Midlothian City Council met Nov. 10, 2026, hearing routine business and multiple land-use proposals, including a contentious rezoning for Eastside Village (Walnut Grove & US 287) that drew 40 public speakers and was denied; council also approved several site plans, a Chapter 380 agreement, and a one-year downtown valet pilot grant.

Discussion Points

•Acute downtown parking shortages during construction and while new parking arrives; need for short‑term mitigation.
•Agreement captures tax revenue otherwise reported outside city limits when materials are purchased offsite.
•Applicant stressed staggered pick‑up/drop‑off to avoid queuing.
•Concerns about enforceability and phasing dominated council questioning.
•Council asked staff to create firmer deadlines and reporting requirements for future funding requests.
•Council corrected contract dates and approved unanimously.
•Council debated whether the pavers/replacement should wait until full street replacement but prioritized pedestrian safety.
•Council requested measurable success criteria and reporting obligations.
•Council wanted certainty on maintenance/parking responsibility in apparent right‑of‑way.
•Council wanted confirmation that drainage and signals will be addressed before permits are issued.
•DBA and operator responded to concerns about insurance, free service, and tracking.
•Decision: approve change order.
•Decision: approve SUP pending executed encroachment agreement.
•Eligibility under hotel‑motel categories confirmed; DBA reported approx. 2,500 attendees.
•Large public turnout (40 speakers) raised traffic, noise, drainage and buffer concerns.
•Staff and applicant described mitigation measures including delivery-hours limits, wall and access changes.
•Staff confirmed the change order remains within the project budget and does not touch contingency.
•Staff described indoor‑only paintless dent repair scope; applicant reiterated appointment‑only model.
•Staff gave cumulative receipts and city net revenue figures to date.

Decisions

•Agreement approved with date correction.
•Authorized reimbursement up to $9,000 with documentation and improved SOPs to follow.
•Change order approved 6–1.
•Council approved one‑year pilot grant with reporting expectations.
•Council denied PD 188 (rezoning) by vote 6–1.
•Detailed site plan and variances approved 4–3.
•SUP approved with condition; encroachment agreement required.

Directions

•DBA must provide receipts before reimbursement; staff will produce policy/guideline updates.
•DBA to deliver six‑month and 12‑month usage and financial reports; explore private cost sharing if pilot shows benefit.
•Engineering and drainage plans must be submitted and approved prior to building permits.
•If applicant resubmits, include enforceable phasing, binding buffer/wall construction prior to store opening, and updated traffic/access approvals from TxDOT.
•Public Works to coordinate timing with contractor and report schedule.
•Staff to monitor reporting and compliance under the new term.
•Staff to prepare encroachment agreement for council approval prior to issuance of permits.

Nov

City Council

Midlothian City Council met Nov. 10, 2026. Council approved several routine items and site plans, granted a change order for street lighting and pavers, heard multiple rezoning and development requests (including a contentious proposal for a 181,128 sq ft supercenter at Walnut Grove & US‑287 that drew dozens of public speakers and was denied), and approved a one‑year pilot downtown valet program using an economic development grant.

Discussion Points

•Applicant offered infrastructure commitments including signals and turn lanes; staff found proposal consistent with future land use with conditions.
•Appointment‑only business model limits daily vehicle turnover and outdoor storage.
•City will fund a one‑year pilot to address immediate parking shortages; several councilmembers wanted stronger private sector buy‑in.
•Parking partly occurs in gravel in city right‑of‑way; council required encroachment agreement to define maintenance and access.
•Residents stressed traffic, noise, light and drainage impacts; concerns that residential buffer might never be built.
•Valet operator will use off‑site lots (railway lot and other private lots) and carry insurance; tipping is optional and signage will indicate complimentary service.

Decisions

•Grant approved 4–2 with one abstention; one‑year pilot authorized.
•Motion to deny PD‑188 passed 6–1; rezoning request denied.
•SUP approved 7–0 pending encroachment agreement.

Directions

•Council expects enforceable conditions in any resubmittal (timing of buffers, delivery limits, roadway construction guarantees).
•DBA to provide six‑month and year‑end reports with vehicle counts, peak hour breakdown and financial reconciliation.
•Staff to draft/return encroachment agreement; SUP effective upon execution.
•Staff to pursue private cost‑share models for subsequent years if pilot succeeds.

Nov

City Council 11/10/2026

Midlothian City Council met Nov. 10, 2026. The council approved several routine and development items, denied a proposed PD188 rezoning for a 181,128 sq. ft. supercenter at Walnut Grove/US‑287 after a lengthy public hearing with about 40 speakers, and authorized a one‑year downtown valet pilot funded by a $101,400 380 grant.

Discussion Points

•Applicant pledged roadway improvements, signal funding and a masonry wall.
•Compatibility of the use with surrounding zoning; appointment‑only operations and indoor storage limits.
•Construction reduced on‑street parking; downtown businesses requested relief.
•Council asked whether the contingency would be impacted; staff said no.
•Council debated private match vs. full city subsidy and required measurable success criteria.
•Council debated whether the work could be deferred, but supported targeted safety upgrades.
•Council sought enforceable timing/phasing guarantees for residential buffers and road improvements.
•Gravel parking between street and property line and whether a right‑of‑way encroachment agreement is needed.
•Intent to allow smaller office users, medical office and a daycare; parking and trash concerns flagged for later review.
•Phasing will be managed through detailed site plan and final plats.
•Residents raised traffic, noise, delivery hours, drainage and compatibility concerns.

