Conroe - Montgomery Edition | May 2026

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Conroe Montgomery Edition VOLUME 12, ISSUE 2 MAY 26JUNE 23, 2026

Brought to you by our premium gold sponsor: 2026 Home Edition After the water rises For homeowners in Montgomery County, FEMA maps can aect insurance, rebuilding and buyout options

mixed emotions about leaving it, but I can’t stay.” Federal Emergency Management Agency ood maps, insurance rules and federal grant programs can shape what happens after the water leaves. County data shows 144 homes have been bought out through six mitigation programs to date. For homeowners, the question isn’t whether it’ll ood again. It’s what they can aord to do next.

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN

Kathleen Adams used to call her home her “forever.” The Conroe-area property had room for reunions, a pool and a 1,400-square-foot porch. Now, much of her life is boxed upstairs. After repeated oods, she said she watches the weather, tracks river levels—and waits for a buyout process that can take years. “I love it here,” Adams said. “I have so many

CONTINUED ON 28

Kathleen Adams, 78, has lived in her home near McDade Park for over 28 years. She has spent over $50,000 trying to repair it, awaiting a buyout for six years. (Nichaela Shaheen/Community Impact)

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CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION

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Make Friends. Make Memories. Make Life an Adventure.

Imagine waking to a golden sunrise, hiking a woodland trail, meeting a neighbor for a morning workout – and still having the whole day in front of you. It’s not a dream, it’s your life at Clopton Farms. With acclaimed Montgomery ISD schools, a state-of-the-art recreation center, a glistening pool, gorgeous parks and more, this resort-style community is an amenity-filled escape from the ordinary – and a place you’ll be proud to call home.

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New Homes From the High $300s | 2,128–3,613 sq. ft. | 3–5 Beds | 2–4 Baths | 2– to 4–Bay Garages

The prices of our homes, included features, plans, specifications, promotions/incentives, neighborhood build-out and available locations are subject to change without notice. Stated dimensions, square footage and acreage are approximate and should not be used as a representation of any home’s or homesite’s precise or actual size, location or orientation. There is no guarantee that any particular homesite or home will be available. A Broker/Agent must register their client in person on client’s first visit at each community for a Broker/Agent to receive a commission or referral fee, if available. Not all features and options are available in all homes. Unless otherwise expressly stated, homes do not come with hardscape, landscape, or other decorator items. Any photographs or renderings used herein reflect artists’ conceptions and are for illustrative purposes only. Community maps, illustrations, plans and/or amenities reflect our current vision and are subject to change without notice. Photographs or renderings of people do not depict or indicate any preference regarding race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, familial status, or national origin. Our name and the logos contained herein are registered trademarks of Tri Pointe Homes, Inc. © 2026 Tri Pointe Homes Texas, Inc. All rights reserved.

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

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See a David Weekley Homes Sales Consultant for details. Prices, plans, dimensions, features, specifications, materials, and availability of homes or communities are subject to change without notice or obligation. Illustrations are artist’s depictions only and may differ from completed improvements. Copyright © 2025 David Weekley Homes – All Rights Reserved. Houston, TX (HOU-25-005453)

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

About Community Impact

Community Roots: Founded in 2005 by John and Jennifer Garrett, we remain a locally owned business today. Texas-Wide Reach: We deliver trusted news to 65+ communities across the Austin, Bryan-College Station, Houston, and Dallas-Fort Worth metros.

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Ella Barnes Rhett Brady Sarah Brager Bradley Dountz Wesley Gardner Cole Gee Rachel Leland

Chrissy Leggett General Manager cleggett@ communityimpact.com

Emily Lincke Roo Moody

Nichaela Shaheen Catherine White Kara Willis Ariel Worthy Graphic Designers Ellen Jackson Matt Mills

Jake Schlesinger Jesus Verastegui Ronald Winters Managing Editor James T. Norman Product Manager Martha Risinger Quality Desk Editor Sarah Hernandez Houston Market President Jason Culpepper

Lizzy Spangler Editor lspangler@ communityimpact.com

Chelsea Williams Account Executive cwilliams@ communityimpact.com

16300 Northwest Freeway, Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 281-469-6181 Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases comnews@communityimpact.com Advertising comads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

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CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Impacts

