Midland County to Consider Selling Former Gem & Mineral Society Site

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Midland County commissioners are set to hold a special meeting on Thursday, February 19th to discuss the potential sale of the property located at 801 N. Fort Worth St., which was previously the site of the building used by the Midland Gem and Mineral Society. The property was donated to the county in 2008 due to issues with asbestos, and now the commissioners will go into executive session to take action regarding the sale of the site.

Why it matters

The former Gem and Mineral Society site has been a point of discussion for Midland County officials due to the asbestos issues that led to the building's donation. The potential sale of the property could allow the county to find a new use for the land or recoup some of the costs associated with maintaining the site.

The details

In 2008, members of the Midland Gem and Mineral Society accepted a conditional deed for the Clarence Scharbauer House property to use as the organization's home. However, due to issues with asbestos, the club members later donated the building directly to Midland County. Now, the county commissioners will meet to discuss selling off the 801 N. Fort Worth St. property.

• The special meeting is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
• In 2008, the Midland Gem and Mineral Society accepted the conditional deed for the property.

What’s next

The Midland County Commissioners will go into executive session during the February 19th meeting to take action on the potential sale of the 801 N. Fort Worth St. property.