Housing is one of the biggest issues in #MiddletownRI. Join the Comprehensive Community Plan Update Committee for a discussion about housing on Feb. 15. To learn more, visit Housing online.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Matt Sheley at (401) 842-6543 or msheley@middletownri.com
PUBLIC INPUT SOUGHT ON HOUSING IN MIDDLETOWN
MIDDLETOWN, R.I. (JANUARY 24, 2024) – The comprehensive plan is one of the key documents driving Middletown’s future.
On Feb. 15 at 6 pm in Town Hall, the volunteer group leading a review of the massive document is seeking input from residents and businesspeople on how Middletown should move forward with housing for years to come.
One of about a dozen different elements that comprise the comprehensive plan — including everything from economic development to the environment — housing is likely to be the one that draws the most interest.
Town Planner Ronald M. Wolanski said given the current realities across the community, the Comprehensive Plan Update Committee wanted to make sure everyone had a chance to chime in on the issue.
“Obviously, there’s been quite a bit of discussion about housing in Middletown and affordability,” Wolanski said. “This is one true opportunity people have to do something lasting that can help shape how Middletown addresses the housing discussion for years to come.”
Over the last several months, the update committee has been making its way through the comprehensive plan line by line to see where changes or improvements might be warranted.
According to state law, each community’s comprehensive plan must be updated every 10 years at least. To view Middletown’s current comprehensive plan, visit https://mdl.town/CompPlan online.
After the comprehensive plan is thoroughly reviewed, the update committee forwards its recommended revisions to the Town Council for analysis. At that point, the council decides which elements to pursue and those that don’t make the cut.
Throughout, the public has multiple opportunities to offer input and make suggestions about how best to progress.
“It’s important that everyone feels like their voices are heard and their input matters,” Wolanski said. “I know the committee is looking forward to hearing the ideas that are out there and what’s next.”
Document Link: https://www.middletownri.com/DocumentCenter/View/10548/NYCU-Feb-15