2 Texas First Bank The full-service financial center houses Texas First Bank, Texas First Insurance and Texas First Wealth Management under one roof. • Opened in early April • 19940 Eva St., Montgomery • www.texasfirst.bank 3 Texas Crawfish Co. The new location in Conroe offers crawfish, shrimp, snow crab legs, corn, potatoes, sausage and mushrooms. • Opened April 16 4 Slick City Action Park The business offers a wide variety of activities for customers to enjoy, including an indoor trapeze court, multiple slide courses, a jungle gym and trampoline basketball and dodgeball. • Opened April 24 • 3905 FM 1488, Ste. 100, The Woodlands • www.slickcity.com 5 Imperial Sporthorses The facility offers full-service stall and pasture boarding, private and group riding lessons, training programs for horses and riders, horse sales and consignment, and show coaching and competition programs. • Opened March 12 • 17506 FM 1314, Conroe • www.txcrawfishco.com 6 Texas Precision Cuts Owner Lorinne Taylor said the salon is now offering haircut services starting at $19 in Montgomery. With over 20 years of experience, Taylor offers services from haircuts and blow-drys to bang trims and shampoo services, amongst other services. • Opened May 1 • 12724 Walden Road, Ste. A, Montgomery • www.texasprecisioncuts.com • 15715 Old Conroe Road, Conroe • www.imperialsporthorse.com

Willis

Montgomery

1097

SUMMIT PARK DR.

LAKE CONROE

830

2432

MCCOWN ST.

1484

105

149

2854

KEENAN CUT OFF RD.

SIMONTON ST.

336

Conroe

3083

MEDICAL CENTER BLVD.

FISH CREEK THOROUGHFARE

1314

149

OLD CONROE RD.

1488

242

JIM STOWE RD.

1314

MAP NOT TO SCALE

tenders, street tacos, loaded fries and agua frescas. • Opened in April

Now open

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BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

Coming soon

Now open

7 The Core Movement Studio Having operated out of the home of owner Victoria Pfeffer, the fitness studio is now moving to a new brick- and-mortar location this summer, Pfeffer said. The Core Movement Studio is a boutique fitness studio with an emphasis on Pilates, CoreAlign, the Gyrotonic expansion method and more. • Estimated to open in July • 2643 S. Loop 336 W., Ste. B, Conroe • www.coremovementstudio.com

What’s next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION

12 The Crawfish Critic and Seafood Co. The brick-and-mortar location in downtown Conroe will offer crawfish alongside a variety of sauces, seasonings and supplies, including but not limited to King Kooker pots, burners & gear, Cajun sauces and seafood essentials and restaurant supplies. • Opened May 24 • 1200 N. Frazier St., Conroe • www.onestopshopcrawfishcajunnearme.com

14 Bamburger A new location of Bamburger is now open in Montgomery, owner Juan Pablo confirmed. The restaurant, located along Hwy. 105, serves smashburgers, fries cooked in beef tallow and hand-spun milkshakes. This is the third location for Bamburger, which also has locations along Kuykendahl Road in Tomball and FM 2920 in Spring. • Opened April 8 • 15260 Hwy. 105 W., Ste. 136, Montgomery • https://bamburger.online HomeWorks, a new service focused on small repairs, maintenance and everyday home needs. Omni Construction Services is a family-owned contractor serving The Woodlands, Conroe and Montgomery. • Serves The Woodlands, Conroe and Montgomery • www.omnicd.com

8 AutoZone The retailer will open a 7,381-square-foot store in Conroe, per a TDLR filing. Construction is estimated to begin in September and wrap up next January. • 2580 FM 1488, Conroe • www.autozone.com 9 Gold Star Memorial The Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Commission is building its Gold Star Memorial, per a TDLR filing. The project is estimated to cost $1.8 million. • 378 I-45 N., Conroe • www.honoredmission.org 10 Crossroads Coffee Construction on the 1,200-square-foot coffee shop is set to begin in June and wrap up in August, per a TDLR filing. • 15325 Summit Park Drive, Ste. 109, Montgomery • https://crossroadscoffee.cafe

chiropractic care for patients of all ages. • 15320 Hwy. 105, Ste. 116, Montgomery • www.nuspine.com/locations/lake-conroe

13 HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe The hospital named AJ Milanak as its new chief financial officer, according to an April 27 news release. Milanak joins the Conroe hospital from Grand Strand Medical Center, where he served as assistant chief financial officer, per the release. • 504 Medical Center Blvd., Conroe • www.hcahoustonhealthcare.com/conroe Omni Construction Service According to an April 23 news release, Omni Construction Service announced it launched Omni