Decisions

•Approve change order 6–1.
•One‑year, $101,400 Chapter 380 grant approved with reporting and six‑month review.
•PD amendment approved 7–0.
•Rezoning denied by vote 6–1.
•SEP approved with encroachment agreement pending.

Directions

•Applicant may revise and reapply with additional written guarantees and phasing schedule.
•DBA to provide operator contract, insurance and weekly utilization reports; city to receive six‑month status update.
•Proceed with the change order; schedule work with ongoing park construction.
•Require detailed site‑plan review for each phase to resolve parking sizes, access and trash mitigation.
•Staff to require explicit, binding conditions if application is resubmitted.
•Staff to return with a right‑of‑way encroachment agreement before finalizing permits.

Nov

Commissioners Court

Ellis County Commissioners Court met to approve routine consent items, terminate a janitorial contract for cause and adopt an in-house interim plan, approve reductions to architectural fees for an elections office remodel, amend local hospital payment-rate rules, and authorize a tax anticipation note sale; an item on building security was discussed in executive session with no action taken.

Discussion Points

•Advisers solicited 12 bids; recommended the lowest-cost proposal to reduce budgetary impact.
•Architectural fees reduced and Matterport survey will start the programming work.
•County staff said the underlying rate did not change and there is no cost to the county; the change enables local hospitals to access federal funds.
•Facilities proposed an in-house contingency plan reallocating current custodians.
•Item 3.3 concerns potential deployment or funding of security personnel, devices, or audits at the Central Building and adjacent facilities.
•Item 3.3 was handled in executive session under Texas Government Code security and legal exemptions.
•Items and VINs listed on agenda for surplus declaration.
•Project shifted from ground-up to remodel after purchase of Jefferson Street property.
•Purchasing documented repeated staffing and performance deficiencies by Southern Cleaning Service, Inc.
•Purchasing recommended auction to return money to county budget.
•Purpose: reimburse purchase of Jefferson Street property and fund Phase I renovations.
•Questions were raised about whether the in-house approach should be temporary pending a new RFP or permanent with a budget amendment.
•State HHSC changed calculation requirements for LPPF; the county must split inpatient and outpatient calculations.

Decisions

•Court approved Arqitex fee amendments.
•Court approved both the implementing order for rates and the local rule adoption.
•Court approved surplus declarations and auction authorization.
•Court approved termination for cause and in-house interim coverage.
•Court authorized issuance and sale of the tax anticipation note.
•No action taken on item 3.3 in open session.

Directions

•Adopt implementing orders and create new LPPF bank account for mandatory payments as described in item 3.2.
•Proceed with recommended bid and submit documents to AG for validation; close on Dec. 8 if approved.
•Proceed with remodeling design work and return with programming outcomes.
•Purchasing to proceed with auction and deposit proceeds.
•Staff to implement in-house coverage and monitor workload; return if additional FTE or an RFP is recommended.

Nov

Commissioners Court 11/10/2026

At a regular Ellis County Commissioners Court meeting, the court unanimously approved terminating the county janitorial contract with Southern Cleaning Service and instructed staff to provide interim, in‑house cleaning; approved surplus vehicle auctions; reduced architect fees for an elections-building remodel; adopted amended local provider participation fund rules and rates; and authorized a tax‑anticipation note sale to fund the Jefferson Street purchase and renovations. The court held an executive session on pending TCEQ litigation and security matters and took no action on security deployment today.

Discussion Points

•Advisors modeled conservative growth assumptions and said debt service impact on tax rate would be minimal.
•After reconvening, no motion was made to take public action on security deployment.
•Architect to begin with Matterport interior scan to inform programming.
•Bond counsel to submit to Texas AG for review before closing.
•Change from ground‑up construction to remodel reduced required scope and fees.
•Commissioners discussed possible line‑item transfers and adding an FTE.
•Court entered executive session under Texas Government Code §§551.071 and 551.076.
•Dustin Haynes presented an in‑house contingency plan and comparative cost figures.
•E.J. Harbin described repeated staffing failures by SCSI and documented deficiencies.
•Financial advisor reported 12 proposals and recommended lowest cost proposal from Regions Bank at 3.98% fixed.
•Item 3.3 cross‑posted for executive session due to sensitive security information.
•Items and VINs were read from the posted agenda.
•Public hearing held with no speakers.
•Purchasing will auction and return proceeds to budget.
•State HHSC changed calculation requirements to split inpatient and outpatient revenue; the rate itself did not change.

Decisions

•Adopt LPPF rule and implement amended FY2027 rates.
•Approve Arqitex fee amendments.
•Authorize tax note issuance and accept recommended bid.
•Declare items surplus and approve auction.
•No public action taken on item 3.3.
•Terminate SCSI contract for cause; implement interim in‑house cleaning.

Directions

•Facilities to implement interim in‑house cleaning and monitor workload.
•Open new bank account for mandatory LPPF payments.
•Proceed with orders to implement amended rates and rule.
•Proceed with purchase agreement and engagement letter, submit to AG's office, plan for Dec. 8 closing.
•Proceed with the reduced‑fee scope and start work.
•Purchasing/legal to finalize termination documentation.
•Purchasing to proceed with auction process.
•Staff to report back on programming and potential conditioned storage needs.

