Amid continued water infrastructure issues, the city of Conroe has denied a building moratorium waiver to Tri Pointe Homes, a developer behind two major subdivisions. Officials emphasized public safety as the deciding factor, despite concerns about potential legal challenges.
The City of Conroe has rejected a waiver request from Tri Pointe Homes, a Nevada-based company, halting the development of two significant subdivisions amid ongoing concerns about water infrastructure and public safety.
During a city council workshop on June 11, representatives from Tri Pointe Homes and Municipal Utility District No. 147 requested the council's approval to move forward with the development of Westridge Cove and Clopton Farms, two residential projects located on the city's north side. Daniel Gillham, representing Tri Pointe, contended that the city's halt on development was causing financial damage to the developer and prospective residents.
“The city's decision to pause our development is inflicting considerable harm on us and the residents of Conroe, leading to higher HOA dues and prolonged MUD taxes,” stated Gillham.
Tim Green, the attorney representing MUD 147, expressed dissatisfaction with the city for allegedly failing to honor a 2020 agreement regarding water provision to the district. “The city is failing to meet its responsibilities, and this is leading to widespread negative impacts,” Green stated.
In the face of mounting pressure, the council reaffirmed its decision regarding the moratorium, initially put in place in August 2023 and extended in December, which prohibits new residential and commercial development in the north end due to inadequate water infrastructure.
City Administrator Gary Scott stood by the decision, emphasizing that the well-being and safety of the public are the city's top priorities. “We took legal risks into account,” Scott stated, “but our primary focus remains on the health and safety of our citizens.”
In a notable decision, Councilman Howard Wood was the sole member to cast a vote in favor of the waiver, cautioning that the city could potentially encounter legal challenges. “Have we taken all necessary steps to tackle this situation?” he inquired of the team.
According to Jason Miller from Public Works, engineers have conducted a comprehensive analysis of the situation utilizing city water models. Their findings indicate that the system is presently unable to accommodate further development. A new water well near Moran Ranch is set to ease the pressure when it begins operations in September.
Councilwoman Marsha Porter expressed her backing for the decision, describing it as “an easy one” considering the situation. “We’ve pushed our system to its limits,” Miller added. “We must maintain our position until the projects are finalized.”