Closings

15 Wine & Design The business offered private parties, kids camps and hosted adult paint-and-sip art classes. • Closed April 30 • 202 McCown St., Ste. A, Montgomery • www.wineanddesign.com

In the news

11 NuSpine Chiropractic Lake Conroe The chiropractic office has been under the ownership of Dr. Lauren Baker since April 15, officials said. NuSpine Chiropractic Lake Conroe provides family-focused

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CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Government

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN

Montgomery County Commissioners Court on April 9 dug into what could come next for the Montgomery County Jail. Commissioners moved with contingencies to look into building a new jail, and during discussion, got a deeper look at what ocials said is becoming a more urgent issue as the county grows and the 40-year- old jail continues to age. Sheri Wesley Doolittle told commissioners the county has made short-term changes to ease crowding. But he said those steps do not solve the county’s larger jail capacity and infrastructure problem. “We are in real trouble here,” Doolittle said. Montgomery County reviews jail expansion

Montgomery County Jail timeline

Why now?

Sheri Wesley Doolittle traced the county’s jail planning back years, with multiple studies conducted. 2005 Sheri Tommy Gage commissioned a Texas Commission on Jail Standards study projecting a need for 2,352beds by 2025.

Representatives from engineering rm HDR told the court the county’s long-range jail planning shows a need for about 2,352 beds by 2040. Consultants and county ocials described the current jail as outdated and dicult to operate. Doolittle said the county continues spending money just to keep it functioning. According to the presentation by HDR, the jail is nearing or at an unsustainable operating point, has poor sightlines that increase safety risks for sta and inmates, and faces recurring structural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing issues. Planner Paul Vlnar said the facility is in poor condition and called it a challenge both physically and operationally. He said the jail is a 24/7 opera- tion that puts constant strain on building systems. Commissioners also discussed how population growth is adding pressure. County Judge Mark Keough said Montgomery County could reach 1 million residents by 2030.

2006

2007

The county built the Joe Corley Facility with 1,000 beds for $44 million . The county sold the Joe Corley Facility for $65 million and hired Broaddus Planning to conduct another jail needs assessment after immediate overcrowding followed that sale. That 2013 study found a minimum of 2,200 beds would be needed by 2032 and estimated a new jail at $202 million.

2008

2013

2014

SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICECOMMUNITY IMPACT NOTE: THIS TIMELINE IS NOT COMPREHENSIVE.

Montgomery County Jail breakdown

2,352

What they’re saying

1,317

“Build for what we need and plan for what’s to come. We can’t let

“I think we would be negligent if we don’t prepare for what’s coming and what’s already here.” WESLEY DOOLITTLE, MONTGOMERY COUNTY SHERIFF

380

it go this long.” ROBERT WALKER, PRECINCT 1 COMMISSIONER

Original inmate capacity

Rated beds* as of April 2026

Beds needed by 2040

*RATED BEDS ARE THE NUMBER OF BUNKS THAT MEET STATE REQUIREMENTS. SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICECOMMUNITY IMPACT

Proposed location of new Montgomery County Jail

Stay tuned

1484

reliance on aging infrastructure, per consultants and Doolittle’s presentation. The proposed site of a new jail is next to the Montgomery County Mental Health Facility. At the May 7 Commissioners Court meeting, Doolittle shared an update that the county jail has returned to compliance after previously failing state inspections. The court deferred an item to further discuss the jail during its May 7 meeting.

Commissioners moved with contingencies to look into building a new jail, which was presented by Doolittle as Option A. Building a new jail would take around 4 1/2 years, between planning, design, construction and moving into the new facility. A new jail facility would include a detention center designed to current jail standards and would provide more long-term exibility, improved stang eciency and avoid

336

MIKE MEADOR PKWY.

STEWARTS CREEK

$976.8M total project cost

2,352 -bed facility

SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICECOMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY COLE GEE & KARA WILLIS

Lake Conroe Dam celebrates state historical marker

Montgomery County commissioners voted April 23 to approve a resolution order- ing the adoption of an artificial intelligence system code of ethics. More details County IT Director Bobby Powell said the AI policy is required by the state of Texas, along with the appointment of an AI risk management official. Powell said currently, he’s the only person within the department who can handle the task. The approved resolution enacts the minimum standards required by the state. “There will be living documents ... that we will bring back to the court ... that have some specifics in them about what we as a county are doing,” Powell said. County to adopt AI code of ethics

