What happened: The Midland City Council met on April 22

Why it matters: The council reapproved an alcohol permit for Hot Shots bar on the condition they hire costly peace officers for weekends. They also voted on a contested zoning change in favor of Kent Distributors and greenlit a $24 million economic development deal with Cinergy.

By the numbers:

  • $24 million: Approved a Chapter 380 agreement with Cinergy.

  • $1.3 million: Approved the purchase of Neptune smart water meters.

  • $192,200: Approved to add a third TSA checkpoint at Midland International.

Key points:

  • Hot Shots: The Council approved the first reading of a Specific Use Designation (SUD) for Hot Shots Bar. The bar had operated without a valid SUD since 2017, an oversight unnoticed by both the owner and the city. A single objection by nearby BTA Oil Producers triggered a supermajority vote requirement. BTA Oil Producers raised concerns about property damage and employee safety near their offices. In response, Councilman Jack Ladd questioned why the company couldn’t fence off their property. A representative for BTA said it was cost-prohibitive. Police Chief Greg Snow said Hot Shots had 186 calls for service since 2020, compared to 340 at Double Bar and 152 at a nearby bar.

    “It doesn’t seem fair to require this bar to pay for peace officers when other nearby bars have had more police calls and aren’t held to the same standard,” Ladd said. Councilwoman Robin Poole pushed for daily police officer presence, while Councilwoman Amy Burkes supported at least weekend coverage. Mayor Lori Blong proposed a compromise by allowing certified security guards instead of sworn peace officers. However, Councilman John Burkholder insisted they hire peace officers. Council ultimately approved the SUD requiring two peace officers on Friday and Saturday nights. Council will re-evaluate the SUD in seven months.

  • Kent Distributors: Council considered a rezoning request from Kent Distributors to rezone 5.57 acres at Big Spring Street and Solomon Lane. The goal was to allow a minor automobile service garage. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval, but city staff suggested a different zone change instead.

    Fifteen objections were submitted from nearby residents, triggering a supermajority vote requirement. Residents raised concerns about traffic safety and left-turn conflicts at the intersection. Staff confirmed Big Spring Street and Solomon Lane will likely need a traffic signal. Council approved the rezoning, with Councilman Jack Ladd voting no.

  • Cinergy project: Council unanimously approved a $24 million Chapter 380 agreement with Cinergy to redevelop the former Regal Theaters. The location will include a movie theater, arcade, escape rooms, and electric go-karting

  • Ports to Plains: Council voted to join the Ports to Plains Alliance, supporting development of the future I-27 corridor from Laredo to Canada. Councilwomen Amy Burkes and Robin Poole voted no.

  • Water meter upgrades: Council approved $1.3 million to purchase Neptune smart water meters. The meters will enable real-time water tracking, better leak detection, and improved billing accuracy.

  • Airport TSA checkpoint: Council approved $192,200 to add a third TSA checkpoint at Midland International Air & Space Port. TSA determined that current checkpoints are running efficiently. However, they said the airport needs a third lane due to the high passenger volume.

  • City reserves rise: Comptroller Jerry Atkins reported a reserve balance of $58 million, equal to 120 days of operational expenses. Additionally, from 2023 to 2024, the city’s net position increased by 14%.