The Midland City Council held a general meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 27, at 10 a.m. in City Hall. The meeting was brief, with few items sparking significant discussion among council members.
City staff presented proposed revisions to the city code concerning substandard and vacant buildings. Emphasizing the dangers posed by such structures when left accessible to the public, staff highlighted the revisions as part of the city’s broader revitalization strategy.
Currently, the city lacks immediate options to secure unsafe buildings, with existing policies mandating a lengthy three-month process before the city can act. The proposed revisions aim to streamline the process, enabling the city to promptly board and secure vacant and substandard buildings, with potential demolition discussions to follow as needed.
Mayor Lori Blong thanked city staff for promptly addressing the revisions following recent complaints about hazardous conditions in dilapidated buildings. Blong underscored the importance of addressing the root cause of the city’s crime hot spots, which are often unsafe structures accessible to the public. She emphasized the city’s commitment to balancing safety and security with property owner’s rights.
City staff clarified that even after the city secures a building, property owners still have the opportunity to appeal the decision. Furthermore, staff discussed that while the city would bear the initial cost of securing the building, these expenses would ultimately pass to the property owner.
Following further deliberation, the council unanimously approved the revisions.
Additionally, the council reviewed candidates for the Downtown Park Conservancy Board of Directors. Councilwoman Robin Poole nominated Traci Proctor, who received unanimous approval.
The council adjourned to executive session at 10:40 p.m. The next city council meeting is slated for Tuesday, March 19, at 10 a.m.