On April 16, the San Jacinto River Authority dedicated a new state historical marker for Lake Conroe Dam. The new marker highlights the jour- ney of the Lake Conroe Dam from its conception in 1968 to construction in 1973. The full story The official historical marker description describes the foundation of the Lake Conroe Dam. It was created by the San Jacinto River Authority, which was formed to help combat droughts and construct water supply reservoirs. In 1968, SJRA agreed with the Texas Water Development Board and the city of Houston to build the dam. Construction was completed in January 1973, and the dam was filled in October 1973. The historical marker dedication ceremony had multiple speakers from the Conroe area, including Montgomery County Historical Commission Chair Larry Foerster. Foerster said the Lake Conroe Dam is the 87th state historical marker in Montgomery

Lake Conroe Dam historical marker

LAKE CONROE

105

County, and he emphasized the importance of preserving the area’s history. “It’s important for us to preserve our heritage,” Foerster said. “Montgomery is the third-oldest county in Texas. ... This dam and lake are a part of that legacy.”

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336

SGT. ED HOLCOMB BLVD.

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Government

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN

County, Conroe approve David Memorial plans Conroe City Council and Montgomery County Commissioners Court on April 23 approved an interlocal agreement tied to the final stretch of the David Memorial Drive extension. The agreement clears the way for the county to build the final 1,500 feet of the roadway from the Conroe city limits to Hwy. 242. The details Under the agreement, Montgomery County would handle the engineering plans, bid the project out for construction and manage the work. Conroe will review and approve the plans, and they have 15 days to notify the county in writing after receiving notice if they object. Former Conroe City Administrator Gary Scott said the county would also contribute up to $3 million toward the project, which needs right-of-way from Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital. Conroe city leaders retire May 13 Gary Scott, Conroe city administrator and acting city attorney, and Deputy City Admin- istrator Nancy Mikeska retired May 13. The gist Scott and Mikeska confirmed the retire- ments in a May 11 email, and said Mayor Duke Coon told them May 8 that the city was “immediately going in a new direction.” In a May 12 interview, Coon said the retirements were Scott and Mikeska’s decision. Diving in deeper The retirements come less than two months after Conroe City Council voted to end executive contracts for several city employees, including Scott and Mikeska, and convert their employment to at-will status, per prior reporting. Conroe City Council was set to meet May 20, after press time, to discuss and consider retaining outside professional services or engaging with potential candidates to support the administration and operation of the city.

Conroe approves fire station repairs Conroe City Council approved two fire department-related contracts April 9, which include structural repairs at Fire Station No. 5 and a new fill station and compressor for Fire Station No. 8. What you need to know The council approved a contract with Crowned Eagle Construction for $79,988 to complete structural repairs at Fire Station No. 5 after Fire Chief Paul Sims said city staff found deeper issues while addressing mold in the station’s evidence room. After the mold issue was remediated, staff evaluated the structure behind the walls and found damage tied to termites. A new breathing air compressor and containment fill system for Fire Station No. 8 for $69,102 was also approved by the council.

David Memorial Drive extension

242

Conroe city border

METROPARK DR.

DAVID MEMORIAL DR.

Scott said Conroe’s portion would come from a regional participation account tied to a 2007 agreement with The Woodlands Township, with about $501,000 available for joint projects. Conroe’s money would be released once the county secures the needed right of way from the hospital. Construction is expected to begin this summer.

Montgomery reviews $192K in park upgrades

Homecoming Park

Montgomery officials are looking at new play- ground and fitness upgrades for Homecoming Park as part of a planned park improvement project. During an April 28 Montgomery City Council meeting, Tim Duckworth with Cunningham Rec- reation presented a proposal for new equipment at the park, including a play structure, swings, shaded areas and outdoor fitness equipment. No

COMMUNITY CENTER RD.

149

Lincoln Elementary School

WILLIS MONTGO M E

1097

LIBERTY ST.

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DR.

vote was taken. What happened

PLEZ MORGAN

The plan includes:

City officials said $200,000 was set aside during last year’s budget process for park improvements, with the goal of making major upgrades at Home- coming Park. The proposed project totals about $192,300, according to the presentation. Duckworth said the city was also able to apply about $51,993 in state initiative funding, bringing down the cost of the equipment package. Stay tuned City officials said the Homecoming Park design could still see minor changes, such as color adjust- ments, but the city would need to stay close to the proposed playground setup to keep the current funding opportunity.

