The Woodlands Edition | August 2024

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The Woodlands Edition VOLUME 13, ISSUE 12 AUG. 17 SEPT. 18, 2024

2024 Education Edition

Conroe ISD to add teachers, bridge $12M shortfall

Cuts projected in 202526 if trends continue

BY ANGELA BONILLA

Conroe ISD is looking to cover increasing costs and sta ng needs in the 2024-25 scal year despite a lack of increased state funding. The Texas Legislature designated $4 billion for public education funding in the 88th legislative session in 2023, but measures to provide that funding to schools failed to pass. CISD expects an $11.9 million budget shortfall in 2024-25 while still budgeting for a 2.5% employee raise. O cials said the district can cover the gap this year, but planning for the 2025-26 scal year may require other approaches. “December, January is when those decisions [to make cuts] are going to have to be made,” Superintendent Curtis Null said. A public hearing and vote on the budget and a tax rate of $0.9496 per $100 valuation will be held Aug. 20.

Amanda Schwausch, a second-grade teacher at Kaufman Elementary School, works with a student in her classroom. Teachers received raises in 202324 and 202425, but district ocials said current projections show CISD could lack sucient funds for raises in 202526.

CONTINUED ON 34

COURTESY CONROE ISD

Also in this issue Government: See how The Woodlands was aected by Hurricane Beryl (Page 17)

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INSIDE

Education: Learn about new school construction underway in Conroe ISD (Page 27)

As back-to-school season approaches, The Kink Team recommends establishing a consistent routine with ample sleep, nutritious meals, and organized study times to enhance focus. Foster open communication about any concerns and hold regular family check-ins for support. Gradually reintroduce school tasks, involve your child in goal-setting, and prepare materials to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s to a successful and joyful school year ahead! School Year WELCOMING THE

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It appears that given the slowdown of the consumer and the subsequent slowdown in economic growth that recent data is confirming, the Federal Reserve is likely to begin the process of lowering interest rates soon. What will this mean for the economy? What will this mean for your portfolio? These are questions that investors will be asking as we move through the second half of 2024. Added into that mix will be the election and how investors interpret what a win from either candidate means for both the economy and the markets (remember-not always the same). If you want a guiding hand through these interesting times, come in for a visit and let us help you prepare for whatever lies ahead. Also, you can sign up for our daily email to stay informed at all times. MONTHLY COMMENTARY For our daily commentary and all disclosures, visit www.chjwealthmanagement.com 10200 Grogan’s Mill Road, Suite 340 • 281-298-2700

THE WOODLANDS EDITION

AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2024

TOWNSHIP Talk

News, Information and Events in The Woodlands

Hurricane Beryl Recovery

November Elections are Right Around the Corner Register to vote by Monday, October 7, 2024, to participate in the November 5, 2024 election for The Woodlands Township Board of Directors. Positions 1, 2, 3, and 4 are up for election, each serving a two-year term. These roles involve making decisions that affect

The devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl has left a lasting impact on the Greater Houston region. As we continue the recovery process, our dedicated Parks and Streetscapes crews are working diligently every day in the summer heat to restore our parks, pathways and trails. We appreciate everyone’s patience as the county takes on the responsibility of storm debris removal, a process that will also require time and effort.

our community, such as setting property tax rates and improving our quality of life. Your vote will help guide the future of The Woodlands, so take

Not only did Beryl leave a significant mess, but it also left many residents without power for days, even weeks. CenterPoint Energy's response to the hurricane is being thoroughly reviewed at the state level. The Woodlands Township Board of Directors is residents' concerns are addressed at the capitol. The Board has also established an Ad Hoc Intergovernmental Relations Committee to represent our interests in these discussions. actively advocating for our community, ensuring that

this opportunity to ensure your voice is heard and contribute to the direction of our community.

Mark Your Calendars! THEWOODLANDSTOWNSHIPTX.GOV/ELECTION

Hotrods & Home Runs

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Additionally, to further refine our preparedness and response efforts, the Board formed an Ad Hoc Emergency Management Committee to assess the Township’s actions during and after the storm and identify areas for improvement. As we enter the peak of hurricane season, it’s essential for our community to remain alert and prepared for any potential storms. Our collective strength and resilience are evident. Together, we will continue to rebuild and come out stronger. Let's stay READY WOODLANDS and support each other as we face the rest of this hurricane season.