Oct

City Council-2026-10-27

City Council meeting (Midlothian) on 2026-10-27 covering stormwater reporting, multiple land-use public hearings (including a contested 22‑lot rezoning on Plainview Road), a large church site plan and parking variance, water/wastewater rate changes, public-works capital projects, and several unanimous equipment and personnel actions.

Discussion Points

•Applicant pledged drainage studies, detention ponds and CC&R fencing to address neighbor concerns.
•Applicant presented internal counts and argued for a higher parking ratio based on church operations and volunteer use.
•Chief explained simulator advantages (fast turnaround, controlled scenarios).
•Clark summarized MS4 minimum control measures and BMPs; staff noted the program's five‑year cycle and annual reporting due March 30.
•Condition assessment found 11 anomalies on existing 24‑inch pipeline; rather than repair in place, staff recommends new alignment in new easement through open space.
•Consent agenda routine approvals; multiple capital design and procurement items discussed earlier in the agenda (Hayes Road, pipeline design, PLC replacements).
•Council asked about project drivers and monitoring; staff outlined planned Taman expansion, pipeline replacements and storage projects.
•Council asked whether the city inspects privately maintained detention ponds; staff said agreements exist and inspections are being organized with certified public works personnel.
•Council confirmed the prop would supplement not replace Class A burns.
•Council negotiated ordinance amendments limiting front garages and increasing rear setbacks.
•Executive session items related to real estate acquisition and personnel were acted on in open session with required motions.
•Legal constraints disallow a PPIA outside city limits; project will be a city bid project funded by water impact fees.
•Motion to approve as presented failed; an alternative motion capped parking at 275 spaces.
•Neighbors said the proposal departs from the comp plan's country module and raises runoff and traffic concerns.
•Plant PLCs are around year 13 of expected 10–15 year life; admin PLC trips have caused plant downtime.
•Rate study recommended phased increases to cover capital projects and TRA obligations.
•Staff compared local churches and fire marshal seating; councilors expressed concerns about excessive paving and traffic impacts.
•Staff explained protest threshold changes and subdivision ordinance enforcement.
•Staff proposes switching to Allen‑Bradley controllers and leveraging MDA contract integrator for speed and reliability.

Decisions

•Consent approved 7–0; Lot 8 purchase approved 6–0; personnel merit increases approved 7–0.
•Council approved reimbursement and replacement (7–0).
•Council approved the design amendment and direction to proceed (7–0).
•No regulatory action required now; program implementation and annual report to continue.
•Ordinance adopting multi‑year rate increases approved 7–0.
•Rezoning to PD‑193 approved 4–3 with new ordinance language; annexation approved contingent on the rezoning.
•Simulator purchase approved 7–0.
•Site plan approved with parking cap of 275 spaces (4–3).

Directions

•Coordinate replacement with MDA construction schedule; procure spares for quicker recovery.
•Council to receive final plats and CC&Rs before building permits are issued.
•Proceed with contract execution and project schedules; complete Lot 8 purchase and implement payroll changes.
•Proceed with extended design, prepare bid documents and fund construction using water impact fees.
•Procure and install simulator; chief to advise council when ready for tour.
•Staff to continue development of an inventory and schedule for detention pond inspections and include findings in the annual MS4 report.
•Staff to ensure drainage and subdivision standards are enforced at plat/site-plan review; applicant to file CC&Rs and final plats.
•Staff to monitor parking demand and accept return requests if additional parking is needed.
•Staff will provide annual assessments and can recommend adjustments if costs shift.

Oct

City Council

Midlothian City Council met Oct. 27, 2026. The council received an MS4/stormwater presentation, approved routine consent items, approved a PD amendment for a recreation center, unanimously annexed property and then approved a companion rezoning after heavy public comment (4–3), approved a detailed site plan for a 7,632-sq-ft place of worship with a reduced parking cap (275 spaces), authorized several public-works contracts and capital purchases, and approved personnel and real-estate actions following executive session.

Discussion Points

•Applicant offered drainage studies, fence and HOA/CC&R commitments and design amenities to offset density differences.
•Applicant presented internal counts and peer comparisons to justify additional parking.
•Background on 2021 rate plan and rationale for updated capital needs.
•Consultant reviewed MS4 requirements, six minimum control measures, and 5-year cycle.
•Council debated whether county development could proceed without city conditions if rezoning were denied, creating enforcement trade-offs.
•Council discussed sharing with adjacent commercial parking and reducing initial paved area to preserve green space.
•Council may revisit the automatic annual adjustments if costs moderate.
•Council requested clarity on inspection schedules for privately maintained detention ponds.
•Mountain Creek/TRA expansion impacts and the city’s relative share of costs; Taman WTP expansion and pipeline replacements cited as drivers.
•Neighborhood opposition centered on density, traffic safety on Plainview Road, runoff and loss of rural character.
•Notices mailed and signs posted; staff reported no correspondence in opposition in the official noticing area.
•Pipeline condition assessment found 11 anomalies on existing 24-inch raw-water pipeline; staff proposed new alignment in open-space easement and to abandon the problematic easement after tie-in.
•PLC (programmable logic controller) failures at Auger WTP are causing intermittent shutdowns; staff proposed replacing PLCs with more universal hardware (Allen Bradley) and to procure spares to reduce downtime.
•Real-estate and personnel matters were discussed in executive session under Texas Government Code provisions; open-session motions reflected agreed action items.
•Safety features include a dead-man switch for immediate shutoff; the building can still be used for Class A burns when needed.
•Simulator reduces turnaround vs. Class A burns and allows controlled scenario training.
•Site is ~47 acres and was part of the 2021 bond package; staff reviewed surrounding zoning and found consistency with the comprehensive plan.
•Staff identified 32 city facilities and the service center as high priority.
•Traffic, peak-hour overlap and gateway aesthetics informed the substitute motion.