New playground equipment Swings, including toddler seats and a disc swing A spring rider

A stand-up seesaw Two shade canopies

Americans with Disabilities Act-approved features, including a transfer platform Outdoor fitness equipment

SOURCE: CITY OF MONTGOMERY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Staff also said Cedar Brake Park could be next in line for upgrades. Duckworth is expected to visit that park and provide numbers that could be discussed during the next budget process.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY LIZZY SPANGLER

COALTOWN RD.

Montgomery

LAKE CONROE BAY RD.

BETHEL RD.

SOUTH SHORE DR.

LAKE MOUNT PLEASANT RD.

Willis

149

JOHNSON RD.

1097

MCCROREY RD.

1486

CUDE CEMETERY RD

LAKE CONROE

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DR.

830

LONE STAR PKWY.

2432

1484

2854

105

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

6 Johnson Road reconstruction Project: Between FM 1486 and Bethel Road, Johnson Road is being reconstructed to include extra width. Update: This project is underway, per the Precinct 1 capital improvement projects dashboard. • Timeline: Thisproject began construction in April, per an April 14 Facebook post from Walker. • Cost: $2.3 million • Funding source: Montgomery County road bond funds

• Timeline: TBD • Cost: $1.02 million • Funding source: Montgomery County road bond funds

Upcoming projects

1 Calvary Road reconstruction Project: Calvary Road will be reconstructed to be four lanes between Lake Conroe Bay Road and I-45. Update: This project is currently in the design phase, according to the Montgomery County Precinct 1 capital improvement projects dashboard. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: $1.01 million • Funding source: Montgomery County road bond funds 2 Cude Cemetery Road reconstruction Project: Cude Cemetery Road will be reconstructed to be four lanes between FM 1097 and FM 830. Update: This project is currently in the design phase, according to the Montgomery County Precinct 1 capital improvement projects dashboard. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: $872,040 • Funding source: Montgomery County road bond funds 3 Lone Star Parkway reconstruction Project: Lone Star Parkway will be reconstructed to be a four-lane asphalt road between FM 149 and Hwy. 105. Update: This project is currently in the design phase, according to the Montgomery County Precinct 1 capital improvement projects dashboard.

Ongoing projects

4 Lake Mount Pleasant reconstruction Project: Additional width is being added to Lake Mount Pleasant Road between South Shore Drive and FM 1097. Update: This project is under construction, per the Montgomery County Precinct 1 capital improvement projects dashboard. • Timeline: Constructionon this project began in January, per a Jan. 20 Facebook post from Precinct 1 Commissioner Robert Walker. • Cost: $4.8 million • Funding source: Montgomery County road bond funds 5 Coaltown Road reconstruction Project: Coaltown Road is being reconstructed to add additional width between Rogers Road and Hwy. 75. Update: Construction on this project is ongoing, according to the Montgomery County Precinct 1 capital improvement projects dashboard. • Timeline: Constructionbegan in February, per a Feb. 6 Facebook post from Walker. • Cost: $4 million • Funding source: Montgomery County road bond funds

Completed projects

7 Martin Luther King Drive reconstruction Project: The two-lane road was reconstructed to add additional width between FM 149 and FM 1097 West. Update: This project has been completed, according to an April 10 Facebook post from Walker. • Cost: $1.4 million • Funding source: Montgomery County road bond funds 8 Cedar Lane Segment 1 Project: Between McCrorey and County Line roads, the road was constructed to include additional width. Update: This project has been completed, per an April 8 Facebook post from Walker. • Cost: $2.1 million • Funding source: Montgomery County road bond funds

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CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION

Events

BY LIZZY SPANGLER

Melissa DiVietri Book Signing Author Melissa DiVietri will be signing her books “A Tale of a Service Animal” and “The ABCs of Disability Etiquette.”

June

‘Pu s’ Stage Right is presenting “Pus,” a comedic, fast-paced parody with references for wizardry fans, from the perspective of the “Pus” House. • June 5-6, 12-13, 7:30 p.m., June 7, 14, 2 p.m.