Sunday, September 15 3 to 7 p.m. McCullogh Jr. High School

Sunday, September 1 5 to 9 p.m. Waterway Square

Saturday, September 28 9 a.m. to noon Rob Fleming Recreation Center KNOW BETTER. GROW BETTER.

Registration Now Open The Parks and Recreation Action

The six spraygrounds in The Woodlands will remain open until October 31, Spraygrounds are Still Open! giving residents and visitors a chance to cool down on warm fall days. A select number of pools will stay open post-season hours on weekends until September 2. Get complete details at thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools

Guide is available online! Registration is open for fall

issuu.com/thewoodlandstownship calendar now for our 50th Anniversary Celebration Week, October 14-18 with a Grand Celebration on October 19. programs, sports, classes and more. Also be sure to mark your

STAY CONNECTED Talk of the Township eNews The Woodlands Community Magazine 311 Mobile App & More!

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THE WOODLANDS EDITION

Impacts

3 Vitality Oasis Wellness Center Owner Yelena Pavlenko said the wellness center held its grand opening Aug. 2. Services oered include infrared sauna therapy, cold plunge, salt therapy, breath work and health coaching. • Opened June 1 • 26119 I-45 N., Ste. 103, Spring • www.vitalityoasiswc.com 4 The Woodlands Christian Academy Fine Arts Center The private school’s new ne arts center includes a black box theater, an art studio, a dance studio, a choir hall, a band hall, classroom and other areas. • Opened Aug. 9 • 5800 Academy Way, The Woodlands • www.twca.net 5 GP Solutions The concrete company was launched by a team of young entrepreneurs specializing in concrete construction for projects such as driveways, foundations, parking lots and roadways. • Opened May 6 • 26009 Budde Road, Unit C, Spring • www.gableparrasolutions.com

Magnolia

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EGYPT LN.

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242

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The Woodlands

DAVID MEMORIAL DR.

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12 13

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WOODLOCH FOREST DR.

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BUDDE RD.

SAWDUST RD.

Coming soon

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6 Anytime Fitness The tness center’s memberships include a tness consultation, access to Apple Fitness, and personal group and training services. • Opening Sept. 9 • 3759 FM 1488, Ste. 250, The Woodlands • www.anytimeitness.com 7 The Brooklyn Cafe The cafe in Panther Creek Village Center announced on social media it is planning to open a second location in Creekside Park. The deli-style cafe oers a variety of bagels and toppings as well as sandwiches and coee. • Opening in early 2025 • 8522 Creekside Drive, Ste. D-100, The Woodlands • www.thebrooklyncafe.com

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2 16 8

Spring

MAP NOT TO SCALE

2 Bricks and Minigs The store specializing in aftermarket sales of Lego gures and bricks has a local franchise location owned by Abe and Jessica Hughes. • Opened Aug. 3 • 385 Sawdust Road, Ste. A, Spring • www.bricksandminiigs.com

Now open

1 Toastello The cafe oers traditional coees such as espresso and cappuccino as well as breakfast. • Opened July 1 • 1575 Sawdust Road, Spring • Facebook: Toastello

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12 Shoe Palace Work on the 4,470-square-foot space in The Woodlands Mall for the store will be completed in mid-2025, according to a ling with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The business oers shoes, apparel, and accessories. • 1201 Lake Woodlands Drive, Ste. 1218, The Woodlands • www.shoepalace.com 13 Pandora The ne jewelry retailer will undergo a $650,150 renovation and is expected to nish by spring 2025, according to a ling with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. • 1201 Lake Woodlands Drive, Ste. 1140, The Woodlands • www.pandora.net 14 Woodland Lane Ceramics and Art Studio Artist Jesse Lane is adding weekly classes in The Woodlands area to Woodland Lane Ceramics and Art Studio. Students will learn about art elements such as how to use texture, color theory, light and shadow.