Decisions

•Adopt ordinance with scheduled increases; 3% retail water, 5% wastewater as discussed.
•Approve detailed site plan and parking variance with cap of 275 paved spaces (4–3).
•Approved PD amendment to allow recreation center (7–0).
•Approve PD193 rezoning with amended ordinance language (4–3).
•Approve procurement and installation (7–0).
•Authorize Atwell LLC amendment, authorize reimbursement to MDA/PLC replacement planning, and approve Hayes Road engineering agreement.
•Authorize purchase and approve 4% merit increases.

Directions

•Applicant to present CC&Rs and final site plan for administrative review per the subdivision ordinance and PD conditions.
•Applicant to provide final site-plan documents reflecting the 275-space cap.
•Chief to notify council when simulator is operational.
•City manager to finalize purchase and staff to implement payroll changes for approved merit increases.
•Continue to implement BMPs and prepare annual MS4 report due 03/30/2027.
•Coordinate PLC replacement via MDA contract change order and stock spare PLCs to reduce lead time.
•Implement rates per adopted ordinance and conduct annual financial reviews to confirm assumptions and adjust as needed.
•Proceed with design amendments, finalize easements (Ash Grove property signed), and prepare bid packages for construction.
•Proceed with implementation per the approved PD and future site-plan and lease steps.
•Procure simulator under Sourcewell or similar cooperative contract and schedule installation.
•Staff to compile an inventory of detention/retention ponds and develop inspection scheduling.
•Staff to confirm final impervious-cover calculations and stormwater controls per PD requirements.
•Staff to draft ordinance language consistent with the condition amendments (garage orientation, rear setbacks, split-rail fence buffer and landscaping requirements).

Oct

Commissioners Court-2026-10-27

Ellis County Commissioners Court met to consider multiple land-use variances and replats, award several road-material and IT contracts, approve release/acceptance of performance and maintenance bonds, and discuss a proposed regional animal control center (court took no action and scheduled a workshop).

Discussion Points

•Bids opened and multiple vendors recommended to ensure supply if individual suppliers are unavailable.
•Commissioner expressed concern about erosive conditions and downstream flow rates based on USGS estimates.
•Commissioners expressed desire for cost projections and contractual protections for the county.
•IT renewal described as security and monitoring to be done in open court only at a high level.
•Jordan Meadows final plat status and bond amounts.
•Public commenters urged spay-and-neuter programs and satellite options while a permanent shelter is built.
•Staff and legal flagged potential conflicts between draft agreement and existing Compass grant conditions.
•Staff recommended replacement of performance bond with two maintenance bonds.
•The applicant lacks public road frontage; two lots would have frontage, one would rely on a private road.

Decisions

•Court approved bond release and acceptance.
•Court approved the awards and authorized contract execution.
•Court took no action on the proposed partnership.
•Court took no action on the variance pending study.

Directions

•Authorize county judge to execute contracts after final legal review.
•Record bond release and acceptance; monitor required technical conditions.
•Schedule a public workshop to review budget and governance before returning the item to court.
•Staff to commission a drainage and erosion mitigation study and report back to court.
•Staff to draft a new/revised interlocal agreement consistent with grant conditions and county requirements.

Oct

Commissioners Court

The Ellis County Commissioners Court met in the commissioners courtroom to consider land‑use variances and replats, several purchasing bids for road materials and IT services, release of large performance bonds for Jordan Meadows, and a proposed regional animal‑control partnership with the cities of Waxahachie and Ennis; the court moved to take no action on the shelter contract and scheduled a workshop to refine terms.

Discussion Points

•Commissioner cited USGS estimates and raised concern about downstream impacts and erosion from significant storm events.
•Court treated the item as routine purchasing business.
•Legal review raised possible conflicts with the county's Compass funding agreement; commissioners are concerned about loss of county control over design/operations and the county's $15 million commitment.
•Public commenters urged inclusion of spay/neuter funding, interim satellite shelters and transparency around interlocal terms.
•Staff agreed to delay action and perform the requested study.
•Staff cited security rationale for limited public detail and described multi‑year pricing.
•Staff presented the bond amounts and rationale tied to final plat conditions.
•Staff recommended multiple awards to mitigate supplier outages and delivery delays; commissioners recounted past shortages and supported diversification.

Decisions

•Approve multiple awards for RFB2026 series and authorize contract execution.
•No action on the current draft; workshop scheduled.
•Release performance bond; accept two maintenance bonds.
•Renewal approved.
•Variance held (no action) pending study.