• June 13, 1-3 p.m. • Free (admission) • Barnes and Noble, 2920 I-45 N., Conroe • https://melissadivietri.com

• $24-$34 (online), $20-$30 (box ofice) • Crighton Theatre, 234 N. Main St., Conroe • www.stage-right.org

Willis Juneteenth Celebration The celebration will include live music, activities such as lawn games and free food and refreshments. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. • June 19, noon-5 p.m. • Free (admission) • 706 Martin Luther King Blvd., Willis • www.ci.willis.tx.us ‘Bloomin’ Crazy for Quilts’ Quilt Show The Woodlands Area Quilt Guild is hosting the “Bloomin’ Crazy for Quilts” quilt show, which will feature over 250 quilts of all sizes and categories. • June 19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., June 20, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. • $10 (adults) $5 (kids ages 6-11), Free (children under age 6) • Lone Star Convention and Expo Center, 9055 Airport Road, Conroe • https://waqg.org

KimoKawaii Anime Experience and Convention This convention will include voice actor guests, cosplay contests, panels and over 100 vendors. • June 6, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., June 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • $10-$30 (online), $50 (weekend passes at the door), Free (kids 10 and under) • Lone Star Convention and Expo Center, 9055 Airport Road, Conroe • www.kimokawaii.net Piney Woods Film Festival The lm festival, held at Lone Star College-Montgomery, will include Q&As, live music and an awards ceremony. • June 11-13, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. • $25-$65

Outrun Hunger Montgomery County Food Bank’s annual event will include a 8K or 5K trail run, or a 1K color dash. This event will also include live music, food trucks and a kids’ zone. • June 13, 7-10 a.m. • $40-$80 • The Lake House at Grand Central Park, 1039 Lake House Drive, Conroe • www.mcfoodbank.org/outrun

• 3200 College Park Drive, Conroe • https://pineywoodsilmfestival.org

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Community

BY HANNAH BROL

Water park guide

Webster

105

Montgomery

Conroe

New Caney

105

Spring

COURTESY BIG RIVERS WATERPARK & ADVENTURES

610

Katy

6 Great Wolf Lodge Webster This climate-controlled indoor water park in Webster also features dryland attractions, lodging and dining. • Open year-round • $34-$55 (half-day pass), $49-$79 (full-day pass), $65-$269 (season pass)

Baytown

99 TOLL

Houston

COURTESY MARGARITAVILLE LAKE RESORT

Webster

TRINITY BAY

GALVESTON BAY

99 TOLL

• 1000 Great Wolf Way, Webster • www.greatwolf.com/webster

Galveston

COURTESY TYPHOON TEXAS

3 Lagoonfest Texas Boasting over 24 million gallons of crystal blue water, this lagoon located in Texas City features water activities, cabana rentals, bumper boats and white sand beaches. • Opened in May for 2026 season • Ticket pricing TBD, free (ages 2 and under) • 12600 Crystal View Blvd., Texas City • www.lagoonfesttexas.com 4 Margaritaville Lake Resort Situated alongside Lake Conroe, this resort features a 3-acre water park with a lazy river, splash zone, private beach, heated infinity and waterslide pools, water slides, hot tubs and swim-up bars. Day passes also grant access to mini-golf, arcade games and tennis and pickleball courts. • Open year-round • $20-$119 (day pass), free (ages 5 and younger) • 600 Margaritaville Parkway, Montgomery • www.margaritavilleresorts.com/margaritaville-lake- resort-lake-conroe 5 Pirates Bay Waterpark This pirate-themed water park in Baytown offers a wave pool, a lazy river, water slides and a surfing simulator. • Open daily beginning May 23; weekends only Aug. 15-Sept. 20 • $35.99 (daily admission), $79 (season pass) • 5300 East Road, Baytown • www.baytownpiratesbay.com

7 Schlitterbahn Galveston Waterpark Rivers connect three distinct park sections at this water park in Galveston, which features water slides, raft rides, pools, water coasters and water playgrounds. • Open select days May 2-Sept. 7 • $42-$90 (daily admission), $89-$150 (season pass) • 2109 Gene Lucas Blvd., Galveston • www.sixflags.com/schlitterbahngalveston 8 Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splashtown A surfing simulator, water slide racers and relaxing lagoons are just a few of the attractions at this water park in Spring. • Open select days May 2-Sept. 7 • $25-$60 (daily ticket), $65-$135 (season pass), free (ages 2 and under) • 21300 I-45 N., Spring • www.sixflags.com/splashtown 9 Typhoon Texas Waterpark Located in Katy, attractions at this water park include a lazy river, a wave pool, multiple water slides and activities for younger swimmers. • Open select days April 11-Sept. 20 • $39.99-$59.99 (any-day tickets), $64.99 (season