Burns & Wilcox The wholesale insurance brokerage rm announced in a June 20 news release it will expand its o£ces into The Woodlands. The o£ce address has not been nalized as of press time. • Opening in late 2024 • Location TBD • www.burnsandwilcox.com

Now open

Expansions

8 Era Pickleball The pickleball venue announced it will expand by adding ve courts, a kids’ section and a bar. • Expanding this fall • 295 Sawdust Road, The Woodlands • www.erapickleball.com 9 Walmart Renovations are underway at the Walmart location to expand the pickup area as well as other upgrades throughout the store. Work began in mid-July, according to a news release. • Expanding in November • 2040 College Park Drive, Conroe • www.walmart.com

18 Che Tano Argentine Cuisine Che Tano Argentine Cuisine owner and chef Janina Kendall said the restaurant is open Tuesdays through Saturdays. According to the business’ Facebook page, it opened in late May and is oering specialty items including empanadas, grilled meats and baked goods as well as catering services. • Opened in late May • 24211 Kuykendahl Road, Tomball • www.orderchetano.com

• 33218 Sweetgum Lane, Magnolia • www.woodlandlaneceramics.com

15 Royal Orchard Thai Massage and Spa The business, which celebrated its rst anniversary in August, provides traditional and Thai massage, full body

In the news

exfoliation and pregnancy massage. • 26107 I-45, Ste. A, The Woodlands • www.royalorchidthaimassagespa.com

10 America’s ER & Urgent Care The ER and urgent care located along FM 2978 celebrated 10 years in business in July, Chief Operating O£cer Alisann Schweiker conrmed via email. The business rst opened July 28, 2014. • 32784 FM 2978, Magnolia • www.americaser.com/locations/magnolia-woodlands 11 Waterway Plaza II Howard Hughes Holdings Inc. announced on June 28 it had acquired the six-story Waterway Plaza II in The Woodlands Town Center. The building is located on a 1.32-acre site and has a 1,316-space parking lot, according to a news release. • 10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, The Woodlands • www.thewoodlands.com

Closings

16 Best in Class Education Center The tutoring business, which has a location in The Woodlands area, celebrates its 10th anniversary in early 2025. • 375 Sawdust Road, Spring • www.bestinclasseducation.com 17 Terra Vino Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar The restaurant, which serves contemporary Italian cuisine made from scratch, celebrated its rst anniversary July 26. • 2520 Research Forest Drive, Ste. 500, The Woodlands • www.orioli.com

19 HeBrews Coee The owners announced on the business website The Woodlands location of the cafe was closed. • Closed July 15 • 26403 Oak Ridge Drive, Ste. A, Spring • www.hebrewslocalcoffee.com 20 El Tiempo Cantina The restaurant closed at Market Street, the center’s marketing director Noemi Gonzalez conrmed. • Closed July 2 • 9595 Six Pines Drive, Ste. 1110, The Woodlands • www.eltiempocantina.com

THE WOODLANDS EDITION

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Impacts

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

242

Now open

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HARPER'S TRACE

1314

Shenandoah

OAK RIDGE SCHOOL RD.

Tamina

HANNA RD.

R O B I N S O N R D .

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5 Cookie Co. Cookie Co., a specialized cookie company which provides a rotating variety of cookies on a weekly basis, opened a new location in Spring. The new location will provide six dierent cookie varieties each week including avors like chocolate chip, s’mores, frosted sugar and peanut butter candy explosion. • Opened July 18 • 2222 Rayford Road, Ste. 104, Spring • www.cookieco.com

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99 TOLL

ALDINE WESTFIELD RD.

WOODSON'S RESERVE PKWY.

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Spring

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ramen, including pork, chicken and vegetable, according to its website. The location will also feature Tbaar

Now open

drinks, Visit Shenandoah ocials said. • Opening in mid-September to October • 8821 Metropark Drive, Shenandoah • www.kyuramen.com 6 Memorial Hermann-GoHealth Urgent Care

Coming soon

1 Pizza Twist The restaurant oers wings, salads, pasta, traditional pizzas and Indian-fusion pizzas. • Opened July 22 • 9662 Hwy. 242, Ste. 300, Conroe • www.pizzatwist.com 2 Yori Wow Korean Food The Korean food store features fresh items such as bulgogi, kimbap and spicy pork belly as well as a variety of packaged snacks. • Opened in July • 990 Rayford Road, Ste. 102, Spring

3 McCowan Industrial Park A new industrial park is now leasing in The Woodlands area, providing 9,900- and 6,600-square-foot industrial ex spaces. The spaces feature 14-by-14-foot rollup doors and ceiling heights of about 20 feet. • Opening in late August • 27435 Oak Ridge School Road, Conroe • 713-539-8588 4 Kyuramen The Japanese ramen restaurant serves several styles of

