Texas’ Midland County voters to weigh $645 million proposal for new water system

(UI) — Voters in Midland County will soon decide whether to approve a $645 million bond that would fund a major overhaul of the region’s water infrastructure, according to NewsWest9.

The proposed investment from the Midland County Utility District would support construction of a reverse osmosis water treatment facility, more than 100 miles of pipeline, and new storage tanks across a growing 54,800-acre service area.

“Provide a safe and clean, reliable water source,” MCUD spokesperson Norman Ashton told NewsWest9. “So, the bond is designed to actually build out the infrastructure that is needed in order to accomplish that goal.”

The bond would be repaid over 40 years through property taxes. Homeowners wouldn’t see tax increases until 2028, with an estimated annual cost of $170 for a median home valued at $310,000, Ashton said.

Some small business owners have voiced concerns about transparency and long-term financial impacts. Jo Simmons, who owns Phoenix Auto & Lube, said she needs more clarity before supporting the plan.

"I don’t feel like we should agree to a bond when we don’t understand necessarily the rate of payback and how it all works, and who it will affect the most,” Simmons told NewsWest9.

Still, Simmons acknowledged the community could benefit from the upgrades.

“Water is the key,” Ashton told NewsWest9. “If you want growth, you have to have water, and that’s to me the entire key. What we’re trying to do is provide that safe, clean, reliable water source so that our district can continue to grow and prosper.”

Voters will head to the polls on May 3, 2025. Early voting is scheduled for April 22–29. More information is available at MCUD.org.

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