Midland · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in City of Midland public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Dial-A-Ride Bus Purchase
A new light-duty cutaway bus is up for purchase to keep the Dial-A-Ride transit service running for riders who depend on it.
Valley Drive Pump Station backup generator
The Valley Drive pump station is the city's backup drinking water supply during power outages. A new dedicated generator, backed by $600,000 in federal EPA money, will make sure water keeps flowing when the lights go out.
Valley Lift Station flood protection
The Valley Lift Station is a key piece of the sewer system, and the upgrade will protect it to the 500-year floodplain — funded largely through MEDC grant money.
Stormwater Improvement Projects Change Orders
The city is putting $1 million back into the Barstow Woods stormwater project, which was pulled from the budget during a 2025 amendment but still needs doing because of failing infrastructure. Fixing this helps prevent localized flooding problems.
Sewer line dispute at 725 S. Saginaw Road
A damaged sanitary sewer line crossing the auto repair garage site has left businesses at 712 Cambridge Street without sewer service, and the property owners haven't reached an agreement on repairs. The city says it's a private dispute, but it's complicating the site plan review.
Larkin Township water service agreement
A new water service agreement with Larkin Charter Township was approved, with one resident speaking against it at the meeting.
Water Reclamation Emergency Electrical Repair
A main power line at the sewer plant failed, and the city paid $98,565 for emergency repairs to keep sanitary sewer service running — electrical redundancy matters when a constant power supply is required.
New water and sewer rates
New 2026-27 water and sewer rates got first readings, including a $96.38 monthly opt-out charge for property owners who don't disconnect footing drain connections. Final adoption is expected April 27 — expect higher utility bills starting July 1.
Barstow Woods stormwater project funding
A $1 million budget amendment to restore funding for the Barstow Woods stormwater project goes to a public hearing March 23. The project was identified as a priority due to failing infrastructure.
Emerson and Wyman pump station flood mitigation
The city is spending about $70,000 more to fully engineer flood-proofing upgrades at the Wyman and Emerson pump stations, paid from 2020 flood disaster recovery funds.