The city of Conroe is responding to a rise in complaints regarding fiber optic crews causing damage to private property by implementing stricter regulations, including new fees and establishing a resident complaint system. City officials announced that the upcoming changes are designed to enhance utility companies' accountability regarding damage inflicted on water lines, gas lines, landscaping, and pavement during installation processes.
During a city council meeting on April 29, Norman McGuire, the assistant city administrator and director of Public Works, reported that Conroe has not diligently enforced its current permit process. Despite the expectation for companies to pay fees and maintain liability insurance, it has been reported that former staff members frequently overlooked these requirements.
Mayor Duke Coon addressed the issue of property destruction during a recent council workshop, stating, “This destruction of our citizens' property has got to stop.” He specifically criticized Houston-based Ezee Fiber for what he described as “atrocious” damage in The Woodlands Hills.
Seann Perry, the vice president of engineering at Ezee Fiber, acknowledged that there are instances of damage to items such as mailboxes and sprinkler systems. He committed to enhancing response times for reported issues. Perry stated, “If our crews are causing damage and it remains unaddressed, that is unequivocally a problem.”
Councilman Harry Hardman advocated for service agreements that would provide residents with direct contact with the companies, ensuring prompt repairs. “That is what is lacking, and it is lacking significantly,” Hardman stated.
Brandy Taylor, representing Conroe’s engineering department, announced that the city is creating an online complaint form to establish direct communication between residents and companies.
The city has announced a series of measures to improve project management and community communication. These include an increase in permit fees, a requirement for projects to commence within three months, enforcement of 30-day payment deadlines for fines, and a mandate for companies to notify residents at least 14 days before the start of any work.
Taylor emphasized the importance of improved communication and accountability in the discussion.