From water parks built for thrill-seekers to tranquil lagoons perfect for relaxing, there are several ways for Houston-area residents to cool off this summer. This list is not comprehensive. 1 Big Rivers Waterpark & Adventures Located in New Caney, this water park also features amusement park rides, an inflatable course, zip lines, ax-throwing, a maze, a gator exhibit and a petting zoo. • All water attractions open select days April 3-Sept. 30 • $44.99 (single-use day ticket April 3-Sept. 30), $99.99 (season pass), free (ages 2 and under) 2 Conroe Aquatic Center Water Park Conroe Aquatic Center’s water park has a capacity that is frequently reached and may result in a waitlist, per the website. Admission to the water park is not included with facility memberships; however, those with valid memberships receive half-price admission. • Open select days May 23-Sept. 6 • $10 (season pass or daily guest pass for ages 3 and older), $5 (membership admission for ages 3 and • 23101 Hwy. 242, New Caney • www.bigriverswaterpark.com

older), free (ages 2 and under) • 1207 Candy Cane Lane, Conroe • www.cityofconroe.org

passes), free (ages 2 and under) • 555 S. Katy Fort Bend Road, Katy • www.typhoontexas.com/houston

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Community

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN & LIZZY SPANGLER

‘His life and legacy will live on’: Community remembers Jimmie C. Edwards during public memorial service

Community members gathered at the Montgom- ery County Veterans Memorial Park on May 2 to remember the life of Jimmie C. Edwards. Edwards, who died March 31, was a Vietnam veteran, served as Montgomery County judge and state representative, and founded the Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Commission. “I just want to thank Jimmie and the Edwards family and also the commission that stood behind Jimmie during all of his vision,” state Rep. Will Metcalf said. “This is only the beginning. The best is yet to come. Although our founder and our spokes- person is no longer with us, his life and legacy will live on for many decades to come.” Two-minute impact The service included remarks from both Metcalf and Edwards’ wife, Debbie, as well as live music, including the national anthem, “Marines’ Hymn” and “God Bless America.” The memorial service concluded with a yover and an invitation to attendees to walk the park. “I look at this park, I look at this building, and I think, ‘It’ll be a long time before Jimmie’s name is forgotten,’” Debbie Edwards said. The big picture Montgomery County commissioners on April 9 approved a resolution honoring Edwards as a former county judge, U.S. Marine and founding leader of the Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park. The court also declared April 9 Judge Jimmie C. Edwards III Memorial Day in Montgomery County. Edwards was a lifelong Montgomery County resident. During the Vietnam War, he volunteered

“I look at this park ... and I think, ‘It’ll be a long time before Jimmie’s name is forgotten,’” said Debbie Edwards.

Jimmie C. Edwards founded the Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Commission.

LIZZY SPANGLERCOMMUNITY IMPACT

After being severely wounded in combat, Edwards was awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal with V for Valor and other citations for bravery and distinguished service.

JAMAAL ELLISCOMMUNITY IMPACT

for the U.S. Marine Corps and served with the Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Regiment, 1st Marine Division. After being severely wounded in combat, he was awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal with V for Valor and other citations for bravery. After returning home, Edwards continued serving the public. He represented Montgomery and Walker counties in the Texas House from 1973-81 and later served as Montgomery County judge from 1983-86, according to the resolution. “Known to many as a master storyteller, Jimmie had a rare gift for connecting people through humor, honesty, and lived experience,” his obituary

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Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park, 1776 Freedom Blvd., Conroe www.honoredmission.org

reads. “Whether sharing memories of service, family stories, or lessons learned along the way, he left those around him better for having listened.”

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CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Business

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

Montgomery artist shapes community with Lone Star Clay Studio To clay artist Dee Mangum, Lone Star Clay Studio is more than a business; it is her lifelong dream and a community outlet. How it happened Mangum said her passion with clay started during her childhood years playing with clay in her own backyard and experimenting with modeling clay. Although Mangum did not pursue an artistic career, as an undergrad, she began working at the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, making pottery for the museum’s exhibits. Today, she is the museum’s history demonstrator, where she teaches kids about Montgomery’s history while interacting with clay. In addition Mangum said her teaching experience comes from her time as a technology teacher. After retiring from teaching, Mangum said she opened Lone Star Clay Studio in May 2025. What’s special about it At Lone Star Clay Studio, Mangum walks people through hand-building clay. From the basics of clay to processing and glazing, Mangum teaches people of all skill levels. “Out of all the things that I make, when some- body comes to me and asks me to make an urn for one of their loved ones, I mean, that’s like the greatest honor,” Mangum said. “And so I made my parents’ [urns]. They’re both still living. So it feels kind of morbid, but they’re planning ahead ... and that’s probably some of the most special pieces I’ve made.”

