Conroe - Montgomery Edition | November 2024

The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.

Conroe Montgomery Edition VOLUME 10, ISSUE 8 NOV. 20DEC. 19, 2024

River Plantation’s reality

Debris pickup from Hurricane Beryl, which hit the Houston area in July, continues in River Plantation. The neighborhood, located south of Conroe, also experienced ooding in January and May.

NICHAELA SHAHEENCOMMUNITY IMPACT Portions of Conroe-area neighborhood struggle following repeated ooding events

homeowner Marquita Calderon said. Meanwhile, since Montgomery County began its home buyout program in 2020, 15 of the 124 homes bought out have been located in the neighborhood, Recovery Manager Morgan Lumbley said.

from the U.S. Geological Survey. Particularly, homes that are closer to the West Fork of the San Jacinto River are prone to frequent ooding, residents said. “I honestly regret ever buying this house, because now I kind of just feel like I’m stuck here,”

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN & LIZZY SPANGLER

This year, homes in portions of the River Plan- tation community ooded after the West Fork of the San Jacinto River surpassed the “major ood stage designation” line twice this year, once in late January and again in early May, according to data

CONTINUED ON 16

Also in this issue

Subscribe to our free daily email newsletter!

Government: Conroe City Council rejects bid from Texas Litter Control to run city’s animal shelter— nd out why (Page 11)

Community: Learn how to volunteer, what donation items are needed at 17 Conroe, Montgomery-area nonprots (Page 30)

Comprehensive care for everything life throws your way. Proud to serve area families with trusted, high-quality, nationally recognized care. • Trauma center with 1,400 affiliated physicians • Leading neurological care, dedicated unit with intensive care and a Comprehensive Stroke Center

• A state-of-the-art Heart & Vascular Institute • Advanced women’s health & maternity services

• Children’s health and affiliated on-site sub-specialists • Rockets Orthopedics and Rockets Sports Medicine Institute • Canopy Cancer Survivorship Center • Access to our extensive health network and much more

memorialhermann.org/thewoodlands

Advancing health. Personalizing care.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

*LIMITED TIME ONLY*

FLASH SALE! UPTO $40,000 *

OFF

*TERMSANDCONDITIONSAPPLY*

The Rockrose Ranch Amenity Center is officially open!

Come See Our State-of-the-Art Amenity Center & 55+ Exclusive Farmhouse. Schedule Your Tour Today!

(936) 245-8080 Sales@RockroseRanchTX.com www.rockroseranchtx.com CONTACTUS

All Age & Gated 55+ Lifestyle Community

*Terms and conditions apply. Offer only available on select models. Pricing is subject to change. Please see community representative for full details.*

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

��-��-�� CALL FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE

Baths • Showers • Walk-in Tubs • Windows

Our Special Offer For You! 20% Off ANY PROJECT + FLEXIBLE FINANCING

We understand hiring a contractor can be stressful, but rest assured, we’ll treat you and your home with a respect not commonly found in the industry. Let us show you that quality service and integrity can go hand in hand. What Makes Us Different?

Scan to get started!

M-39963

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

About Community Impact

Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Asia Armour Angela Bonilla Melissa Enaje Wesley Gardner Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Nichaela Shaheen Jessica Shorten Haley Velasco Aubrey Vogel Carson Weaver Graphic Designers Richard Galvan Ellen Jackson Matt Mills

Chrissy Leggett General Manager cleggett@ communityimpact.com

Martha Risinger Jesus Verastegui Taylor White Ronald Winters Senior Managing Editor Matt Stephens Senior Product Manager Kaitlin Schmidt Quality Desk Editor Sierra Rozen

Lizzy Spangler Editor lspangler@ communityimpact.com

Jason Culpepper Publisher jculpepper@ communityimpact.com

16300 Northwest Freeway Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 2814696181 CI Careers

We've teamed up to bring you more of the stories you care about.

communityimpact.com/careers linkedin.com/company/communityimpact comnews@communityimpact.com comads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising communityimpact.com/newsletter

Proudly printed by

Press releases

Advertising

Email newsletters

YOUR BUSINESS DOESN’T FIT INSIDE A BOX Neither should your accounting services.

YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR SUCCESS. BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION TODAY!

832.299.6712

BETTERBOOKKEEPERSTX.COM 19221 INTERSTATE 45 SOUTH | SUITE 250 THE WOODLANDS, TX

CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION

Impacts

3 Crust Pizza Co. The franchise offers pizzas, alongside other items. • Opened Oct. 12 • 449 S. Loop 336 W., Ste. 1600, Conroe • www.crustpizzaco.com/locations/TX/conroe-336 4 Mariel’s Meat Market A second location of the business is now open. • Opened Sept. 17 • 15264 Hwy. 105 W., Ste. 132, Montgomery • https://marielsmarket.wixsite.com/mysite 5 Dental Care of Woodloch The dental facility offers oral health services, cosmetic dentistry, crowns, impacts, dentures and oral surgery. • Opened Sept. 20 • 9442 Hwy. 242, Conroe • www.dentalcareofwoodloch.com 6 Stickers ‘N More The business offers brake work and windshield repairs. • Opened Aug. 20 7 Planet Fitness The new location includes cardio and strength equipment. • Opened Oct. 17 • 220 S. Loop 336 W., Conroe • www.planetfitness.com/gyms/conroe-south-loop-tx 8 Exalt Health Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital The inpatient rehabilitation hospital provides physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. • Opened Sept. 26 • 2507 S. Loop 336 W., Conroe • www.exalthealth.com • 810 W. Davis St., Conroe • Facebook: Sticker ‘N More

Willis

Montgomery

POWELL ST.

