Precinct 4 county commissioner candidates debate water, jail, and finances

Basin PBS hosted incumbent Dianne Anderson, H. Lance Friday and Don 'Woody' Woodward to discuss key issues ahead of the primary election.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Basin PBS hosted a debate for the upcoming primary election for county commissioner of Precinct 4 between incumbent Dianne Anderson and challengers H. Lance Friday and Don 'Woody' Woodward. Key issues discussed included water supply, a $170 million certificate of obligation for a new jail, the county's $100 million reserve fund, law enforcement support, road improvements, and transparency.

Why it matters

The Precinct 4 county commissioner race is an important one, as the winner will help shape policies around water infrastructure, public safety, government spending, and community engagement in Midland County. Voters will need to weigh the candidates' experience, priorities, and visions for the role.

The details

The candidates discussed several major issues facing Precinct 4. On water, Friday and Anderson noted the county's role in supporting Midland County Utility District (MCUD) infrastructure, while Woodward questioned the fairness of that funding. The candidates also addressed the $170 million certificate of obligation for a new jail, with Anderson supporting it for cost savings and Friday agreeing it was necessary, but Woodward questioning the lack of voter approval. They also debated the county's $100 million reserve fund, with Anderson emphasizing the need for it due to oil and gas revenue volatility, while Friday and Woodward questioned the accuracy of the figure and suggested using it to pay down debt or reduce taxes.

  • The debate was held on February 16, 2026.
  • The primary election for Precinct 4 county commissioner is upcoming.

The players

Dianne Anderson

The incumbent Precinct 4 county commissioner, who has focused on accountability, cooperation with cities, and supporting law enforcement during her tenure.

H. Lance Friday

A challenger with over 40 years of construction and development experience in Midland, who is running on a platform of disciplined leadership, budgeting, and public safety.

Don 'Woody' Woodward

A challenger with over 40 years of experience in Midland, including work in broadcasting and the Midland Development Corp., who is running to provide better representation, accountability, and transparency for Precinct 4.

Midland County Utility District (MCUD)

The utility district that provides water services to parts of Midland County, including the Greenwood and Vander Ranch communities that have experienced water issues.

David Criner

The Midland County Sheriff, whose office has received additional funding and resources from the county commissioners to combat oilfield theft and improve deputy retention.

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What they’re saying

“Midland has been my home. It's been my home for the Friday family, going back three generations. I care deeply about Midland and its future. For three generations, we have worked hard, we have built, we have worshiped and we have raised families in this community.”

— H. Lance Friday, Precinct 4 county commissioner candidate (Basin PBS)

“My record shows results for families, public safety and Midland County's future. When I began serving in this role, I had three priorities. The first was restored accountability and sound management, starting with the Horseshoe.”

— Dianne Anderson, Incumbent Precinct 4 county commissioner (Basin PBS)

“I am applying for the precinct four job, not as a career politician, but to serve you as your next county commissioner for precinct four. As a stockholder, taxpayer in Midland County, I believe precinct four needs, deserves, and should expect better representation, accountability, and transparency.”

— Don 'Woody' Woodward, Precinct 4 county commissioner candidate (Basin PBS)

What’s next

The primary election for Precinct 4 county commissioner will be held in the coming months, with the winner advancing to the general election.

The takeaway

The Precinct 4 county commissioner race features stark differences between the candidates on key issues like water infrastructure, jail financing, government spending, and community engagement. Voters will need to carefully weigh the candidates' experience, priorities, and visions to determine who is best suited to represent their interests.