and gas nature, we have in the past had a larger transient population. But nowadays, especially my generation and younger, are embracing Midland as their home and putting roots down here. We have one of the highest numbers of nonprofits for our population within the nation. We always kind of say we’re out on an island here in Midland because we’re a five-hour drive from everywhere, and so we really lean on each other.” LEADERSHIP AND VISION For Gonzalez, who became City Manager in 2023, the pace of progress reflects leadership’s determination. “It’s the mayor and the city council. When they hired me, they said they wanted a strategic plan, and they wanted it executed. They didn’t want it sitting on a shelf. What we’re doing now is transforming Midland, and that’s what they asked for.” That drive is personal. “The mayor said something that stuck with me,” Gonzalez recalled.“She wants us 148 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
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