Directions

•Commission staff to commission a drainage and erosion mitigation study and report back.
•County Development to process bond replacement paperwork.
•IT to finalize contract after legal review.
•Prepare cost and governance materials for workshop.
•Purchasing to finalize award lists and contracts; Road & Bridge to prioritize vendors by location and availability.
•Staff to draft revised contract maintaining Compass compliance and protecting county control; schedule a public workshop after the election.

Oct

Midlothian Community Development Corporation-2026-10-22

The Midlothian Community Development Corporation held its regular meeting on Oct. 22, 2026. The board heard a public hearing on a $1 million grant request from Leasing Impressions Commercial LLC for a downtown redevelopment at 301 N. 8th St.; public comment raised concerns about subsidizing an out‑of‑town LLC. The board deferred the request to the next meeting and approved several routine items including financials, committee rosters and a drainage feasibility study.

Discussion Points

•Administrative assistant announced departure and new position within city government.
•Applicant requested $1,000,000 to match $1.5M private investment for downtown redevelopment at 301 N. 8th St.
•Board questioned financial return, tenant readiness, parking and lease encumbrances (Family Dollar lease).
•Combine grants and personnel to reduce scheduling burdens and streamline policy development.
•Confirm membership and maintain three-subcommittee structure.
•Executive director reviewed priorities and upcoming events.
•Key figures presented: cash and investments $16,617,525; revenues $12,215,546; expenditures $8,667,455; hotel sale $3.3M; commitments ~$11.16M.
•Nomination process and single nominee accepted.
•Quote presented for combined drainage study and survey of MCDC-owned parcels: cost $83,000.
•Resident Lisa Healy argued the application primarily benefits an out‑of‑town LLC and conflicts with program timing and priorities.
•Staff noted time savings using a firm already familiar with nearby detention work.
•Staff presented balance sheet and income statement for Aug. 31, 2026.

Decisions

•Board approved the $83,000 agreement by voice vote.
•Committee rosters approved by voice vote.
•Public hearing deferred to next month; no funding decision made.
•Rusty elected secretary by voice vote.

Directions

•Staff to coordinate recognition and transition planning.
•Staff to evaluate eligibility under project category and return analysis to next meeting.
•Staff to execute agreement and proceed with survey/study.
•Staff to provide detailed breakout of outstanding commitments at next quarterly report.
•Staff to update committee schedule and notify members.

Oct

Midlothian Community Development Corporation

The Midlothian Community Development Corporation heard a public hearing on a $1,000,000 façade/revitalization grant request for 301 N. 8th Street from Leasing Impressions Commercial LLC, received a financial report, approved committee rosters and a drainage feasibility study, elected a new board secretary and heard that a long‑time administrative staffer is leaving. Several board members asked for more information and the grant hearing was deferred to next month.

Discussion Points

•Administrative assistant announced departure and accepted thanks from board.
•Applicant requested $1,000,000 for a $2.5M project; applicant expects 10,000 sq ft of retail/office and 24 additional parking spots.
•Board confirmed appointment by voice vote.
•Board expressed concern about tenant commitments, sales tax payback period and alignment with program priorities.
•Board members reviewed proposed rosters and discussed quorum and workload.
•Executive director distributed workshop priority packets and reminded board of event dates.
•Members asked for additional detail on debt service and quarterly balances.
•Nominations opened and Rusty was proposed and seconded.
•Public commenter argued the applicant is an out‑of‑town LLC already investing private capital and that the subsidy may not be merited.
•Rationale to combine grants with personnel to reduce outside meeting demands and better coordinate policy and grant review.
•Staff noted prior nearby work may reduce time/cost and that professional services procurement did not require multiple quotes for this service type.
•Staff presented cash/investment, revenues, expenditures and outstanding commitments.
•TNP quote is for $83,000 to conduct drainage study and survey.

Decisions

•Contract approved to proceed with drainage feasibility study.
•Public hearing deferred to next month; no grant award made at this meeting.
•Rusty appointed secretary.
•Subcommittee structure changed and rosters approved.

Directions

•Chair and staff to distribute updated rosters and schedules.
•Staff to compile financing scenarios, tenant outreach status, and potential stipulations for the grant if approved.
•Staff to coordinate coverage for administrative duties and arrange a recognition for departing staff.
•Staff to execute contract and coordinate scope and schedule with the consultant and city engineering.
•Staff to provide the debt service balance and quarterly packaged reports at the next meeting.

Oct

Planning and Zoning Commission 10/20/2026

Planning & Zoning Commission met on 2026-10-20 to review recent council items, approve several plats and site plans, amend PD27 to allow a recreation center and YMCA use, consider amendments to PD42 for commercial uses, and to hear a contested rezoning request for Plainview Road that the commission denied after extensive public comment.

Discussion Points

•Applicant described staffing ratios, ages served (0–5), and staggered drop‑off to limit peak stacking.
•Applicant for Mockingbird Lane can expand garage to meet 600‑sq‑ft requirement if commission requests.
•Applicant said lot sizing and product mix reflect market demand and site constraints; offered potential design concessions.
•Concept plan includes smaller central buildings and a 24,000‑sq‑ft office along 14th Street; six access points and interior parking proposed.
•Development agreement and right‑of‑way participation for Don Floyd Drive discussed; engineering review needed.
•No speakers within 200 feet registered opposition.
•Paintless dent repair SUP tailored to exclude painting and sanding and requires indoor work only.
•Parking variance requested for two additional spaces; staff found parking and circulation acceptable with proposed drop‑off procedures.
•PD27 amendment would add recreation center as allowed use; staff tied request to 2021 bond authorization and lease agreements.
•Plat complies with subdivision ordinance; encroachment agreement pending.
•Residents argued the proposal is denser than the country‑module recommendation and expressed safety and drainage concerns.
•Staff recommends approval contingent on agreement.