A new Memorial Hermann-GoHealth Urgent Care location will oer patients treatment for non-life- threatening conditions and services such as X-rays, sports physicals and vaccines. • Opening in late October • 10140 Hwy. 242, Conroe • www.gohealthuc.com/memorialhermann

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THE WOODLANDS EDITION

Events

• www.lmctx.org

August

Salute to First Responders Annual Blood Drive

Invasive Species workshop The Woodlands Township event will feature a lesson on how invasive species degrade local ecosystems. • Aug. 17, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. • Free • The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., The Woodlands • www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov Bridgerton Brunch Dance Spot Dance Studio and MamDivas Social Club are holding a brunch featuring food, dance performances, a makeup class, dancing and an interactive photo shoot. • Aug. 18, noon-3 p.m. • $120 • Dance Spot Dance Studio, 26842 I-45 N., The Woodlands • www.dancespotusa.com Comedy show Dosey Doe-The Big Barn is holding a comedy show featuring comedian Shelly Belly. • Aug. 18, 7:30 p.m. • $24-$32 • Dosey Doe Big Barn, 25911 I-45, Spring • www.doseydoetickets.com Manga Meet-up The South County Library holds a shojo manga group for teens age 13-17, which means girls’ comics. • Aug. 22, 4-5:30 p.m. • Free (admission) • South Regional Library, 2101 Lake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands • www.countylibrary.org Leadership Montgomery County Summit The event will include a lesson on teamwork and collaboration while showcasing speakers. • Aug. 23, 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. • $125 (individual ticket), $1,000 (table of eight) • The Jett Center at Woodforest Bank Stadium, 19043 David Memorial Drive, Shenandoah

The annual blood drive held by The Woodlands Township requires registration and takes place by appointment. • Aug. 29, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. • Free • The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., The Woodlands • www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov White Linen Party A benet for Children’s Books on Wheels will feature a live band, auction items and dancing. • Aug. 31, 7:30-11:30 p.m. • $65 (per person) • Sleepy Hollow Multipurpose Building, 9845 Sleepy Hollow Road, Conroe • www.childrensbooksonwheels.org

• Sept. 7, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. • $225 (registration for residents), $235 (registration for non-residents) • Gosling Sports Fields, 4055 Marsico Place, The Woodlands • www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov Young Makers Market The Woodlands Arts Council is holding a market featuring artistic creations sold by students ages 8-18 in the one-day arts festival. • Sept. 7, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. • Free (admission) • Market Street, 9595 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands • www.thewoodlandsartscouncil.org National Honey Bee Day In honor of National Honey Bee Day, The Woodlands Children’s Museum is presenting facts about bees while allowing children to safely meet a few insects in person. • Aug. 17, 2-3 p.m. • $9 (museum admission) • The Woodlands Children’s Museum, 4775 W. Panther Creek Drive, Ste. 280, The Woodlands • www.woodlandschildrensmuseum.org

September

Cars & Co ee for a Cause Market Street is holding a car show featuring classic vehicles and hot rods to benet local nonprot organizations in Montgomery County. • Sept. 1, 6:30-10 a.m. • Free (admission) • Market Street, 9595 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands • www.shopatmarketstreet.com Labor Day in The Woodlands The celebration features live music, children’s activities, strolling entertainment, pie eating contests and reworks. • Sept. 1, 5-9 p.m. • Free • Waterway Square, 31 Waterway Square Place, The Woodlands • www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov Women’s Soccer Tournament The Woodlands Township is hosting its rst women’s soccer tournament.

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Class Act Productions Gala 2024 Class Act Productions, based in The Woodlands area, is holding a gala that will feature dinner, performances, and live and silent auctions to celebrate the theater and its educational programs. • Aug. 25, 5 p.m. • $150 (adult individual ticket), $75 (children under 18) • Madera Estates, 3201 N. Frazier St., Conroe • www.classactproductions.org

Community Garden Day The Woodlands Township is holding a Community Garden Day focused on planting native species and learning about water-saving techniques. The event will be located at Alspaugh’s Ace Hardware.

