News Flash

Next CRMWD agreement could save city $100M over 30 years

City of Midland News Release Posted on July 23, 2025

CITY'S NEXT AGREEMENT WITH CRMWD IS STRATEGIC WIN

(July 23, 2025)

MIDLAND, TEXAS -- On Tuesday, the Midland City Council approved the execution of a raw water supply contract between the City of Midland and the Colorado River Municipal Water District.

This renegotiation is a smart, strategic win for Midland. It strengthens the city’s long-term water planning, saves ratepayer $100 million in take-or-pay costs over 30 years, and positions the City of Midland for smarter water use into the next generation.

The City of Midland has purchased raw water from CRMWD since 1966 under a long-standing contract that is set to expire at the end of calendar year 2029. In anticipation of this expiration, CRMWD and the City have negotiated a new Raw Water Supply Contract that reflects updated legal and operational provisions while maintaining the City's access to essential municipal water supply sources.

The agreement, effective Oct. 1, 2030, is for 30 years with a potential extension and calls for 10 million gallons per day (MGD), separate from and in addition to water received under the Ivie Reservoir System Contracts.

“Water must be used within Midland’s service area for municipal purposes; resale is not permitted,” the city reported.  

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Setting the Record Straight: 2030 CRMWD Raw Water Contract

There has been some confusion about an upcoming City Council agenda item related to the Colorado River Municipal Water District (CRMWD) and Midland Country Club.

Let’s clear up the facts:

  • The City is not giving away water or infrastructure.
  • This is a continuation of an existing agreement with CRMWD for raw (non-potable) water use.

Invests in Our Water Future

The updated agreement gives Midland greater flexibility to plan, develop, and treat our water more efficiently in the years ahead. It supports our ability to modernize systems and responsibly prepare for future growth, sustainability, and resiliency.

Maintains Existing Raw Water Access for Irrigation

The agreement includes continued use of an existing CRMWD-owned pump station and pipeline that provides raw water to Midland Country Club for irrigation only—not drinking water.

  • This connection was originally made in 1969.
  • No new water lines or infrastructure are being added.
  • The reference is simply part of the updated contract language to reflect what already exists.

Want to read the full agreement?
You can view the City Council agenda packet on the City’s website at www.midlandtexas.gov under Agendas & Minutes.