At Lone Star Clay Studio, students are walked through all stages of clay art from hand-building clay to glazing.

COURTESY LONE STAR CLAY STUDIO

Private lessons and team-building services are among the studio’s oerings.

JOVANNA AGUILARCOMMUNITY IMPACT

105

LIBERTY ST.

308 Pond St., Ste. D, Montgomery www.lonestarclaystudio.com

Lone Star Clay Studio offers services for all skill levels.

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CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION

Education

Conroe ISD adopts special education plan At its April 21 regular board meeting, the Conroe ISD board of trustees adopted a new plan to decentralize its special education program for the 2026-27 school year. CISD Deputy Superintendent Ted Landry said special education students will return to their regularly zoned campuses, instead of being bused

Conroe ISD addresses bus seat belt needs The Conroe ISD board of trustees, on April 21, discussed the potential costs for address- ing the district bus fleet’s seat belt needs due to Senate Bill 546, which requires buses to have three-point seat belts by Sept. 1, 2029. The gist 53%, or 320, of CISD’s buses do not meet the new three-point seat belt safety require- ments. Assistant Superintendent of Oper- ations Chris McCord said retrofitting the buses would cost $10.2 million and buying 320 new buses would cost $54.09 million. CISD officials said the district doesn’t have funds available to replace the buses. The district will address this issue in the future, possibly through a master facilities plan, officials said.

Special education investments In addition to decentralizing special education instruction, CISD will invest $3.2 million in: $700,000: • 24 supporting teacher roles and position realignment

Total: $3.2M

$2.5 million: • 15 new dyslexia teachers • 4 new speech pathologists • 4 new diagnosticians • 4 new school psychologists

to central locations. About the program

SOURCE: CONROE ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Landry said the district’s special education population has increased by 15% over the past five years, with 11,911 special education students currently enrolled in the district. CISD also plans to invest $3.2 million into the special education program, by re-establishing 24 supporting teacher roles as well as adding 27 new special education teachers, Landry said.

Looking ahead The new homecoming plan is expected to reduce costs by eliminating eight bus routes in the district that had bused students to the centralized locations, saving an estimated $800,000. CISD confirmed that there will be no planned budget cuts for the special education budget or teacher positions.

BY COLE GEE

Conroe ISD projects $770M budget for FY 2026-27 Conroe ISD is projecting a balanced budget of $770.42 million for fiscal year 2026-27, according to an April 21 presentation by CISD Chief Financial Officer Karen Garza. Diving in deeper enrollment; the opening of three new campuses; a growing special education population; and the unknown impact of education savings accounts on students leaving the district.

Local education news 3 stories we’re following online

1 Montgomery ISD trustees approve $3.6 million for raises, stipends On April 21, MISD trustees approved $3.6 million for employee raises and stipends as part of the district’s 2026-27 compensation plan. 2 CISD OKs new software, plans for virtual school On April 21, CISD trustees approved the purchase of a new virtual school program named Subject, as well as planned changes to the current virtual program’s model, switching from a hybrid model to asynchronous. 3 Willis ISD projecting $104M budget for FY 2026-27 On April 21, WISD Chief Financial Officer Garrett Matej reviewed the district budget for the 2025- 26 and 2026-27 fiscal years. WISD will be able to fund a one-time employee stipend thanks to a budget surplus in FY 2025-26.

Garza projected an $8.36 million increase in both revenues and expenses compared to initial projections due to increases to local property taxes and state funding, as well as special education intensity formula changes due to House Bill 2. Per previous reporting, HB 2 gave an $8.4 billion boost to public educational funding. Due to the static enrollment, however, CISD projects to lose around $5 million-$9 million in funding in FY 2027-28, which Garza said could have “significant” implications on the planned opening of four new campuses across the district. Stay tuned Garza said CISD’s considerations for the 2026-27 proposed budget include factors such as student

Preliminary budget numbers FY 2025-26 budget $761.05M

FY 2026-27 proposed budget $770.42M

+$9.37M

FY 2025-26 Tax rates (per $100 valuation) $0.9496

FY 2026-27 (projected) $0.9348

-$0.0148

SOURCE: CONROE ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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CONROE 1304 W Davis

MONTGOMERY PLAZA 1420 N Loop 336 W (936) 441-7161 WILLIS 9618 FM 1097 (936) 228-0385

(936) 539-8787 NORTH CONROE 18434 Hwy 105 W (936) 582-5410

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