• Sept. 7, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. • Free • Alspaugh’s Ace Hardware, 10860 Kuykendahl Road, The Woodlands • www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

THE WOODLANDS EDITION

Events

• Aug. 23: Sammy Hagar, 7 p.m. • Aug. 24: Earth, Wind & Fire and Chicago, 7:30 p.m. • Aug. 25: Train and REO Speedwagon, 6:25 p.m. • Aug. 29: Thirty Seconds to Mars, 7 p.m. • Aug. 30: Falling In Reverse, 6:15 p.m. • Aug. 31: Dan and Shay, 7 p.m. • Sept. 6: Imagine Dragons, 7 p.m. • Sept. 14: Creed, 7 p.m. • Sept. 15: Rob Zombie with Alice Cooper, 6 p.m. • Sept. 18: Once Upon a Symphony, 7:30 p.m. Dosey Doe-The Big Barn 25911 I-45, Spring www.doseydoetickets.com • Aug. 17: Shay Domann, 8:30 p.m. • Aug. 21: Sunny Sweeney with Kyle Hutton, 8 p.m. • Aug. 22: International String Masters Tour, 7:30 p.m. • Aug. 24: Seger System, 8:30 p.m. • Aug. 25: Collin Raye, 7:30 p.m. • Aug. 29: Jacob Stelly, 8:30 p.m. • Aug. 30: Josh Weathers with Mike McClure, 8:30 p.m. • Aug. 31: Def Leggend, 8:30 p.m. • Sept. 1: Jeff Canada, 7:30 p.m. • Sept. 5: Zac Wilkerson, 8:30 p.m. • Sept. 6: Rick Braun, 8:30 p.m. • Sept. 7: Already Gone, 8:30 p.m. • Sept. 9: Houston Jazz Orchestra, 7:30 p.m. • Sept. 11: Crash Test Dummies, 8 p.m. • Sept. 12: Too Much To Say, 8:30 p.m. • Sept. 13: Riders In The Sky, 8:30 p.m. • Sept. 14: McBride & The Ride, 8:30 p.m. • Sept. 18: Braxton Keith with Kyle Hutton, 8 p.m. Dosey Doe Breakfast, BBQ & Whiskey Bar 2626 Research Forest Drive, Ste. B, The Woodlands www.doseydoetickets.com • Aug. 17: Brian Kalinec, 8 p.m.

Live music

Back Table 2301 N. Millbend Drive, The Woodlands www.backtabletx.com • Aug. 17: Isaiah Rangel, 6 p.m. • Aug. 23: Becca Ciribelli, 6 p.m. • Aug. 24: Kyonte Vincent, 6 p.m. • Aug. 30: Aaron Taylor, 6 p.m. • Aug. 31: Ben Garcia, 6 p.m. • Sept. 6: Caretta Bell, 6 p.m. • Sept. 7: Becca Ciribelli, 6 p.m. • Sept. 13: J Metro, 6 p.m. • Sept. 14: Ben Garcia, 6 p.m. Cellar 24 6700 Woodlands Parkway, The Woodlands www.cellar-24.com

• Aug. 23: Scott Morrison, 7 p.m. • Aug. 30: Austin Bradshaw, 7 p.m. • Sept. 6: Scott Morrison, 7 p.m. • Sept. 13: Duane Dulane, 7 p.m. Como Social Club 2 Waterway Square Place, The Woodlands www.comosocialclub.com • Aug. 17: Amanda Funes, Bryce Shaver & Colby Beserra, 9 p.m. • Aug. 23: Justin Cellum, Adriana Nunez & Isaiah Rangel, 9 p.m. • Aug. 24: Luke Whitney, Becca Ciribelli & Colby Beserra, 9 p.m. • Aug. 30: Justin Cellum, Veronica Rosales & Isaiah Rangel, 9 p.m. • Aug. 31: Becca Ciribelli, Bryce Shaver & Colby Beserra, 9 p.m. • Sept. 6: Becca Ciribelli & Bryce Shaver, 9 p.m. • Sept. 7: Celeste Arrazolo & Isaiah Rangel, 9 p.m. • Sept. 13: Isaiah Rangel & Adriana Nunez, 9 p.m. • Sept. 14: Amanda Funes & Colby Beserra, 9 p.m. The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion 2005 Lake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands www.woodlandscenter.org • Aug. 17: Deep Purple, 6:30 p.m. • Aug. 22: Stone Temple Pilots, 7 p.m.

Sunny Sweeney is performing with Kyle Hutton at Dosey Doe-The Big Barn on Aug. 21.