1097

LONE STAR PKWY.

LAKE CONROE

830

2432

1484

105

149

2854

Conroe

KEENAN CUT OFF RD.

PINE MARKET AVE.

METCALF ST.

336

3083

FISH CREEK THOROUGHFARE

WOODFOREST PKWY.

1314

149

WEST FORK SAN JACINTO RIVER

1488

242

MAP NOT TO SCALE

2 A-MAX Auto Insurance Conroe A-MAX Auto Insurance has over 200 locations with trained insurance agents. The company offers auto, motorcycle, boat, RV and homeowners insurance. • Opened in October • 3915 W. Davis St., Ste. 210, Conroe • www.amaxinsurance.com

Now open

1 Cottonwood Bridal The bridal store offers private bridal suites, personal consultants and a diverse collection of dresses. • Opened Oct. 8 • 6421 Hwy. 105 E., Stes. B & C, Conroe • www.cottonwoodbridaltx.com

9 The Corral The Corral offers soups, salads and burgers. • Opened Sept. 6

(936) 703-5333 | 2275 Riverway Drive, Conroe, TX 77304

A Place Where You Belong!

Immediate Availability in Memory Care Happy Thanksgiving! ONE 2 BEDROOM

336

2 BATH COTTAGE COMING SOON IN INDEPENDENT LIVING

SGT. ED HOLCOMB BLVD.

It’s TIME to choose your Best Life! Offering Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care.

www.WoodhavenVillage.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

• 200 E. Powell St., Willis • 936-666-5257

Now open

Coming soon

10 Vintage Revisited Antiques The shop specializes in selling antiques and home decor. • Opened Oct. 1 • 310 Metcalf St., Conroe • Facebook: Vintage Revisited Antiques 11 Los Cucos Mexican Cafe The restaurant serves fajitas, ceviches, grilled platters, tacos and more. • Opened Sept. 25 • 901 Pine Market Ave., Ste. 100, Montgomery • www.loscucos.com

15 Home Depot The new 108,000-square-foot store features an appliances showroom, a tool rental center, ability to rent online and pick up in-store. • Opened Oct. 24 • 20240 Eva St., Montgomery • www.homedepot.com

18 Crepes of Brittany Crepes of Brittany will be opening later this year along Hwy. 105 in Montgomery, manager Stacie McKaughan confirmed. The veteran-owned business that will specialize in French crepes, McKaughan said. • Opening in the fall of 2024 • 19786 Hwy. 105 W., Ste. 100, Montgomery • www.crepesofbrittanytx.com

12 The Emergency Center at Conroe The emergency center offers an on-site lab. • Opened Oct. 18 • 4019 I-45 N., Conroe • www.theemergencycenter.com 13 Milano Nail Spa Willis The salon offers manicures and pedicures. • Opened Oct. 12

• 12318 I-45 N., Ste. 100, Willis • www.milanonailspawillis.com

Golden Taps The business provides a vintage tap trailer for rent. • Opened in August • Serves Montgomery County • www.goldentapstx.com

16 Harbor Veterinary | Animal Clinic & Surgical Center The practice’s services will include preventative care, advanced care, general and elective surgery. • Opening in January 2025 • 3000 W. Davis St., Ste. 1A, Conroe • www.myharborvet.com

• Relocated Sept. 1 • 1915 N. Frazier St., Ste. 102, Conroe • www.conroeofficesolutions.net

Expansions

Coming soon

Lone Pint Brewery Co-owner Trevor Brown said after operating since 2012, the business has plans to expand to a larger location within the next two years. • Expanding in 2026 • 507 Commerce St., Magnolia; expanding to

14 Bruster’s Real Ice Cream Bruster’s Real Ice Cream has over 150 flavors of ice cream. • Opening in April 2025 • 12891 Hwy. 105 W., Conroe • www.brusters.com/locations/conroe/442

Relocations

17 Conroe Office Solutions Formerly located along Longmire Road, the business provides a variety of office spaces.

Montgomery space • www.lonepint.com

Strong, Solid, & Secure.® TEXAS FIRST BANK IS A COMMUNITY BANK YOU CAN TRUST WITH YOUR FAMILY’S & YOUR BUSINESS'S FINANCES. With over 50 years of history, we are well-capitalized and well-positioned to serve our customers and community for years to come.

Our Woodlands Team

1965 S Loop 336 W • Conroe, TX 3000 Research Forest Dr, Ste 190 • The Woodlands, TX

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

n SPREAD OUT ON 1-ACRE HOMESITES n EXCLUSIVE PARTNERS IN BUILDING NEIGHBORHOOD n LOCATED ON FM 1097, ADJACENT TO BENTWATER IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY n LUXURY CUSTOM HOMES FROM THE $900s Get the best of both worlds, outdoor country living and lots of privacy and easy access to Conroe and The Woodlands. Bentwood Farms is just what you’ve been looking for in North Houston. Now you know where to find it.

