Midland · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in City of Midland public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
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.
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.