Decisions

•Amendment approved 6–0; next steps are detailed site plan submittals.
•Both items approved 6–0.
•Commission approved amendment and forwarded to Council.
•Final plat approved by commission 6–0, conditional on agreement.
•Motion to recommend denial passed 5–1; recommendation forwarded to City Council.
•Site plan and variances approved 6–0.

Directions

•Applicants to submit building permits and follow SUP conditions.
•Commission asked staff to work with the applicant on drainage, green‑belt buffering and possible lot size changes before any future resubmittal.
•Forward to City Council for approval of the encroachment/maintenance agreement.
•Prepare Council packet with lease documentation and related maps.
•Proceed with civil review; applicant to coordinate TxDOT signal and turn‑lane construction timelines.
•Require detailed site plan review prior to Council action; negotiate development agreement for roadway improvements.

Oct

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Midlothian Planning & Zoning Commission met Oct. 20, 2026, to review staff updates, approve multiple site plans and specific-use permits, and conduct several public hearings. Commissioners denied a developerled rezoning for Stonebrook Estates after extensive resident opposition about density, traffic and flood risk; several other rezonings and permits were approved unanimously.

Discussion Points

•Applicant confirmed ability to modify garage footprint to meet code if needed.
•Applicant representative expressed enthusiasm for local swim teams and community uses.
•Applicant representatives described drop-off and pick-up operations and referenced national standards for staggered drop-off times.
•Commissioners asked staff and the city engineer to review drainage and buffering options.
•Conceptual plan revises building arrangement with more perimeter landscaping and internal parking.
•Developer said market demand favors ~1-acre lots and offered design concessions for views and trees.
•No public comment; staff recommended approval conditioned on Council action.
•No public objections were received.
•Residents argued the proposal is denser than the country-module guidance and would increase traffic, lighting and runoff.
•Staff described existing bond authorization and leases.
•Staff described the increase in dwelling size and variances requested.
•Staff explained the two variances (parking and sign) and the site's building elevations and landscape plans.
•Staff identified the need for a recorded maintenance and encroachment agreement with the MUD district for Heirloom Road.
•Staff noted the city is negotiating a development agreement to participate in Don Floyd widening.
•Staff read the tailored definition and the list of prohibited activities to clarify the scope of work allowed.

Decisions

•Final plat approved with condition.
•Motion to deny rezoning passed 5-1; recommendation of denial forwarded to City Council as applicable.
•PD27 amendment approved by Planning & Zoning.
•PD42 amendment approved by the commission.
•Rezoning and PD approved unanimously.
•Site plan and two variances approved unanimously.
•Specific-use permit approved unanimously.

Directions

•Applicant to proceed with building and business permits consistent with SUP conditions.
•Developer may revise the plan and return to commission if desired.
•Proceed to civil engineering review and coordinate signal/turn-lane construction timelines with TxDOT and city engineering.
•Proceed to permitting and finalize any design changes required by code.
•Proceed with permit and lease finalizations as required.
•Recordation of final plat contingent on Council approval of the required agreement.
•Require detailed site plans and coordinate development agreement terms with city engineering.
•Staff to coordinate drainage review with City Engineer and report back before any further action.

Oct

City Council

Midlothian City Council on Oct. 13, 2026 approved two plan-development amendments — one allowing veterinary/pet retail uses at PD 165 and another authorizing Google Railport campus phases 5–6 and an on-site generation (OSG) plant for PD 106 — heard public comment on the city bond and reviewed the Midlothian Economic Development annual report, made appointments, and recessed into executive session.

Discussion Points

•Applicant requested a 6-foot driveway spacing exception and described the OSG as temporary bridge power.
•Consent agenda items were presented as retained and approved by a single motion.
•Council questioned whether drive-through restaurants should be allowed outside the previously approved phase 3; language was restored limiting such uses.
•Council requested clarification on tax abatements, water use, closed-loop cooling and noise decibel measures.
•He cited an overrun on the police station and asked for clearer data on tax impacts from large projects.
•Highlighted projects at Railport and downtown, and programs for small-business support.
•Nominating subcommittee recommended two appointments which the council approved.
•Staff noted incentives are performance-based and subject to annual certification.
•Staff recommended requiring building-to-perimeter sidewalk connections before certificate of occupancy to avoid early construction damage to sidewalks.
•White criticized the lack of livestreaming for the bond town hall and the absence of renderings and detailed cost information in the bond materials.

Decisions

•Consent agenda approved 6–0; appointments approved 6–0.
•Council approved PD 106 amendment (6–0).
•Council approved PD 165 amendment 5–1.
•No council action required; presentation only.
•No formal council action recorded during public comment; issues remain open for follow-up.

Directions

•Add back the phase 3 drive-through limitation to the ordinance language.
•Applicant to follow TCEQ permitting and city site-plan and noise mitigation requirements.
•City Clerk to finalize appointments and publish notices.
•Council referred residents to the bond website and existing materials; staff to note request for greater transparency.
•Require SUP review for operational impacts (noise, odors, screening).
•Staff to confirm abatement structure and provide additional documentation as requested.
•Staff to post the packet online and provide requested abatement/wage details to council.

