The Conroe City Council will vote Thursday on whether to keep, expand, or lift a moratorium on new development in the city’s north, citing ongoing water capacity issues and pressure from residents and builders.
On Thursday, Conroe leaders will deliberate on the future of a moratorium affecting new development in the city’s northern area. This decision comes amid a backdrop of rapid population growth that is putting pressure on water capacity, leading to growing frustrations among both residents and developers.
Since 2010, the city's population has almost doubled, a rapid increase that officials claim has strained the water infrastructure beyond its capacity. In August 2023, the city halted the issuance of building permits for the northern section, pointing to issues of noncompliance with state water capacity requirements. According to authorities, Conroe needs over a dozen new wells, but only a few are currently under construction.
In a dramatic turn of events, the moratorium has garnered significant attention following a conflict between Willis ISD and the city that nearly postponed the grand opening of Calfee Middle School, which is set to welcome students this Wednesday. The district has filed a lawsuit against Conroe, seeking over $1 million in damages related to water service issues.
“Moving forward, we are committed to ensuring that this situation does not repeat itself,” City Administrator Gary Scott stated in a recent video message. However, he admitted that the fundamental issue—inadequate water capacity—persists without a solution.
According to Cody Miller, director of government affairs for the Greater Houston Builders Association, the ban has compelled builders to shift their projects to neighboring cities. He cautioned that transferring infrastructure expenses to developers might lead to an increase in home prices.
Authorities report that the moratorium has affected a range of projects, from residential swimming pools to hotel facilities. “We had to tell them no,” Scott remarked, highlighting the unfortunate reality that even a disabled veteran's request for a backyard pool was turned down.
On Thursday at 6 p.m., a significant gathering of residents and developers is anticipated for the meeting. The outcome may depend on financial contributions: determining if the city, developers, or a combination of both will cover the costs for essential improvements to comply with state water regulations.
“The pressing inquiry remains: who will bear the costs?” According to Scott, “The response to that question will determine the pace of Conroe's growth.”
