What to watch: The Midland City Council will meet on June 24 at 10 a.m.

Why it matters:
The council will consider the $124 million redevelopment plan for downtown’s Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) No. 2, consider enacting stricter grass height code enforcement, and hear updates from staff on city permitting and enterprise funds.

Key points:

  • TIRZ No. 2: Council will consider adopting the Final Project and Financing Plan for TIRZ No. 2, covering 449 acres in downtown Midland. A TIRZ sets aside rising property tax revenue for public improvements within the zone. The plan outlines $124.1 million in projects, including street, drainage, water, sewer upgrades, and pedestrian improvements. Economic development grants are allowed under Chapter 380 of the Texas Local Government Code.

  • Grass height ordinance: Council will hold a second reading of an ordinance to reduce the maximum allowed grass and weed height from 18 to 12 inches. Staff said the change would allow earlier city intervention on neglected properties, potentially lowering cleanup costs. Agricultural and large tracts remain exempt.

  • Federal grants: Council will hold a second hearing on how to allocate about $1.2 million in Community Development Block Grant funds for 2025–2026. Proposed recipients include Meals on Wheels, Salvation Army, Casa de Amigos, Habitat for Humanity, and first-time homebuyer programs. The city will post a draft plan for a 30-day public comment period before submission to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development by August 15.

  • Staff presentations: Council will hear three presentations:

    • Permitting updates: Elizabeth Triggs, Planning & Development Officer

    • Strategic efficiency plan: Taylor Novak, Chief of Staff

    • Enterprise fund overview: Christy Weakland, Finance Director