149

1097

105

CALL TODAY FOR INFORMATION ON AVAILABLE HOMES

KAREN GAINES | Luxury Custom Home Sales | 702 338 7171 (C) | Karen.Gaines@PartnersInBuilding.com

Learn your risk. Your lungs will thank you. It’s not that you take them for granted; but why would you think about getting a lung cancer consultation when everything seems fine? Often, symptoms don’t usually appear until the latest stages, and many people who develop lung cancer aren’t smokers or haven’t had known exposure to dangerous substances. Learn your risk—and talk to one of the experts at St. Luke’s Health. Your lungs will thank you back.

Learn more about our NCI-designated cancer center at StLukesHealth.org/WoodlandsDLDCCC .

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN

Conroe changing water rates for multifamily complexes

Diving in deeper

The city of Conroe commissions a water and sewer rate study every year to determine if the current rates are adequate to fund the infrastruc- ture system. Boothe said city staff started looking into increased water and sewer rates for multifam- ily units in August. The city prefers apartment owners cover any potential increase rather than passing it to ten- ants; however, Conroe is leaving that choice with the owners, Boothe said. According to the city’s website, the water and sewer rate adjustments are necessary to address the expenses with maintaining the city’s water and sewer system while also facilitating improvements and upgrades to the system. Boothe said the funds that are collected from the change in the water and sewer rates will be used for: • Operations and maintenance • Debt service payments of the city’s water and sewer system • Funding capital improvement projects such as future water wells During its Sept. 26 meeting, Conroe City Council also approved the Multi-family Lifeline Rate, which will provide a 50% discount on water and sewer base rates for people with disabilities living in multifamily complexes and/or citizens aged 65 and over who reside in apartments. This discount is already offered to single-family homeowners, according to the city’s website.

The impact to apartment owners will vary based on the water usage. The base rates include 0-3,000 gallons of water and sewer service, and Boothe said the average usage for multifamily complexes per unit is 2,900 gallons a month. For example, starting Dec. 1, multifamily complexes with 354 units would go from paying $38.36 to $61.74 per unit per month if each unit were to use 3,000 gallons—which is a 61% increase compared to last fiscal year’s rates.

Conroe will change how multifamily complexes are charged for water and sewer rates starting Dec. 1, after Conroe City Council approved changes to its rates Sept. 26. The new rates will charge multifamily units at 90% of the single-family rates, with volumetric water charges based on per- unit basis, said Collin Boothe, assistant city administrator and director of finance. “This is the first time the city has changed the methodology for charging apartments,” Boothe said.

Conroe water rates per unit

FY 2023-24 FY 2024-25

$80

$70

+31% +21% +40% +58% +61% +62%

$60

$50

$40

$30

$20

$10

270

354

405

Number of units in complex

NOTE: THE FY 2024-25 RATE ASSUMES 3,000 GALLONS ARE USED PER UNIT PER MONTH.

SOURCE: CITY OF CONROE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

New development moratorium area

Zooming out

2854

development and came into effect after city officials first warned City Council about a decline in water capacity this past April. In June, the City Council also approved an ordinance implementing irrigation restrictions between May 1-Oct. 31, limiting irrigation between 6 p.m.-10 a.m. of the next day. During non-drought conditions, there are no irrigation restrictions imposed between Nov. 1-April 30, according to the ordinance.

The city has approved the addition of four water wells that are being funded through the city’s budget to help alleviate water needs. The addition of the four wells only allows the city to service the current needs, city officials said. As of Aug. 29, council implemented a 120- day temporary development moratorium for the northern portion of the city to combat potential water shortage. The temporary development moratorium halts new

1097

1484

105

2854

336

NOTE: THIS MAP IS AN ESTIMATION AND MAY NOT REFLECT EXACT BOUNDARIES.

SOURCE: CITY OF CONROE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Government

Conroe approves $853K for electrical service On Oct. 24, Conroe City Council approved $853,182 for electrical service costs associated with the Oscar Johnson Jr. Community Center. Nancy Mikeska, an assistant city manager and director of community development, said the delay in getting electrical service is due to design deficiencies with the building. Current situation The approved funding is for the electrical equip- ment, installation labor and material associated with the center’s electrical service, according to the Oct. 23 workshop meeting agenda packet. Collin Boothe, director of finance and assistant city administrator, said $700,000 will come from interest earnings on bond funds and $153,182 will come out of the city’s general fund reserves. “Here’s what I know—it’s a mess,” Mikeska said. “But the good news is we’re going to fix this.”

Backup power required for certain Conroe businesses On Oct. 24, Conroe City Council approved an ordinance requiring all new and reno- vated retail fuel stations, assisted living facilities and nursing facilities to have alternative power sources. The ordinance went into effect in early November. The gist The ordinance will apply to all fuel stations, assisted living facilities and nursing facilities newly permitted for construction or renovation, according to the ordinance. “I think this is a very important ordinance that I did feel compelled to bring to council in light of the recent experiences we just had with Hurricane Beryl,” council member Harry Hardman said Oct. 23.

The new Oscar Johnson Jr. Community Center

• Event spaces • 87,000 square feet • Pond

Set to include: • Basketball courts • Recreation center

SOURCE: CITY OF CONROE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Mikeska also said that due to the electrical service delay, the city is getting charged $3,200 per day by Brookstone Construction, which is building

the center. Stay tuned

Mikeska said the time frame for the delivery of the electrical equipment is March, while the new completion date for the center is spring 2025.

