In a significant move towards enhancing transparency and ethical governance, the Conroe City Council discussed an ordinance on July 23, 2025, aimed at amending the city’s administration code to establish a comprehensive code of ethics and financial disclosure requirements for city officials and employees. This initiative comes in response to growing public concerns about transparency and potential conflicts of interest within the city government.

City Attorney Mr. Garner presented the updated ordinance, which includes several key provisions. Notably, it mandates that elected officials adhere to the same ethical standards as city employees, prohibits city officials and their immediate family members from entering into business arrangements with the city, and requires the disclosure of personal financial interests. The ordinance also simplifies financial reporting by removing the requirement to disclose specific dollar amounts related to pensions and mutual funds, focusing instead on the names of funds and the number of shares held.

The impetus for this ordinance stems from a two-and-a-half-year investigation into past city projects, which highlighted the need for greater accountability. Garner emphasized that the lack of transparency had previously hindered investigations into potential misconduct, and he expressed hope that the new code would prevent similar issues in the future.

During the meeting, council members raised questions about the implications of the ordinance, particularly regarding its application to city administrators and the potential for conflicts of interest. Garner reassured them that the ordinance would cover all city officials and could be amended to include additional requirements as necessary.

The discussion also touched on recent accusations of corruption within the city, underscoring the urgency of implementing these ethical standards. Council members expressed their commitment to transparency and accountability, recognizing that the new code is essential for restoring public trust.

As the council moves forward with this ordinance, it represents a proactive step towards ensuring that city governance is conducted with integrity and openness, ultimately benefiting the residents of Conroe. The next steps will involve finalizing the ordinance and ensuring that all city officials are educated on the new requirements, paving the way for a more transparent and accountable local government.