Conroe City Council could move forward with new playground equipment for the Oscar Johnson Jr. Enrichment and Recreation Center while taking the next step toward potentially bringing the proposed U.S. Space Academy to the city.
Council members are scheduled to meet Sept. 24.
What you need to know
The council will reconsider proposed playground equipment for the OJJERC after delaying the purchase in June over concerns that the nearly $90,000 option was too small for the number of children served by the center.
The previous proposal included a shaded play structure, an ADA-accessible ramp and engineered wood fiber surfacing. Council members asked staff to return with other possibilities, which could include a larger playground, a phased plan or a different budget direction.
The replacement is needed after equipment from the former community center was damaged while being moved to the new facility, as previously reported.
The council could also award a contract to repair the Owen Theatre marquee. Mayor Duke Coon asked staff in June to explore repairing or replacing the downtown theater’s sign, and a bid for that project is on the agenda.
A closer look
Following a closed executive session, council members could take action on a potential national economic development opportunity and related real estate matters. The item was requested by council members David Hairel and Shana Arthur.
Hairel and Arthur previously asked the city to explore whether Conroe could compete to host the proposed U.S. Space Academy, pointing to Deison Technology Park as a potential location.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order Aug. 28 creating a commission to develop plans for the NASA-led academy. NASA is seeking information from states interested in hosting the institution, with each state allowed to submit one response by Oct. 26.
Also on the agenda
Council members could award $195,000 in fiscal year 2026-27 Conroe Convention and Visitors Bureau arts and cultural grants. The council awarded $210,000 through the program for FY 2025-26, according to prior reporting.
Other items include:
Consider Christmas lights in Founders Plaza. The city also launched Christmas at Candy Cane Park in 2025 as a drive-thru holiday light experience.
Award a $20,000 special marketing grant to the Conroe Cajun Catfish Festival. The festival moved out of downtown Conroe after the council cited fire and security concerns in 2024.
Consider appointing a director of information technology.
Review amendments to the FY 2025-26 operating and capital improvement program budgets.
Before you go
The council will meet at 9:30 a.m. at Conroe City Hall, 300 W. Davis St.
