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Township Board Discusses TxDOT 242 Project, Supplemental Law Enforcement Services Contract

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THE WOODLANDS, TX – The Woodlands Township Board of Directors held a regular meeting on Wednesday, February 22, 2023. The Board discussed a variety of topics including the SH 242 project from FM 1488 to Interstate 45, the agreement for supplemental law enforcement services with Montgomery County, appraisal services for the former GE Betz building and the December 2022 Financial Report. 

During the Regular Agenda, the Board received an update regarding the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) SH 242 project from FM 1488 to Interstate 45. Following feedback from elected officials and the public in 2022, TxDOT announced that they would be modifying the design of the SH 242 project to eliminate the additional lanes and to make improvements within the existing roadway, including left and right turn improvements at 13 intersections. TxDOT will be hosting a virtual public meeting opportunity from Tuesday, March 7, 2023, through Friday, March 24, 2023. In addition, TxDOT will host an in-person public meeting at The Woodlands College Park High School on Thursday, March 9, 2023. Public comment must be received or postmarked by Friday, March 24, 2023.

 

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The Board also discussed drainage concerns, future landscaping and the potential for connecting Harper’s Landing via walkways relating to this project. After discussion, the Board designated Vice Chairman Kyle Watson to serve as the liaison to TxDOT, with Treasurer Richard Franks designated as alternate.  View the TxDOT Report  |  View TxDot Meeting Notice

The Board received and accepted an update from President/CEO Monique Sharp regarding the Interlocal Cooperation Agreement with Montgomery County for Supplemental Law Enforcement Services. Per the agreement with Montgomery County, the Township funds the 92 personnel dedicated to patrolling The Woodlands along with associated vehicles, fuel and an overtime program. The current contract is set to renew annually through 2025.

The Board also discussed appraisal services for 9669 Grogan’s Mill Road (former GE Betz property). In 2015, the Township acquired the 11.65-acre tract located at 9669 Grogan’s Mill Road from GE Betz. The property was initially leased back to GE Betz until they completed construction of a new facility. The lease expired in 2018, and GE Betz vacated the property. The building is currently under demolition due to asbestos and other environmental hazards. The Board of Directors authorized the President/CEO to acquire contract appraisal services to determine the commercial value of the property.

The Board approved an amendment to the 2023 Budget in an amount equal to $15,089,246 to account for 2022 capital project carryovers and $20,000 for 2022 operating budget carryovers. The budget amendment does not impact the overall cash position of The Woodlands Township as it merely reflects the transfer of approved but unexpended funds from one budget year to the next. Some of the projects that are ongoing are renovations to Falconwing Park including the addition of pickleball courts and Phase I Improvements identified in the 2022 Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment. During the meeting, the Board approved the 2023 swimming pool schedule for Township pools, with no changes to the pool fee structure.

 

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The Board also received a Financial Report from Director of Finance Kellan Shaw for December 2022.  View the Financial Report.

On the Consent Agenda, which consists of routine housekeeping items that do not require Board discussion, the Board approved the minutes from the January 19, 2023 Regular Meeting, and the January 25, 2023 Regular Meeting; received reports regarding Law Enforcement and Community Policing. The Board also approved a revised Interlocal Agreement with Montgomery County for Interim Funding of the Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3 and a related budget amendment; amended the Service Agreement between the Township and Visit The Woodlands; approved a proposal for plaster work at Wendtwoods and Cranebrook Pools; and approved a proposal from USA Shade Structure for an awning for the Bear Branch Park multi-purpose sports court.

The Board recessed to Executive Session and, upon reconvening, took no action.

Representatives from the Village Associations also provided reports. Members of the public were able to address the Board at the start of the meeting.

The Woodlands Township Board Meetings may be attended in person, watched live online, or viewed later via recording at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/meetingvideos. The agenda and attachments may be viewed at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/991/Agendas-Minutes-and-More.

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