COURTESY SUNNY SWEENEY

• Aug. 30: Sarah Kelly Music School, 6 p.m. • Sept. 6: Sarah Kelly Music School, 6 p.m. • Sept. 13: Sarah Kelly Music School, 6 p.m. Sawyer Park Ice House 314 Pruitt Road, Spring www.sawyerpark.com • Aug. 23: Austin Meade, 8 p.m. • Sept. 7: Ole 60, 8 p.m. • Sept. 12: Kolby Cooper with Payton Howie, 7 p.m.

• Aug. 22: Jackson Wendell, 8 p.m. • Aug. 24: Scott Strickland, 8 p.m. • Aug. 28: JM Stevens, 7:30 p.m. • Aug. 29: Katrina Cain, 8 p.m. • Aug. 30: Caleb Lane, 8 p.m. • Sept. 6: Erick Willis, 8 p.m. • Sept. 13: Wesley Hanna, 8 p.m. Market Street 9595 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands www.shopatmarketstreet.com • Aug. 23: Sarah Kelly Music School, 6 p.m.

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Def Leggend is performing at Dosey Doe-The Big Barn on Aug. 31.

Wesley Hanna are performing at Dosey Doe Breakfast, BBQ & Whiskey Bar on Sept. 13.

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COURTESY WESLEY HANNA

THE WOODLANDS EDITION

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Government

BY JESSICA SHORTEN

Parks, businesses see lasting impact from Hurricane Beryl

Magnolia

The Woodlands’ Parks and Recreation Department was still clearing hurricane debris in early August, and township ocials on July 30 told the Texas Legislature local businesses were still feeling the eects of extended closures following Hurricane Beryl. “Many small-business owners, particularly those in CenterPoint’s area with prolonged outages, have reported crushing nancial burdens due to the extended closures,” township board of directors Chair Ann Snyder said during in-person testimony in Austin July 30. In addition, Chief Operating Ocer Chris Nunes told ocials at a July 18 board of directors meeting that 12 township parks and the George Mitchell Nature Preserve Bridge sustained around $2 million in damage from the storm that hit the region on July 8. Nunes said as of Aug. 8 the timeline for completion for those repairs was still uncertain.

Township parks damaged by Hurricane Beryl

1488

1 Avalon Park 2 Black Knight Park 3 Evangeline Oaks Park 4 Forestgate Park 5 Grogan's Point Park 6 Harpers Landing Park 7 Lehigh Springs Park 8 Meadowlake Park

6 12

2978

242

VISION PARK BLVD.

The Woodlands

RESEARCH FOREST DR.

DAVID MEMORIAL DR.

9 Spring Hill Park 10 Tamarac Park of The Woodlands 11 Tapestry Park 12 Wimberly Park

BRANCH CROSSING DR.

NORTHGATE DR.

RED SABLE DR.

E. PANTHER CREEK DR.

GROGANS MILL RD.

GROGANS POINT DR.

CREEKSIDE FOREST DR.

SOURCE: THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIPCOMMUNITY IMPACT

In their words

Going forward

The 89th Texas Legislature will begin on Jan. 14 and run through June 2, pending any additional special sessions called by Gov. Greg Abbott. Any bills proposing changes based on the eects of Hurricane Beryl will not be able to be led until the rst day of the o cial legislative session. However, in testimony provided to the Senate on July 29, Snyder said township o cials would like to have some kind of x implemented by the end of the session for future hurricanes. “I’m asking you, on behalf of all of us, everyone who was aected throughout the Greater Houston area, I implore that something must be done. Change must happen,” Snyder said. Timeline July 15: The Public Utility of Commission of Texas announced formal investigation into CenterPoint Energy July 17: The Special Senate Committee on Hurricane and Tropical Storm Preparedness, Recovery and Electricity was created. July 29: Special committee begins meeting Jan. 14: The 89th Texas Legislature will convene.

“We are still working o of the derecho two months ago from [collecting] debris. So this is a double hit that we’re working on.” CHRIS NUNES, CHIEF

“Some of the most powerful politicians and legislators in the state are very

upset [about the outages]. So we want to make sure ... they know what our position and desires are.” KYLE WATSON, VICE CHAIR, THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OPERATING OFFICER, THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

What residents should know

during one of the hearings on July 29. “As a result, our township sta resorted to regularly driving our CenterPoint service area to report operable street lights to give us somewhat of a reliable indicator that power had been restored.” Township members also approved forming a governmental ad hoc committee to provide input to the state Legislature during proceedings. “This is not anything that’s going to happen overnight, and it’s also not anything that’s guaranteed,” board director Brad Bailey said.

