The process followed in the Middletown Master Plan is summarized in Chapter 1 and Appendix A for the plan. The page, however, includes additional documentation of meetings and studies during the planning process. Below are descriptions of each component of the Master Plan process leading up to the development of the plan, along with links to meeting minutes, summary reports and studies.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Steering Committee
The Steering Committee consisted of 30 business and community leaders and concerned citizens appointed by City Council to guide the Master Plan process. The Committee represented a cross-section of the community and was actively involved with shaping and reviewing the Master Plan at each stage of its development. The group met 11 times to review and discuss information presented by planning staff and consultants and to formulate goals, objectives, and strategies. Click below to download minutes from these meetings.
Key-Person Interviews
Interviews were conducted with sixteen persons who are especially knowledgeable about the Middletown community. The interviews helped to identify community issues and opportunities to address in the Master Plan. Click below to download a summary of these interviews.
Community Survey
Between February and April 2004, the City of Middletown distributed approximately 20,000 surveys to Middletown residents as an attachment to their water bills. The City also offered an online version of the survey on this web site. The reason for this survey was that city leaders wanted the Master Plan to be shaped by the ideas and needs of Middletown residents. The City received and tabulated over 2,000 completed surveys, which is considered to be a respectable return rate. City staff and consultants analyzed the results of the surveys in a report and used the information to help create the goals and objectives of the Master Plan. Click below to download a summary report of the survey responses.
Public Forum
A Master Plan forum, open to the public, was held on July 28, 2004, at the City Building. This interactive workshop was an opportunity for Middletonians to have a voice in the future direction of their community. Planners presented the work completed thus far on the Master Plan and asked participants to review and prioritize draft goals and objectives for the plan. The discussions occurred in small groups, and all forum attendees had an opportunity to voice their opinion. Results of these discussions were used to refine the goals and objectives of the Master Plan. Click below to download a summary of the forum.
Focus Groups
Groups of experts and stakeholders from the Middletown community and beyond, from the public and private sectors, were formed to discuss important topics identified during the planning process. These topics include economic development, community development and redevelopment. “Roundtable” meetings were held for the purpose of obtaining expert feedback on Master Plan strategies in these topic areas. Click below to download minutes from each roundtable meeting.
ANALYSIS
Comprehensive Market Study
An analysis of local and regional market trends for residential, retail, office and industrial development, and a proposed set of economic development strategies. This study identifies economic development opportunities and strategies that are realistic and in Middletown's best interests. Click below to download the study.
Financial Analysis and Cost of Services Study
A study of the effects of changes in state and federal policy and historic trends in City revenues and expenditures on future City finances, as well as a study of the costs and benefits to the City associated with various kinds of land uses. This study provides recommendations for the City's future fiscal health and a means of measuring the fiscal impacts of land use decisions. Click below to download the study.
Summary of Past Planning Efforts
A review of various kinds of community visioning efforts or district or citywide plans already completed in Middletown. This report seeks to prevent duplication of past efforts and inform the current planning process. Click below to download the summary.