Midland · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Midland public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Residential growth in Mockingbird Ridge
Another section of Midland's largest active subdivision moves forward, adding 99 more home lots. More rooftops mean more neighbors, traffic on Fairgrounds and Todd Drive, and developer obligations for road and utility work that are still outstanding.
Future Lone Star Animal Sanctuary
Roughly 25 acres near East Cynthia Drive and Fairgrounds Road were platted for the new home of the Lone Star Animal Sanctuary. A rezoning to agricultural estate is still in process, so the sanctuary isn't a done deal yet.
Transit funding match
The city's $860,000 FY2027 local match payment to the Midland-Odessa Urban Transit District was up for approval, keeping regional bus service funded.
Walmart Northgate expansion traffic concerns
Council supports the Walmart remodel and expansion concept but deferred final approval until the company delivers a comprehensive plan for entrances, exits, and traffic at Northcrest and Briarwood.
Rezonings and special exceptions citywide
A dozen ordinances were on the docket, including converting multifamily-zoned lots to single-family near East Illinois Avenue, allowing duplexes on South Dallas Street, a planned housing development on Occidental Parkway, and several setback and lot-dimension exceptions.
Appraisal District Election
For the first time ever, Midland residents get to vote on the Central Appraisal District board, giving locals a direct say in who decides their property values and taxes. Candidates are actively campaigning, making this a crucial moment to influence how property assessments are handled.
Specific Use Designations for Alcohol Sales
Two local restaurants requested specific use designations to allow alcohol sales with meals. The commission approved both permits after finding no community objections.
Automobile Sales Use on Andrews Highway
A former Mercedes-Benz dealership property on Andrews Highway received approval for continuous automobile sales and service use.
Automobile Sales and Service Designation
A request was granted to allow automobile sales and service at the former Mercedes-Benz dealership on Andrews Highway.
Board Vacancies
Midland is looking for locals to step up and fill open spots on key boards like the Planning & Zoning Commission and the Midland Development Corporation. If you want a direct say in how the city grows, applications are open until October 16.
Wildcatter Trail Land Acquisition and Development
Midland is moving forward with the Wildcatter Trail project by approving possession and use agreements with local landowners to secure necessary land parcels.
Wayfinding Signs
Midland is putting up 49 new signs to help everyone easily find local museums, parking, and downtown spots. The best part? It's totally paid for by hotel taxes and partners, so it won't cost local property owners a dime.
Annual City Fee Schedule
The council will review and adopt the city's fee schedule for permits, services, and administrative charges taking effect October 1.
Judicial Suspension
Midland County Judge Terry Johnson is off the clock with pay after being indicted for allegedly leaking private info online. The county is now scrambling to find a temporary replacement to keep the courts running smoothly.
Legislative Advocacy
The city is finalizing its wish list for the state legislature to ensure local needs are represented in Austin.
Centennial Tower Office Lease Extension
The MDC extended its downtown office lease at Centennial Tower for another five years to maintain its operational headquarters.
Cemetery Management
Midland families are rightfully upset after city crews discovered human remains in plots that were supposed to be vacant. It’s a massive administrative failure that proves the city’s burial record-keeping is completely broken.
School Funding Litigation
Midland ISD is suing the state to challenge the 'Robin Hood' funding system that siphons local property tax dollars away from our classrooms. This legal battle could decide whether your tax money stays here to fund local schools or gets sent elsewhere.
Federal Opportunity Zones 2.0 Program Nominations
The board voted to support nominating eligible local census tracts for federal Opportunity Zones 2.0 status to encourage targeted private investments.
Commercial Site Plan Review at Thomason Drive and Tradewinds Boulevard
Review of a 0.91-acre commercial site plan proposed by Parkhill on behalf of Texas Brothers, LLC in District 4.
Commercial Site Plan Review on South Loop 250 West
Review of a 1.131-acre commercial site plan proposed by Huitt-Zollars, Inc. for property along South Loop 250 West.
Citizens Collection Station Opening
Midland officially opened its new Citizens Collection Station at 6400 West Highway 80, giving residents a dedicated site for waste disposal and recycling services. The new facility aims to improve local sanitation options and manage community waste more efficiently.
Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Audit Report
Tired of wondering what's going on with all those construction projects? Midland's launched a new online tool that puts all the city's projects and their progress right at your fingertips. Now you can easily track what's being built and how it's moving along.