Township board members have focused on potentially working with the Texas Legislature in 2025 to address power outages. On July 24, the board approved a lobbying contract with Williams Public A airs to provide services for a number of special hearings being held in Austin through October regarding CenterPoint Energy’s handling of the power outages. “CenterPoint displayed static maps that were commonly inaccurate to say the least,” Snyder said

SOURCES: PUBLIC UTILITY COMMISSION OF TEXAS, TEXAS LEGISLATURE COMMUNITY IMPACT

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Government

BY ANGELA BONILLA & JESSICA SHORTEN

Parks campus to get $4.3M upgrade The Woodlands Township board voted July 24 to approve the design for a $4.3 million expansion of the Parks and Recreation Department and Environmental Services campus. The details The department’s master plan includes an additional 4,500 square feet of oce space, adding to the current 11,400 square feet available at the facility. John McGowan, director of the Parks and Recreation Department, said the township already allocated $1.74 million to the project, and the department is seeking the remaining funding during the township’s August budget workshops. However, McGowan requested $396,510.25 to allow Hal Associates to proceed with the bidding process, which township members approved unanimously. Stay tuned The renovation is expected to begin in 8-12 months and take 12-16 months to complete, McGowan said.

Shenandoah approves $9.5M for Tamina work Shenandoah City Council approved two contracts at its July 10 meeting for the ongoing Tamina infrastructure project, which will pro- vide water and sewer service to the community. The action taken City Council unanimously approved a $7.3 million contract to go to SC2 Sequeria Civil Construction for drilling a new Jasper aquifer groundwater well and construction of a water plant, according to the meeting agenda. The second contract will be awarded to Phoe- nix Fabricators and Erectors Inc. at $2.31 million for the construction of Water Plant No. 5. The construction will be for a tall elevated water tank similar to the Shenandoah water tank, according to the meeting agenda. An amendment was also passed adding $646,320 for engineering fees for the Tamina project, Public Works Director Joseph Peart said. How we got here Following a joint eort between Montgomery County and the city in 2023, $21 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds were allocated Oak Ridge North OKs tax agreement Oak Ridge North City Council approved a Chapter 380 agreement with Transco Ready Mix on June 10 to move the concrete com- pany’s headquarters to the city’s Commerce Park. What you need to know The agreement outlines a ve-year period in which a percentage of sales tax collected will be returned to the company. The move is set to start in the fall.

TAMINA RD.

Water Plant No. 5

to bring in new water and sewer infrastructure in the unincorporated community of Tamina. An additional $550,000 was allocated by the city to fund grant eorts. The city has stated the project will be com- pleted in 2026. What they’re saying “When we approved this project a year ago, we all realized ... that this may be the most important vote that we take in our entire political lives because we’re ... seriously helping people in need,” council member Jim Pollard said. “It’s a huge statement from the county to the credibility of Shenandoah that we would be asked to be the caretakers [of the project],” council member Frank Robinson said. County expects 202425 $21.68M budget increase In a presentation reviewing the scal year 2024- 25 preliminary budget for Montgomery County on July 23, commissioners were informed of a projected $21.68 million increase in expenditures and more than 100 new position requests. Budget workshops will be held in August. Zooming in Montgomery County Budget Director Amanda Carter said there were 116 new personnel requests from county departments; however, Carter only included 28 of the positions in the budget. Montgomery County Tax Assessor-Collector Tammy McRae will provide proposed tax rates during the budget workshops in August, after

Operational increases include: Economic development

$2.99M

Jail food service and medical

$2.44M

Utilities

$912,116

Montgomery Central Appraisal District

$734,000

SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

commissioners will need to consider this year is the cost of software upgrades to the Criminal Justice Information System. Funds are no longer set aside in the Capital Improvement Fund for system enhancements, she said. “Renewals are nally hitting the IT budget,” Carter said. “You’re seeing some big increases there. Microsoft has increased their rates across the world. So it’s not just particular to Montgomery County.” Carter said no cost-of-living increases had been factored into the preliminary budget.

