The Midland City Council held a general meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 13, at 10 a.m. in City Hall. Mayor Lori Blong commenced the session by leading a moment of silence to honor Councilman Dan Corrales, who passed away unexpectedly a few weeks earlier.
Christy Weakland, the city’s Director of Finance, delivered a presentation outlining the city staff’s efforts to finance various council priorities, including public safety, quality of life enhancements, and infrastructure projects. Notably, Weakland announced a five percent pay increase for police and fire personnel to bolster retention and recruitment efforts.
Regarding quality-of-life initiatives, Weakland disclosed that the city would allot $16.2 million from oil and gas tax revenues to add six new fields to the Reyes Mashburn Nelms park. An additional $26 million, with $10 million from private donations, would fund the expansion of Beal Park with 62 soccer fields.
On infrastructure updates, Weakland reported that the 2017 $100 million road bond project was nearing completion, with 24 out of 26 roads already finished. She also highlighted upcoming street improvement plans, including installing new traffic signals, school flashers, and initiatives under the Compass Program addressing infrastructural needs in underserved parts of the community.
Following Weakland’s presentation, Gabe McClelland, the city’s Director of Engineering, discussed efforts to forge community partnerships. Crestview Baptist Church expressed interest in collaborating with the city to enhance the community. McClelland outlined potential engagement activities, such as litter cleanup drives, art installations, and park enhancements.
The council then proceeded to address consent agenda items. Councilwoman Robin Poole requested to bring up item five on the Midland Youth Advisory Council. The group is open to Midland students in grades 10-12, and applications for next year’s roster will open in April. Councilwoman Amy Burkes sought clarification on item six about a purchase agreement for chemicals. Utilities Director Carl Craigo explained the necessity of the chemicals to combat a zebra mussel infestation in one of the city’s water sources.
Councilman John Norman asked to address item 17, which proposed a special election on May 4 to fill the at-large council position left vacant by Councilman Corrales’ passing. Blong clarified the legal obligation to fill the seat within a specific timeframe, and Norman encouraged civic engagement, urging potential candidates to apply by March 4. The elected individual will serve until Jan. 2025, with the option to run for a second term in the Nov. 2024 general election. Early voting for the special election will commence on April 24.
After addressing the remaining agenda items, the council adjourned the meeting after 1 p.m. The next city council meeting is slated for Tuesday, Feb. 27, at 10 a.m.