Conroe City Council members could take action on several items that may eventually head to voters during their Aug. 13 meeting, including proposals related to residential lot sizes, firefighter collective bargaining and the city’s continued use of automated license plate reader systems.
What residents should know
Council members David Hairel and Shana Arthur are bringing forward two potential November ballot items. One would ask voters whether Conroe should establish a minimum lot size of 65 feet wide by 120 feet deep for new residential subdivisions. Under the proposal, exceptions would require City Council approval following public notice and a hearing.
Hairel and Arthur are also proposing a binding referendum that would allow Conroe voters to weigh in on the continued use of ALPR systems, which Flock cameras are classified as. According to the agenda, council action is needed Aug. 13 ahead of an Aug. 17 ballot submission deadline.
Council member Kristin Hoisington and Mayor Pro Tem John Sellars are separately requesting discussion and possible action on calling an election Nov. 3, 2026, or May 1, 2027, asking voters whether Conroe should adopt collective bargaining for city firefighters.
Also on the agenda
Council members will consider an ordinance establishing city regulations for the permitting, construction, operation, decommissioning and public transparency of data center facilities. The council is also scheduled to discuss appointments for Conroe’s community development director and public works director positions.
Budget discussions will continue as council receives updates on the proposed fiscal year 2026-27 budget and considers proposing a property tax rate of $0.4272 per $100 valuation.
Hairel and Arthur are also requesting a report detailing how much the city has spent defending the election contest lawsuit filed by Sellars over voter-approved 2025 City Charter amendments. The item calls for information on attorney fees, court costs and other expenses, as well as an estimate of potential additional costs if the case continues through the appeals process.
The council will meet at 6 p.m. at Conroe City Hall, 300 W. Davis St.