COMMERCE OAKS DR.

press time. What else? Carter said an additional expense

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Environment

BY MELISSA ENAJE

Hurricane Beryl’s impact left around half a million CenterPoint customers without power for at least ve days after the hurricane landed on July 8. Eight Harris County fatalities were attributed to heat exposure due to power outages, according to July 24 data from the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences. From July until December, investigations and formal hearings are ongoing into CenterPoint Energy and other Greater Houston-area utility providers’ emergency response and preparedness eorts for the storm. Meanwhile, a new 13-member Texas Senate Special Committee was formed July 17 and tasked with studying power companies’ hurricane and storm preparedness. The committee rst met July 29, asking why more than 2 million Houston-area residents lost power and why it took weeks to restore it. The hearing was held as Texas policymakers continued investigations into how various utility companies performed not only in the wake of Beryl, but also the derecho wind storm that hit Houston in May, knocking out power for nearly 1 million CenterPoint customers. While appearing in front of Texas public utility commissioners on July 25, CenterPoint Energy executives laid out a three-phase resiliency plan with details and deadlines as early as Aug. 1. CenterPoint’s plan focuses on three priorities: • Customer communications • Resiliency investments • Strengthened partnerships CenterPoint releases resiliency plan after Beryl

The action taken

In what may be the rst sta action related to Beryl, Lynnae Wilson, CenterPoint’s senior vice president of electric business, is no longer with the company as of July 29, according to an email from CenterPoint media ocials. In a July 28 publicly advertised letter, CenterPoint CEO Jason Wells apologized for falling short of customer expectations during times of emergency. Wells also outlined immediate actions to improve not only future response and restoration eorts, but

also customer and public-facing communications. CenterPoint Energy’s resiliency plan includes prioritizing power restoration and temporary generator deployment for critical facilities. The top ve general priority levels for mobile generator deployment include: • Hospitals • Emergency services & Houston airports • Cooling centers • Senior/assisted living facilities • Small emergency rooms

CenterPoint Energy's 3-phase timeline to implement resiliency improvements*

Completed

Phase 1

Phase 2

Phase 3

Immediately

By Aug. 15

By Dec. 31

Prioritize restoration and temporary generation deployment for critical facilities, including critical care facilities, water utilities

Harden nearly 350 distribution line miles to the latest extreme wind standard; CenterPoint is replacing wooden towers with steel and concrete towers

Complete all aerial imagery and visual inspections on all over- head distribution circuits aected by Beryl to identify equipment or vegetation-related issues that could impact future outages Informed by the Texas governor’s oce, CenterPoint will execute identied repairs based on risk Increase call center capacity by 165% for storm events with a standard average answer speed of 5 minutes or less

Launch initial public communi- cations earlier in the storm cycle

Hire two new senior leaders: one for emergency preparedness and response and one for communications

By Aug. 1

By Aug. 31

By June 1, 2025

Launch a new cloud-based

Leverage AI and implement changes to accelerate dispatch of vegetation crews to immediately address higher-risk vegetation issues through Dec. 31 Remove 100% of vegetation from the 2,000 incremental distribution lines considered to be at a higher-risk due to vegetation Deploy 300 automated devices to reduce sustained interruptions and reduce restoration time By Sept. 30 Select sites for up to 10 donated backup generator facilities

Install donated backup generator facilities

storm outage tracker

Increase mobile generators

from four to 13 units

Adopt a daily press brieng policy before and during a named storm, and daily restoration updates, during the press brieng

By Aug. 9

Coordinate more closely with local, county and state ocials as well as emergency management personnel to align response eorts

Number of customers without power 2.5M CenterPoint Energy Hurricane Beryl outages

What to expect

Impact , CenterPoint did not provide information on how much the new plan will cost the company and its customers. The state could take action on energy legislation next legislative session as Senate committee members on July 29 looked into what new regulations or legislation they can enact to keep similar circumstances from happening again. While no further Senate committee meetings on hurricane preparedness are scheduled for this year, the PUC’s nal investigation report will be delivered to the governor and Legislature for review by Dec. 1.

CenterPoint originally led a $2.2 billion-$2.7 billion resiliency plan with the PUC for its long- term sustainability eorts on April 29, prior to the derecho and Beryl outages. Internal July 24 communication between Wells and Gov. Greg Abbott indicated Wells enacted stricter deadlines to CenterPoint’s original resiliency plan, which required reling with the PUC in order to meet the new strategies, Wells said. By Aug. 1, the company withdrew its PUC ling and announced it needs to complete a broader assessment of additional resiliency opportunities. In an email with Community

2.2M

2M 1.5M 1M 500K 0

4,713

Hurricane Beryl lands

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