In the heart of Conroe's city hall, a palpable tension filled the air as community leaders gathered to discuss a pressing issue: a proposed citywide development moratorium. The meeting, held on May 30, 2025, drew passionate voices from various stakeholders, each expressing their concerns about the implications of halting development in the rapidly growing city.
One of the key speakers, representing Howard Hughes, voiced strong opposition to the moratorium. He highlighted the city's ongoing struggles with water infrastructure, emphasizing that the current plan to build new wells would only address a fraction of the problem. "This is an unacceptable scenario that prolongs the problem rather than fixes it," he stated, urging the council to seek timely solutions instead of imposing a blanket halt on development. He warned that such a moratorium would effectively signal a "closed for business" status for Conroe, potentially driving away new businesses and families, and placing additional tax burdens on existing residents.
Cody Miller, from the Greater Houston Builders Association, echoed these sentiments, suggesting that the council should delay the moratorium until further assessments could be made. He pointed out that the timing of the moratorium could hinder the community's growth and economic stability.
As the discussions unfolded, it became clear that the council faced a critical decision. The balance between addressing immediate infrastructure needs and fostering a thriving community was at stake. The voices of concern from local leaders underscored the urgency for a comprehensive strategy that would not only resolve water issues but also support Conroe's continued prosperity.
With the future of development hanging in the balance, the council's next steps will be crucial in shaping the economic landscape of Conroe. The community watches closely, hoping for solutions that will ensure both the health of its infrastructure and the vibrancy of its economy.