Oct

City Council 10/13/2026

Midlothian City Council approved zoning amendments including a Google data center expansion with on-site power generation, amended a PD to allow veterinary/pet-related uses by SUP, heard public comment on a proposed $200 million bond, received an economic development report, and made several appointments.

Discussion Points

•Applicant requested 6-foot spacing waiver from 330-ft driveway spacing standard and proposed sound wall for noise mitigation
•Clarify sidewalk timing: before C of O preferred
•Concerns about prior cost overruns (police station)
•Council sought details on closed-loop cooling and tax abatement terms
•Differentiate pet shop, feed store and veterinarian uses to limit outdoor pens and impacts
•Lack of livestreaming for bond town hall
•Midlothian Business Academy programming and expansion-course offerings
•Missing project renderings and insufficient bond website detail
•New projects at Railport (Sanderson Pipe) and planned acreage near the airport for small industrial uses
•No items removed from consent
•Nominating subcommittee interviewed candidates and recommended Chris Terry (ZBA) and Yasmine Barn Jones (MDA)
•Performance-based incentive agreements and monitoring
•Restore language limiting large drive-through restaurants
•Staff recommended approval citing comprehensive plan compatibility

Decisions

•Appointments approved 6–0
•Consent agenda approved 6–0
•PD 106 amendment approved 6–0
•PD 165 amendment approved 5–1 with staff conditions

Directions

•Add language back to section b2 re: drive-through restrictions
•Applicant to pursue SUPs and design permits
•City Secretary to complete appointment paperwork
•Require sidewalks prior to certificate of occupancy
•Staff to post the annual report packet online and provide additional financial breakdowns upon request
•Staff to verify TCEQ permit status and noise/air-emissions controls for OSG

Oct

Commissioners Court 10/13/2026

Ellis County Commissioners Court met in Waxahachie to approve a consent agenda and unanimously authorize a sheriffs office build-out; the court also opened a public hearing on proposed amendments to the development master fee schedule, with no fee increases proposed.

Discussion Points

•Director Morris said the county is not proposing fee increases but will reorganize and move some fees to Exhibit B, and that the updates respond to an annual state authorization requirement.
•Sheriff Brad Norman described space constraints and presented two contractor bids, recommending the lower bid after reference checks.

Decisions

•Item A16 approved unanimously

Directions

•Authorization given to Sheriff Brad Norman to execute the build-out agreement.
•Public hearing opened; matter set for further consideration under action item 1.1.

Sep

Commissioners Court

Ellis County Commissioners Court met to handle routine consent items, hear presentations on local hospital funding, review multiple interlocal and personnel matters, and debate whether to revoke adoption of the 2024 International Fire Code; the court voted 4–1 to retain the code and scheduled a workshop for further review.

Discussion Points

•Commissioner Ponder expressed concerns about fee increases and effects on small businesses and requested more time to review.
•Fire Marshal Tim Birdwell urged retaining the 2024 International Fire Code to maintain public safety and consistent enforcement.
•General deductible raised to $100,000; wind/hail deductible is 2% of building value subject to $250,000 minimum.
•No public commenters signed up during the hearing.
•Other commissioners emphasized firefighter safety, modern hazards (data centers, batteries), and that amendments can be made later.
•Program does not use county general revenue; payments by hospitals unlock matching federal funds.
•Proposed rates: 6% net inpatient, 6% net outpatient for FY2027.
•Specific bond totals: $3,390,000 (Ellis Ranch Manor); ~$611,000 (Estates of Palmer); just over $288,000 (Thunder Ridge Phase 3).
•Staff reported inspections and recommended acceptance of infrastructure and replacement of performance bonds with maintenance bonds.
•Total premium $1,889,909.20; increase tied to new facility and claims history.

Decisions

•All three items approved unanimously.
•Motion to not revoke minute order 281.26 passed 4–1; code remains adopted.
•Renewal approved unanimously.
•Resolution approved unanimously.

Directions

•Adopt resolution setting the rate at 6% for FY2027 and notify participating hospitals.
•Allow commissioners to propose amendments after the workshop.
•Approve renewal and review future terms in next renewal cycle.
•Hold a public workshop to review the adopted code item-by-item.
•Record bond changes and monitor two‑year maintenance periods.

Sep

Ellis County Commissioners Court - September 29, 2026

Ellis County Commissioners Court opened with a proclamation for Ellis County Farm Heritage Day, approved several subdivision bond and infrastructure items, and set a 6% local provider participation payment rate. The court debated revoking its adoption of the 2024 International Fire Code but voted 4–1 to keep it and agreed to hold a workshop to consider amendments.

