During a recent Middletown City Council meeting, officials discussed several key legislative items, including wage adjustments for city employees and funding for local businesses through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

The council approved a tentative agreement aimed at making wage adjustments for city employees, which had been in negotiation for over a year. The urgency of this agreement was emphasized by the need to remain competitive with surrounding municipalities, particularly in light of the unique status of Middletown as one of the few cities in Ohio with its own independent jail system. The council members expressed a desire to ensure that employee compensation aligns with regional standards, although specific wage comparisons were not immediately available.

In addition to wage discussions, the council addressed a resolution to adjust appropriations for the city’s general fund, which included provisions for the purchase of a canine unit for the police department. This resolution was also declared an emergency to expedite the funding process.

Another significant item on the agenda was the sixth amendment to the development agreement with Woodard Development, LLC, concerning the Middletown and Warren County Sports Arena and Event Center project. This amendment is intended to facilitate the application for state grant funding by transferring property title to the Warren County Port Authority, which is a prerequisite for the funding application. The council discussed the implications of this transfer, ensuring that the city’s interests remain protected.

The meeting also included a series of ordinances related to the ARPA infusion grant program, which aims to support local businesses affected by revenue loss during the pandemic. Council members reviewed individual agreements with various businesses, including a grocery store seeking funds for a walk-in cooler. Concerns were raised about funding repairs for properties not owned by the businesses receiving grants, but officials clarified that improvements would benefit the community as a whole, regardless of future tenants.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the council's commitment to enhancing employee compensation, supporting local development projects, and providing financial assistance to businesses in need, all while navigating the complexities of municipal governance and funding requirements.