arguing that it disproportionately affects families and renters. Erin Guevara criticized the program for its perceived flaws, stating that it fails to accommodate the realities of larger households and the challenges faced by landlords in enforcing compliance among tenants.

The discussion culminated in calls for the dissolution of the sanitation district, with residents expressing frustration over the program's implementation and its perceived inequities. Jody Demir and others argued that the district's policies have led to unnecessary burdens on residents, advocating for a reevaluation of the current waste management system.

As the meeting concluded, the council was urged to consider the implications of their decisions on both community welfare and labor relations, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that respects contractual obligations while addressing the needs of Middletown's diverse population.