We are accepting new patients!

CUSTOM REPLACEMENT Full Dentures STARTING AT $599 PER ARCH WITH WARRANTY NO CASH VALUE

All Dental Treatment Over $1,000 EXPIRES 12/31/2024

DENTAL Implants* STARTING AT $1,440 EACH

Free Exam & X-Ray BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

*DOES NOT INCLUDE FINAL RESTORATION NO CASH VALUE

DDS DENTURES + IMPLANT SOLUTIONS OF CONROE • 1142 W. Dallas St • Conroe, TX 77301

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY! (888) 580-0731

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN & LIZZY SPANGLER

County forms library review committee On Oct. 22, in a 3-0 vote, Montgomery County commissioners moved to form a new committee that will review and revise library policies and bring back new policies to a future court for approval. Precinct 2 Commis- sioner Charlie Riley was absent. What you need to know The committee will be made up of repre- sentatives from County Judge Mark Keough’s office and Precinct 1 Commissioner Robert Walker’s office, alongside Precinct 3 Chief of Staff Evan Besong. The committee will be advised by the county’s attorney’s office. The court also approved a stay against all actions of the reconsideration committee, which includes placing any future actions of the committee on hold until revised policies are in place.

Conroe rejects vendor bid to run animal shelter On Oct. 24, Conroe City Council voted against approving a bid from Texas Litter Control, a non- profit that offers low-cost veterinary services, to run the city’s animal shelter. In a nutshell “In order to preclude us from getting back into this situation that we found ourselves in, the city must ultimately

have responsibility and oversight to this thing.” HARRY HARDMAN, CITY COUNCIL MEMBER

City staff recommended not awarding the bid to TLC due to certain stipulations placed on council and the city, according to the agenda packet. In an Oct. 18 memo, interim City Attorney Mike Garner expressed concerns with TLC’s bid and said that approving the bid may violate state law “with respect to giving city funds to a person or entity without sufficient oversight by the city.” Some of the concerns outlined related to: • A stipulation that the city would enlarge the animal shelter • TLC’s request for control over the policy regard- ing returning stray animals to their owners • TLC’s request for the right to shift funding

within the budget without city oversight The Conroe Police Department is operating the animal shelter, per prior reporting. How we got here After a dog injured himself at the Conroe Animal Shelter, City Council terminated the contract with the former operator, Care Corporation, on Aug. 22.

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Your Source for Flu Shots Your Source for

GET YOUR FLU SHOT TODAY! Protect yourself and your loved ones, schedule your flu vaccine now. Call 936-539-4004 to make an appointment.

LoneStarFamily.org 936-539-4004

We accept most insurance including Medicaid, CHIP and Medicare plans. We offer low-cost, self-pay options and sliding fee scale with eligibility. Contact our eligibility specialists before your appointment to see if you qualify. Hablamos Español GET YOUR FLU SHOT TODAY! Protect yourself and your loved ones, schedule your flu vaccine now. Call 936-539-4004 to make an appointment. Your Source for Flu Shots GET YOUR FLU SHOT TODAY! Protect yourself and your loved ones, schedule your flu vaccine now. Call 936-539-4004 to make an appointment.

Plan ahead & take the first step toward your future today!

LONESTAR.EDU/START Spring 2025 registration opens October 14

LoneStarFamily.org 936-539-4004

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

Voters approve CCPD for Montgomery According to unofficial voting results from Montgomery County, voters approved Prop- osition A for the creation of the Montgomery Crime Control and Prevention District, or CCPD, with 966 votes. The approval means a portion of sales tax will be reallocated to the city’s police department. Meanwhile, voters opposed Proposition B—which would have extended terms for elected officials—with 758 votes against. Per unofficial election results from Montgomery County, incumbent Datren Williams was defeated by challenger Nicole May for Position 4. Jamison Gentle also ran against Williams. In the race for Position 5, which did not see an incumbent running for re-election, Lindsay Dawson took the lead, defeating Josh Webb and Kristin Guardino. Position 6 incumbent Stacey Chase was defeated by challenger Melissa Semmler. Scott Buzbee also ran against Chase. In the election for Position 7, which also did not have an incumbent, Marianne Horton defeated John Robichau, per unofficial election results from Montgomery County. Slate of 4 defeat Conroe ISD incumbents Four new members will take seats on the Conroe ISD board of trustees, with two challengers win- ning victories over incumbents and two newcom- ers also securing seats in the Nov. 5 election. What happened

MISD voters approve $5.5M VATRE Voters have approved Montgomery ISD Proposition A for a voter-approval tax rate election, per MISD’s Communications Coordinator Stephanie Wells and unofficial results from Montgomery County. The gist Unofficial election results show there were 15,627 votes in favor of the VATRE, while 15,318 voted against.

Board of trustees results

Winner

Incumbent

Position 4

39.67% Datren Williams 54.82% Nicole May 5.51% Jamison Gentle

Position 5

18.32% Kristin Guardino 36.06% Josh Webb 45.62% Lindsay Dawson

Position 6

17.81% Scott Buzbee 38.26% Stacey Chase 43.93% Melissa Semmler

Proposition A results

Position 7

Winner

61.65% Marianne Horton 38.35% John Robichau

50.5% For

49.5% Against

SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTY ELECTIONS/COMMUNITY IMPACT ALL RESULTS ARE UNOFFICIAL UNTIL CANVASSED.

