Navigation Team Meeting Recap: Addressing Infrastructure in Midland County
On August 16, 2024, the Max Loves Midland Navigation Team convened to discuss one of the most critical aspects of community development: infrastructure. As the backbone of Midland County’s growth and sustainability, infrastructure encompasses everything from roads to flood management and internet connectivity. The meeting highlighted ongoing efforts and challenges in these key areas, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration and proactive planning.
Why Infrastructure Matters
Tony Stamas, President/CEO of the Midland Business Alliance, kicked off the meeting by underscoring the vital role infrastructure plays in attracting and retaining businesses and residents. Infrastructure isn’t just about physical structures; it’s about creating an environment where people want to live, work, and invest. As Midland continues to grow, it’s crucial that our infrastructure keeps pace, ensuring that the community remains vibrant and resilient.
Flood Reduction Efforts
Bre Sklar, a key player in flood reduction initiatives, shared insights into the ongoing battle against flooding in Midland. Despite the catastrophic dam breach in 2020, the area’s flooding issues predate that event, with 650 homes flooding before and 2,100 homes flooding after. The Flood Resilience Committee, formed in February 2021, has been working diligently to address these challenges. With the help of international engineering firm AKON and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the committee has identified both short-term and long-term projects to mitigate flooding.
A notable short-term success includes securing $40 million in ARPA funds and $15 million from the MEDC for flood reduction efforts, with a focus on projects that can be completed within the required timelines. These projects will be presented to the City Council in October 2024. Community input remains a priority, with an open house scheduled for August 26th to ensure that all voices are heard in these critical decisions.
Bre Sklar
Enhancing Internet Connectivity
Scott Noesen, Director of Broadband Initiatives for the Midland County Internet Connectivity Committee, discussed the ongoing efforts to ensure all Midland County residents have access to affordable, high-quality internet. As internet connectivity has become essential for education, telehealth, and daily life, the committee is focused on bridging the gap for underserved and unserved areas. Currently, 21,519 households are served, 4,694 are underserved, and 1,300 are unserved in Midland.
With federal and state funding on the horizon, the committee is working with Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to submit grant proposals that will enhance service quality and foster competition. However, challenges remain, particularly in managing costs and ensuring timely deployment. The committee encourages community institutions to support ISP grant applications and help remove roadblocks during the build-out phase.
Scott Noesen
Road Maintenance and Development
Jon Myers and Jacob Kain joined us from the County and City, respectively. They provided an overview of the complex and ongoing work involved in maintaining and developing all of Midland County’s roads. Roads are more than just pathways; they are essential for commerce, travel, and community access. The county employs a Pavement Management strategy, which focuses on applying the right fix at the right time to maximize the lifespan of roadways.
Funding for road projects comes from various sources, including millages, state funds, and special assessments. However, rising costs and limited contractor availability pose significant challenges. With numerous projects planned for 2024 and 2025, the community is encouraged to stay informed, stay patient, vote for necessary millages, and report road issues promptly.
Jacob Kain and Jon Myers
Moving Forward Together
The meeting continued with a call to action for the Midland community. Infrastructure is not just a government responsibility; it requires active participation from all residents. Whether it’s providing feedback on flood reduction plans, supporting broadband initiatives, or advocating for road improvements, every contribution helps build a stronger, more resilient Midland.
As Midland continues to evolve, the Max Loves Midland Navigation Team remains committed to fostering collaboration, innovation, and proactive problem-solving. Together, we can ensure that Midland continues to work towards being an exceptional place where everyone thrives.
An Invitation
The meeting concluded with an invitation for current Navigation Team Members to be involved and encourage other community members to join our Navigation Team. All Midland County residents are invited and welcome. We also heard a communications recap from Kevin LaDuke, who enthusiastically shared the successes we’ve been seeing and about the stories we’re telling through The Max Loves Midland Show.
Our next Navigation Team meeting will be Friday, November 15, 2024, from 9 am-11 am, on the 1st floor of the Griswold Communication Building, on the campus of Northwood University. If you’d like to join us or have questions, send me a message!
Kevin LaDuke
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