Midland · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Midland public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
ETJ Development and Water Sustainability
The Midkiff Industrial Center plat would add nearly two acres of industrial-platted land near South Midkiff Road, outside city limits but within the city's ETJ. Industrial growth near residential areas is often a point of resident concern.
Water Security and T-BAR Property
A hired security firm couldn't breach the city's computer systems but got under a fence at a water facility, prompting the $110,000 engineering contract for fencing, gates, and cameras — required by TCEQ to be engineer-stamped.
Flock Safety Contract Termination
The city council voted unanimously to cancel its contract for 73 automated license plate recognition cameras over growing privacy concerns regarding data collection and sharing.
Commercial and Residential Development
The commission reviewed multiple plats to allow for future commercial and residential development across Midland, ensuring infrastructure and access compliance.
FY 2026-2027 Budget and Tax Rate
The city adopted a $504 million budget holding the property tax rate flat at the no-new-revenue level, funding public safety initiatives and capital projects with cash instead of debt.
Infrastructure and Highway Economics
Heads up, Midland! Big road and utility projects are underway, and they're going to take time. Get ready for some traffic headaches and detours as the city works to improve things.
2026-2027 Municipal Budget
The Midland Development Corporation adopted a nearly $23.9 million budget for the next fiscal year, utilizing $15 million in projected sales tax revenue and drawing from net position reserves to fund local economic programs.
Traffic Safety (Vision Zero)
Get ready for some traffic headaches, Midland! New safety measures are coming to deal with the crowds expected when the new Costco opens.
Water Infrastructure Capacity
Midland is partnering with Pioneer Natural Resources and Jacobs to upgrade its water infrastructure. This collaboration aims to ensure a stable and reliable water supply for the city's future needs.
AST & Science Facility Expansion
AST & Science plans to construct a massive 400,000-square-foot satellite manufacturing facility in Midland, bringing 1,600 new full-time jobs and millions in capital investment. The project is designed to boost local job market diversification and aerospace manufacturing.
Midland Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Microgrant Program
Midland is getting a massive $5 million grant to build a vertical launch site. This could seriously boost local jobs and the economy, bringing in new opportunities.
City Council Assembly for Bible Study
A young newcomer, 21-year-old Cheston Blank, is running for Midland City Council. Will his fresh ideas shake things up in District 3?
Drainage Fee
Midland's drainage fee is back in the spotlight, and it's not a new tax. This fee is crucial for funding the city's long-term infrastructure projects, ensuring our drainage systems stay in tip-top shape.
Sex Offender Regulations
Heads up, Midland! New rules are coming for registered sex offenders, potentially changing where they can hang out or even live. The city council just gave the green light to these updates, so things might look a little different soon.
City Council Elections
Midland voters, get ready to hit the polls! We've got the lowdown on who's vying for those at-large City Council seats so you can pick the best person for the job.