Voters reject all propositions in WISD’s $115.4M bond Voters rejected all three of Willis ISD’s bond propositions, according to unofficial election results from Montgomery and San Jacinto counties. Some context The three propositions were previously put in front of voters on May 4, where they failed to pass. District officials cited voter turnout in May as one of the reasons to send the propositions to voters again, according to prior reporting. Proposition A would have authorized $27 million for a student activity center; Proposition B would have authorized $68.8 million for an athletic complex and stadium with a community room; and Proposition C would have authorized $19.6 million for an aquatic center. In their words “We respect and appreciate the voice of our vot- ers that showed in larger numbers,” WISD board President Kyle Hoegemeyer said. “We remain committed to working with all stakeholders to

Willis ISD bond results

Winner

Proposition A

54.42% Against

45.58% For

Proposition B

57.07% Against

42.93% For

Proposition C

56.71% Against

43.29% For

SOURCES: MONTGOMERY COUNTY ELECTIONS, SAN JACINTO COUNTY ELECTIONS/ COMMUNITY IMPACT • ALL RESULTS ARE UNOFFICIAL UNTIL CANVASSED.

address the ongoing needs of our district in a fiscally responsible manner. Moving forward, we will continue to evaluate and prioritize how we can best serve our students within the existing resources, and we welcome further dialogue on these essential initiatives.” “We are fortunate to serve a district that values growth and educational quality, and while the bond results are not what we hoped, our commit- ment to serving our students, families, and staff remains unchanged,” Superintendent Kimberley James said. “We will work diligently to seek alter- native paths to meet the demands of our growing district while staying true to the core values and high standards that define Willis ISD.”

City proposition results

Winner

Proposition A

28.81% Against

71.19% For

Proposition B

56.48% Against

43.52% For

SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTY ELECTIONS/COMMUNITY IMPACT ALL RESULTS ARE UNOFFICIAL UNTIL CANVASSED.

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

OUR MOST DELICIOUS EVENT OF THE YEAR!

A NIGHT IN THE

Presented By

JUNE 2-30, 2022

CHAIRMAN’S BALL Honoring Jennifer Millington 2024 Chairman of the Board January 25, 2025, at 6 p.m. Margaritaville Lake Resort Includes Tastings from 20+ Restaurants! June 2nd Launch Party Sponsor

Get Tickets!

Scan to see the growing list of participating restaurants, available sponsorship opportunities, and ticket options.

Scan for more info & tickets!

to our Platinum Members for their generous support! Thank You to our Platinum and Emerald Members for their generous support! Thank You

CONROE.ORG|936-756-6644

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

Willis

BY LIZZY SPANGLER

Montgomery

1097

Willis

Montgomery

LONE STAR PKWY.

• Cost: $89.88 million • Funding sources: federal, state funds 4 Hwy. 242 widening LAKE CONROE

1097

Ongoing projects

830

2432

1097

LONE STAR PKWY.

1 Hwy. 105 widening Project: From 10th Street to South Loop 336, Hwy. 105 is being widened from two to four lanes. Update: This project is 32% completed, according to a Sept. 16 media update from the Texas Department of Transportation. • Timeline: March 2023-third quarter 2027 • Cost: $52.35 million • Funding source: state funds 2 I-45 ramp reversal Project: I-45 is undergoing a northbound ramp reversal between FM 830 and FM 1097 in Willis. Update: According to a Sept. 16 media update from TxDOT, this project is 40% complete. • Timeline: February 2024-second quarter 2025 • Cost: $3.17 million • Funding source: state funds 3 Hwy. 105 reconstruction Project: Hwy. 105 is being reconstructed from two to four lanes between South Loop 336 to FM 1484. Update: This project is 73% complete, according to a Sept. 16 media update from TxDOT. • Timeline: October 2022-third quarter 2027

LAKE CONROE

Project: TxDOT is using an existing right of way on Hwy. 242 between FM 1488 and I-45 to widen lanes and restripe the intersections. Update: According to a Sept. 16 media update from TxDOT, this project is 34% complete. • Timeline: October 2023-first quarter 2026 • Cost: $29.11 million • Funding sources: federal, state funds 149 105 2854 KEENAN CUT OFF RD. 149

830

1484

LONGMIRE RD.

105

N. 10TH ST.

2854

Conroe

Upcoming projects

KEENAN CUT OFF RD.

336

3083

5 Eastbound flyover construction on Hwy. 242 Project: Montgomery County commissioners and TxDOT are funding the construction of a flyover from northbound I-45 to eastbound Hwy. 242. Update: As of the most recent update available Oct. 2, the TxDOT project tracker listed the project as ready to bid on Sept. 1 and $268,054 had been spent on project engineering and construction. • Timeline: late 2024-TBD • Cost: $19.1 million • Funding sources: Montgomery County, federal funds 149 FISH CREEK THOROUGHFARE

1314

149

FISH CREEK THOROUGHFARE

WEST FORK SAN JACINTO RIVER

1488

242

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

$519,990 The Omaha 1035 Windy Creek Path Conroe, TX 77304 2,645 sq. ft., 1 Story, 4 Bedrooms, 3 Full Baths, 3-car Garage

$575,000 The Bluffstone 215 Sunrise Canvas Drive Willis, TX 77318 2,908 sq. ft., 1 Story, 4 Bedrooms, 3 Full Baths, 1 Half Bath, 3-car Garage

$395,000 The Dunlap 15823 Tamarin Tiger Court Conroe, TX 77302 2,070 sq. ft., 1 Story, 3 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths, 1 Half Bath, 2-car Garage

$620,000 The Hagan 17316 July Moon Lane Conroe, TX 77302 3,736 sq. ft., 2 Story, 5 Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths, 1 Half Bath, 4-car Garage

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

River Plantation’s reality From the cover

Two-minute impact

River Plantation flood zones

Key:

Waterways

CRIGHTON RD.

