Midland · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in City of Midland public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Downtown Development Authority Lot D reconstruction
The downtown Lot D parking area and lift station drive will be repaved for about $133,000.
Case Systems tax exemption and job retention
Case Systems, a long-standing Midland manufacturer, wants to add 51,945 square feet to its James Savage Road facility. A revised site plan will return May 12 after the applicant reworks elements near the western property line.
Industrial tax exemption for Midland Compounding
The council gave AptarGroup a 12-year tax break for its new Ridgewood Drive facility but denied the same deal to Rankinen & Associates on Schuette Road. Tax exemptions trade short-term property tax revenue for hoped-for job growth, and the split vote shows the council is scrutinizing each deal individually.
Industrial tax exemption for Midland Compounding PM
Midland Compounding PM wants an industrial facilities tax exemption for a new 15,960-square-foot production building. The council set a July 13 public hearing — the company's tax break isn't approved yet.
Saginaw Road Streetscape Phase II Design
The council hired Moore & Bruggink for up to $559,500 to design the next streetscape phase from Dartmouth Street to Ashman Circle, funded by leftover Phase I money — though a former city engineer and another bidder spoke against the selection.
Downtown social district expansion
Rimamo, LLC at 101 E. Main Street was recommended for a state social district permit, letting patrons carry open alcohol in the designated downtown commons area.
New downtown-area Japanese steakhouse
A-1 Hibachi Japanese Steak House cleared the first hurdle toward serving alcohol at 2006 N. Saginaw Road with the council's recommendation.
Industrial tax exemptions sought by two manufacturers
Rankinen & Associates and AptarGroup are seeking industrial facilities tax exemptions for plant expansions totaling nearly $3 million in real property investment; hearings come January 26.