October 20, 2006

CHIEFS HIT THE TRACK

Midland Fire Department Chief Russ Conley and Assistant Chief Chip Balzer will hit the streets this weekend in an attempt to protect the community in a different way then their everyday duties.  The two will participate in the Grand Prix Go-Cart Race.  The event benefits the March of Dimes and will take place on Saturday, October 21, 2006, beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the West Texas Kart Association track located on the north side of I-20 behind Xtreme Cycles.  The championship race will begin at 1:00 p.m.

The Chiefs will test their skills behind the wheels of go-carts.  The event has become a self-governed group of area businessman and individuals who race annual to keep the tradition and rivalries of the Grand Prix alive.  Although the March of Dimes no longer sponsors the event, the non-profit receives donations from the entry fees raised by the group. 

OCTOBER 24th CITY COUNCIL MEETING

• The City Council will recognize one Midlander for his efforts in creating and maintaining the Midland-Dongying Sister City Association.  Barry Beck started the association 20 years ago.  His interest in China began at a young age as he lived in the country in a city not too far from Dongying.  During the years, Mr. Beck has organized numerous trips of delegations from Midland to Dongying.  He has also coordinated trips to Midland from Dongying delegations.  Mr. Beck will present a plate to the City as a gift from Dongying.  There have been a number of gifts including the pavilion located at Beal Park. 
• The Midland Development Corporation approved an Economic Development Agreement with Countrywide Home Loans, Incorporated at a special meeting on October 9th.  State law requires the City Council to approve all economic development agreements.  Media Contact: Mayor Mike Canon at 683.8822
• The City Council will consider entering into an agreement for on-line recruiting services.  The City of Midland, not unlike other cities or businesses in the city, is faced with the challenge of finding qualified employees willing to fill vacant positions.  The North Central Texas Council of Governments is offering special rates to Texas cities to access the Monster.Com recruitment system.  Cost for the service is $4,980 for one-year unlimited use of Monster.Com resume search service and initial purchase of 10 job postings which can be used at anytime during the year.  If these same services were purchased directly through Monster.Com the fee would be $13,350.  Both services will interface with the City’s new on-line applicant tracking system.  Media Contact: David Hunter/Director of Administrative Services at 685.7250
• The City Council will consider moving forward with the expanded use of Litter Abatement Funds.  Earlier this year, the Beautification Commission, with the support of Keep Midland Beautiful, presented a proposal containing several one-time expenses as well as more education of litter abatement programs.  The ordinance would approve $32,703 for base salary and benefits for a recycle driver, $50,000 for equipment, $10,000 for video production of “West Texas Proud,”  $12,000 for Cleaning Lots (a new program that offers grants to non-profits for clean-up efforts), and $35,000 for Keep Midland Beautiful to hire a full time assistant. The ordinance is part of the City’s overall efforts to beautify the City.   Media Contact: Kay Snyder/Director of Utilities at 685.7162

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