Zone AE/Floodway Regulatory floodway; river channel and adjacent land areas that must be reserved to discharge the base flood Zone AE 1% annual flood hazard aka 100-year flood plain; high flooding risk

The western and southern portions of River Plantation are within ood plains, per ood zone maps from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Being located in a 100-year ood plain means there’s a high risk of ooding, per FEMA. Calderon said her home ooded during the storms in late April-early May. “It started seeping in through the foundation,” Calderon said. “We stayed up until 3:30 in the morning trying to get water out of the house. We took every precaution. We sandbagged every single window, the door. We foamed the house.” Before this year—when it happened twice—the West Fork of the San Jacinto River had not reached the major ood stage since August 2017. Calderon said she believes the ooding is due to the management of the San Jacinto River. “All they need to do is manage the outow of the river. … It’s a simple x,” Calderon said. Jason Millsaps, executive director of Montgomery County Emergency Management, said Lake Conroe dam releases increase downstream ooding, which can worsen ooding conditions when heavy rainfall saturates low-lying areas. Aubrey Spear, the general manager of the San Jacinto River Authority, said water releases from Lake Conroe are necessary to protect the dam, which also holds back “a signicant amount of the peak ows” from rain events. “So the dam is actually lessening the natural ows from these rain events, which otherwise would not be mitigated at all,” Spear said. Jamie Goodman, president of the River Plantation Community Improvement Association, said when disaster strikes, unaected neighbors help residents rebuilding their homes.

Zone X/Shaded

Between the 100-year and 500-year flood plains; moderate flooding risk

P L A

STONE MOUNTAIN DR.

HOLLY SPRINGS DR.

WEST FORK SAN JACINTO RIVER

LITTLE CANEY CREEK

NOTE: THIS MAP IS AN ESTIMATION OF THE FLOOD ZONES AND MAY NOT REFLECT EXACT BOUNDARIES.

Flooding of San Jacinto River’s West Fork at I-45

Hurricane Harvey, 2017

January 2024

April-May 2024

90 0 100 110 120 130

126.88 ft.

120.98 ft.

118.37 ft.

Major ood stage

SOURCES: FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY, U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Conroe's rainfall accumulation

Typical

Record (2017)

2024

Zooming out

20 30 40 50 60 70 80

66.58 in.

In a typical year, Conroe accumulates around 36 inches of rain through Oct. 1, per the National Oce- anic and Atmospheric Administration. However, in 2024, Conroe has accumulated nearly 55 inches of rain through Oct. 1. “The weather’s outside of our control. … So there’s not a whole lot that we can really do … versus just making people aware that you’ve got to be ready for [bad weather] when it comes,” Lumbley said. “Because it’s going to be a ‘when.’ It’s not an ‘if.’”

54.74 in.

36.87 in.

0 10

January

February March April

May

June

July August September October

SOURCE: NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT

NOTE: ACCUMULATION DATA IS AS OF THE FIRST OF EACH MONTH.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

CONTRIBUTIONS BY JESSICA SHORTEN BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN & LIZZY SPANGLER

Also of note

Diving in deeper

Lumbley said substantial damage determina- tions are enforced by FEMA, and homes that are considered substantially damaged must come into flood plain compliance. Ways to become compliant include demolition, elevation or opening up the bottom floor of a two-story house to allow water to flow through. Through its Flood Mitigation Assistance Program, FEMA does provide some funding for these projects. However, Lumbley said she believes flood plain compliance doesn’t equal safety. “Just because you’re above it does not guaran- tee that you’re not going to flood again,” Lumbley said. “Maybe you are above water, and maybe you don’t flood. But now you’re an island. And what happens if you have a medical emergency? … If we could just remove the home, we don’t have to worry about anyone being in life danger.”

One recovery option residents might be eligible for is a home buyout. Montgomery County buys out previously flooded homes through programs associated with FEMA and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Lumbley said. Since 2020, the county has spent $28.72 mil- lion buying out 124 houses through four FEMA Flood Mitigation Assistance programs and two HUD Community Development Block Grant for Disaster Recovery programs, according to data provided by Lumbley. Through those six programs, 15 houses have been bought out in River Plantation.

Resident Jimmy Lee, whose house has a retention wall and is built elevated 8 feet higher than his surrounding neighbors, said he’s seen many families move out due to the damages caused by the flooding of Brandon Road and the surrounding streets. “My neighbor bought the house next door for his daughter,” Lee said. “After it flooded the first time, they rebuilt. But now with this last flood, they moved out and left the house gutted from inside.” Lee said he and his wife didn’t experience any flooding, unlike the other houses on his street. But for homeowners like Calderon, she said making a decision on what to do next comes with challenges because her house has been consid- ered substantially damaged by Montgomery County.

