Midlothian City Council approves hangar size exception at Midway Airport

During the recent Midlothian City Council meeting on July 8, 2025, a significant discussion centered around proposed changes to building codes for aircraft hangars at Midway Airport. The council debated the appropriate size limits for group 3 aircraft hangars, with a focus on aligning regulations with neighboring Waxahachie.

Council members considered whether to maintain the current limit of 6,000 square feet or to increase it to 12,000 square feet, which is the maximum size allowed by Waxahachie's code. The discussion highlighted safety concerns, particularly from fire officials, who emphasized the importance of keeping the smaller size limit to ensure the safety of firefighters and the public.

Councilman Weaver proposed an exception to the existing code, suggesting that hangars not used for hazardous operations should conform to the greater of the minimum building area requirements set by Midlothian or Waxahachie. This proposal aimed to foster cooperation between the two cities while addressing the unique operational needs of the airport.

After deliberation, the council voted on the motion to approve the proposed changes with the exception. The motion passed narrowly, with a vote of 3 to 2, indicating a divided opinion among council members regarding the implications of the new regulations.

This decision is expected to have a direct impact on the management and safety of operations at Midway Airport, reflecting the council's ongoing efforts to balance growth and safety in the community. As the city moves forward, further discussions with fire officials are anticipated to ensure that all safety concerns are adequately addressed.