Discussion Points

•457(b) amendment required to administer IRS catch-up; one-time $300 fee.
•Commissioners asked about reimbursement timelines and impact on budget.
•Commissioners moved to approve each item after staff presentation.
•Commissioners worried about county paying salaries and expenses during deployments and long FEMA reimbursement timelines.
•Consultants explained program mechanics and emphasized no county general revenue is used; commissioners asked clarifying questions about participants and program history.
•Fire Marshal Birdwell argued revocation would cause enforcement and safety uncertainty; Commissioner Ponder requested revocation to permit additional review; other commissioners stressed safety and the ability to later amend the code.
•Personnel procedures formalize existing practice for transparency.
•Premium increase tied to expanded coverage and prior hail/other claims; deductible increases explained.
•Rafael described ASPCA disaster services as free for declared disasters; commissioners saw reimbursement language in backup and asked legal to confirm.
•Rafael: participation voluntary and requires training; reimbursement depends on incident declaration and FEMA involvement.
•Retiree premium increase absorption to avoid disrupting retirees amid provider network changes; estimated additional county cost approx. $69,656.10.
•Staff confirmed required work (earthwork, drainage, pavement) was complete and recommended acceptance of maintenance bonds.
•The court preferred clarity about county obligations before approving the MOU.

Decisions

•Approve 457(b) amendment, absorb retiree premium increase, and adopt written personnel procedures.
•Approve insurance renewal with revised deductibles.
•Approve release/acceptance actions for Ellis Ranch Manor, Estates of Palmer, and Thunder Ridge Phase 3.
•Motion to not revoke minute order 281.26 passed 4–1; workshop to be scheduled.
•No action taken; item deferred for further review.
•No action taken on A4; item to return to a future meeting.
•Set mandatory payment rate at 6% for FY2027.

Directions

•HR to execute amendment, implement changes for open enrollment and distribute written procedures to departments.
•Legal to review the MOU and confirm whether any county reimbursement or obligations exist outside declared disasters.
•Record maintenance bonds and monitor through maintenance period; schedule inspections as required.
•Schedule a workshop to review the adopted code and potential fee/technical amendments.
•Staff to file resolution and notify participating hospitals; continue administration for FY2027.
•Staff to finalize contract and monitor loss history for future renegotiation.
•Staff to return with detailed policy on deployments, training, supervisor approval, and reimbursement examples.

Sep

Midlothian Community Development Corporation-2026-09-24

Community Development Board reviewed financials, approved a marketing grant for holiday events, discussed a tiered promotional-grant framework, considered a $67,000 drainage-study bid, heard council liaison updates (including a large data-center approval), and approved a 4% merit increase for the executive director.

Discussion Points

•Board approved evaluation and 4% merit increase in open session.
•Council adopted a tax rate of 0.64 and finalized a ground lease with MISD for the rec center.
•Digital Ranch data-center was approved by council; project is large and will include infrastructure and annexation.
•Executive session personnel review under Texas Government Code §551.074.
•Firm chosen due to experience with retention-pond work; study may facilitate future engineering and approvals.
•Proposal details and budget (~$11,450), dates (Dec. 12, Dec. 18–19) and coordination with Chamber and Downtown Business Association.
•Questions about vendor composition, whether banners are reusable, and how attendance/ROI will be measured.
•Recommended consultant bid of $67,000 for a drainage study.
•Requests for starter-grant options and clarifying footnotes for vendor composition.
•Staff reported Fund 625 balances, sales-tax receipts, interest income, and recent land purchases affecting expenditures.
•Tiered grant levels (Level 1 up to $5,000; Level 2 $5k–$10k; Level 3 $10k–$25k; Level 4 $25k–$50k) and vendor/attendance expectations.

Decisions

•4% merit increase approved.
•Board supported moving forward to council for authorization.
•Promotional grant approved as presented.

Directions

•Chair to record action in minutes.
•HR and payroll to implement increase.
•Staff to post updated guidance on the website if board concurs.
•Staff to present the bid and contract to City Council for final approval.
•Staff to share the council presentation upon request.
•Subcommittee or staff to add clarifying footnotes to the grant application about vendor composition and starter events.
•Subcommittee to refine vendor-composition language and consider starter grants.

Sep

Midlothian Community Development Corporation

The Midlothian Community Development Board met Aug. 27, 2026. Members reviewed financials, approved a marketing grant for a downtown holiday program, discussed a tiered grant structure for events and a $67,000 drainage study bid to be referred to city council, heard a council liaison update about major projects including an approved Digital Ranch data center, and approved a 4% merit increase for the executive director.

Discussion Points

•$67,000 bid recommended; firm recommended due to existing related work; potential long-term savings noted.
•Board moved into executive session under Texas Government Code §551.074 for personnel deliberation.
•Chair moved to approve evaluation and a 4% merit increase upon return to open session.
•Council approved Digital Ranch data center project covering significant acreage; tax rate reduced to 0.64.
•MISD ground lease for rec center finalized; YMCA to operate; estimated groundbreaking early 2027.
•Presented pop-up event details, specific dates and activities, budget estimate $11,450 and $2,700 for pole banners; coordination with Chamber and downtown groups.
•Proposed four grant levels with attendance and vendor thresholds and a vendor-composition guidance (70% retail referenced).
•Questions about firm quotes, vendor composition and reuse of banners were raised.
•Questions on enforcement, attendance verification (Placer AI), and need for a smaller 'starter' grant.
•Reported Fund 625 balances and revenue/expenditure status; explained that recent land purchases affected expenditures.

Decisions

•4% merit increase approved for executive director.
•Board agreed to proceed to council review.
•Grant approved as presented.

Directions

•Staff to finalize quotes and proceed with arrangements subject to council/administrative purchasing processes.
•Staff to forward bid to City Council for approval.
•Subcommittee to refine application footnotes on vendor composition and consider a starter-grant category.

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