Lumbley said after a flooding event, her office gets more calls from people about buyouts.

“River Plantation is really popular because we’ve purchased so many [homes] out there, people are aware that it’s there,” Lumbley said.

River Plantation buyout locations

Going forward

option. It’s probably the way to go.” Meanwhile, residents like Calderon— whose home is on the market—are still rebuilding. “It is what it is. We’re rebuilding. We’re back in our house. ... But this is going to happen again. This is not the last time this is going to happen,” she said. “My husband loves this house. He doesn’t want to move.”

On Sept. 23, FEMA selected Montgomery County’s 2023 Flood Mitigation Assistance application that will provide $2.2 million for seven home elevations in the county. Lumbley said the county is working through the award and obligation process. “We haven’t done elevation in Montgomery County,” Lumbley said. “We’ll see how it works to see if it is a continued, viable option. But I think buyouts, really, it’s the final mitigation

STONEWALL JACKSON DR.

ROBERT E. LEE DR.

WEST FORK SAN JACINTO RIVER

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

The Woodlands #1 Choice Wright Eye Care Center We provide a full range of eye care services to all members of your family from children age 5 to seniors.

The Clock Shop Quality Repair, Sales & Service Antiques & Gifts L�� S�� N�� H�� • O�� C�� D�� Use this ad for your next purchase or any repairs on any clock. 15% Of f EXP . 1/31/25 PROMO CODE : COM 6315 FM 1488 • The Woodlands, TX • 281-259-8338 www.theclockshoponline.com �� N OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE I� H�� R�� S�� A�� G�� C��

Optometry · Ophthalmology Optical

936-297-2030 4185 Technology Forest Blvd. Ste. 225 The Woodlands, TX 7738 1

J. Britt Wright, OD Therapeutic Optometrist Optometric Glaucoma Specialist

Stephen G. Slade, MD Surgical Director

wrighteye2020.com

Same Day Medical Appointments

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Education

BY ANGELA BONILLA & EMILY LINCKE

Conroe ISD trustees approve school renovation costs Conroe ISD trustees approved the guaranteed maximum prices for several 2023 bond projects during an Oct. 15 meeting. What you need to know Improvements slated for Conroe ISD campuses

Lone Star College approves tax rate

Homeowners living within the Lone Star College System’s boundaries will be charged the same tax rate for fiscal year 2024-25 that they were for the previous fiscal year after the college system’s board of trustees approved a flat tax rate on Oct. 3. The action taken On Oct. 3, trustees unanimously approved a FY 2024-25 tax rate of $0.1076 per $100 valuation.

Ford Elementary • Projects: Gymnasium, adding classrooms, driveway expansion • Timeline: October 2024-November 2025 Hailey Elementary • Projects: Gym and classroom additions, electrical work • Timeline: October 2024-November 2025 Buckalew Elementary • Projects: Gym addition, roof, generator, electrical work • Timeline: October 2024-November 2025 Knox Junior High • Projects: Interior renovations, floors, paint, generator • Timeline: December 2024-November 2025

The board approved guaranteed maximum prices for projects presented by Assistant Superintendent Chris McCord. Tellepsen Builders are the contractors for all the projects except for Knox Junior High School, which will be done by Satterfield & Pontikes Construction. The projects include: • $43.8 million for Ford and Creighton Elementary schools • $39.72 million for Hailey and Buckalew Elemen- tary schools • $23.81 million for the Knox Junior High School renovation What else? W. Robert Eissler and Mittie J. Campbell Elemen- tary Schools are set to open in August 2025.

Average tax bill Average home value in Lone Star College System*: $285,000 2024-25 tax rate: $0.1076 (per $100 valuation) 2024-25 tax bill: $306.66

SOURCE: CONROE ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

*AS OF 2022

SOURCE: LONE STAR COLLEGE SYSTEM/COMMUNITY IMPACT

TOP DOCTORS • HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS • BEST TECHNOLOGY

OUR SERVICES Foot & Ankle Care, Family Medicine Coming Soon Walk-ins Welcome & Same Day Appointments Virtual Visits & Prescriptions sent to your closest Pharmacy Personalized Healthcare Facility Use your Benefits Before Year-End!

Scan code to schedule your appointment.

REVIEWS

5.0

Hablamos Español • DoctorsInc.com • 936.273.6000

FREE CONSULTATION WITH OUR TEAM OF LICENSED PHYSICIANS. CODE: SCIFREE EXPIRATION DATE: DECEMBER 31, 2024

25% OFF INGROWN TOENAIL PROCEDURE MAX $100 VALUE. TERMS AND EXCLUSIONS APPLY. CODE: SICI25P EXPIRES DECEMBER 31, 2024

CODE: COCI25P EXPIRES DECEMBER 31, 2024 25% OFF CUSTOM ORTHOTICS MAX $100 VALUE. TERMS AND EXCLUSIONS APPLY.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

CONROE 1304 W Davis (936) 539-8787

MONTGOMERY PLAZA 1420 N Loop 336 W (936) 441-7161

NORTH CONROE 18434 Hwy 105 W (936) 582-5410

WILLIS 9618 FM 1097 (936) 228-0385

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY ANGELA BONILLA & HANNAH NORTON

