What to watch: The Midland County Commissioners Court will meet Sept. 16 to give final approval to the $244 million 2025–26 budget and the new property tax rate. They’ll also take up appointments for the county fire marshal and interim library director.

Key points:

  • Budget and tax rate: Commissioners should approve the $244 million county budget and tax rate on second and final reading. The plan reduces the property tax rate, and most homeowners should see about a 6% drop in their bills even with rising property values.

  • County fire marshal: The court will discuss and take action on appointing a fire marshal, the official who enforces fire codes, investigates fires, and coordinates with local departments. While the Midland Fire Department provides service across the county, the city alone pays for its operations.

  • Interim library director: The court will also act on appointing an interim director for the Midland County Public Library system. The position opened after the court dismissed Director Debbie Garza in August, who had led the system since 2019. At that time, commissioners named Julie Pearson interim director. Commissioners discussed the dismissal in executive session and gave no public explanation.

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