The Midland City Council held a budget workshop on August 13, 2025, focusing on several key initiatives aimed at improving public safety and community services. A significant topic of discussion was the potential partnership with Midland County to establish an Emergency Services District (ESD). This collaboration could enhance fire response times and lower insurance costs for residents, particularly in rural areas where current response times are longer.

Council members emphasized the importance of presenting data-driven arguments to the county, highlighting how an ESD could lead to reduced homeowner insurance premiums. The discussion included comparisons to other regions where ESDs have successfully contracted municipal fire departments, suggesting that this model could streamline operations and improve service delivery without competing for personnel.

Another major point was the completion of the Motorola technology implementation, which enhances communication between local emergency services, including police and fire departments. This upgrade is particularly crucial for effective responses during emergencies, as demonstrated by recent notifications sent to residents regarding traffic incidents.

The workshop also addressed staffing improvements within the fire department, including the hiring of a dedicated fire plans reviewer to expedite the review process for fire safety plans. This change aims to reduce delays in project approvals and enhance overall efficiency.

In addition, the council discussed ongoing public outreach efforts, including partnerships with local industries for safety drills and community engagement initiatives to promote animal adoption and responsible pet ownership. The health department reported an increase in patient visits as the busy back-to-school season approaches, indicating a need for continued support and resources.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to enhancing public safety, improving community services, and fostering partnerships that benefit residents. The council plans to continue exploring these initiatives as part of their long-term strategy for community development.