Teens can view which schools accept them Texas students can now see which of the state’s public universities would accept them before they submit college applications, state leaders announced Oct. 11. What you need to know Students who submit academic information— like their grade point average, class rank and standardized test scores—to the state’s new Direct Admissions portal will receive a list of where they qualify for automatic acceptance, according to an Oct. 11 news release from Gov. Greg Abbott’s office. Students can begin using Direct Admissions at the end of their junior year of high school. Once a student receives their admissions list, they must still submit an application to verify their informa- tion and help schools determine if they qualify for scholarships. If students do not qualify for direct admission at

Conroe ISD holds dedication ceremony Conroe ISD held a dedication ceremony for Janet K. Bartlett Elementary School on Oct. 29, per an Oct. 29 news release. The school is named after former Conroe teacher Janet K. Bartlett, who began her career in the school district in 1976. She was named the District Elementary Teacher of the Year in 1994 and retired in 2006, according the news release. What happened The event, held in the school cafeteria, celebrated the dedication of the CISD’s 71st campus and 38th elementary school, per the news release. The campus, funded by the $653.57 million 2019 bond, has a 950-student capacity and serves students in pre-K through fourth grades in the Caney Creek and Conroe high school feeder zones, per prior reporting.

Houston-area participants There are seven universities in and around the Houston region participating in the Direct Admissions program.

1 Sam Houston State University

Hunstville

2 Prairie View A&M University 3 Texas Southern University 4 Texas A&M University 5 University of Houston 6 University of Houston-Clear Lake 7 University of Houston-Downtown

College Station

146

105

290

Houston

Prairie View

610

SOURCE: TEXAS HIGHER EDUCATION COORDINATING BOARD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

a specific university, they can still go through the traditional application process, according to the release. Students can submit a single application to Texas institutions through ApplyTexas.

Family Law • Real Estate Law • Probate Talk to us - Call Now! 936-756-0400 900 W Davis St #100 Conroe, TX 77301

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

IN NATURE, CONNECTED BY COMMUNITY Rooted

With 300 acres of lush green spaces, beautiful homes and amenities designed to enhance your well-being. A prime location close to The Woodlands and Tomball ensures you’ll always have access to vibrant activities, dining, shopping and more. Plus, families will find exceptional educational opportunities at Magnolia ISD, making it an ideal environment for children to flourish. Branch out from the ordinary at Woodhavyn and start living extraordinary. Discover a haven of natural beauty and peaceful living in Woodhavyn.

New Homes $300s-$600s Coming 2025!

Models are not an indication of racial preference. Floor plans, maps and renderings are artist’s conception based on preliminary information, not to scale and subject to change. This is not an offer of real estate for sale, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, to residents of any state or province in which registration and other legal requirements have not been fulfilled. Pricing does not include options, elevation, or lot premiums, effective date of publication and subject to change without notice. All square footages and measurements are approximate and subject to change without notice. Trademarks are property of their respective owners. School enrollment and boundaries subject to change. Equal Housing Opportunity. 11/24. CM

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY ANGELA BONILLA

Conroe ISD looks to expand Teacher Incentive Allotment program

What they’re saying

“We may have to invest in infrastructure to purchase more instruments to help us [expand the program].” CURTIS NULL, SUPERINTENDENT, CISD

Conroe ISD is examining its Teacher Incentive Allotment program and how it might be able to grow the program to oer higher pay to more qualifying teachers. CISD teachers did not receive a raise in 2023-24. In the spring, the district was granted approval from the Texas Education Agency for a total of 267 teachers to receive designation through the program after completing a three-year process. The TIA was created by House Bill 3 in 2019 as part of the 86th Texas legislative session and signed by Gov. Greg Abbott. The TEA website states the program’s goal is providing outstanding teachers an accessible pathway to a six-gure salary. According to the TEA, the school of a teacher

TIA programs include:

3 designation levels based on teaching eectiveness: Master, Exemplary or Recognized $3,000-$32,000 in state funding for each designated teacher Prioritization for high-need and rural campuses 90% of state funding from the program must be spent on teacher compensation on the designated teacher’s campus

“The program is for the highest- performing teachers at our highest need campuses. We

were strategic when we chose those campuses.” TERRAL JACKSON, TIA ADMINISTRATION COORDINATOR

SOURCES: CONROE ISD, TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

who earned a designation through the TIA program receives additional funding from the state based on their level of designation.

What’s next

• Monitor systems to ensure data validation • Consider using more instruments to measure student growth • Add new components without overburdening teachers and administrators Null said the district will receive more data from its most recent round of qualifying teachers in spring 2025.

growth data is collected as part of the state’s validation process for the TIA program. During a presentation to the board Sept. 17, TIA Administration Coordinator Terral Jackson said the district will continue looking to: • Add additional campus and teacher assignments

The district began its TIA process in 2020 when it submitted a letter of intent to the state, according to the district’s website. Currently, CISD is focusing its TIA program on 26 campuses that have a high percentage of economically disadvantaged students, according to discussion at the Sept. 17 board meeting. Teacher performance and student

ALLERGIES? We test air quality and clean ductwork.

A/C • HEATING • AIR QUALITY

IT’S HEAT SAFETY CHECK TIME! CALL TODAY!

Instant Rebates up to $3,000 on select Armstrong systems Valid through 12/31/2024

Please call or go online for appointment | www.eascoair.com | 281-209-5311 LICENSED • INSURED TACL “A” 965C

CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20-21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40

communityimpact.com