Summary of 2018 Accomplishments - The Woodlands Township
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Summary of 2018 Accomplishments
The Woodlands Township Board of Directors
The Woodlands Township Board of Directors, left to right: Director Brian Boniface, Treasurer John Anthony Brown, Director Carol Stromatt,
Chairman Gordy Bunch, Secretary Dr. Ann Snyder, Director Bruce Rieser and Vice Chairman John McMullan.
The Woodlands Vision
The Woodlands, our dynamic hometown within a natural forest, is known for its balance between man and nature.
We are a thriving business community and a premier destination for visitors – a place where generations live, work,
learn and play. The Woodlands…
…is a place where we feel safe and secure.
…achieves prosperity by promoting economic development and quality of life.
…cultivates the relationship between urban needs and George Mitchell’s vision of environmental sustainability.
…provides premier services and activities, superior educational opportunities, a diversity of jobs, vibrant public
spaces, integrated mobility options, public activities, cultural events and entertainment for all.
…is a place that welcomes everyone from everywhere to grow and thrive.
The Woodlands Township Mission
We fulfill The Woodlands vision by:
• Protecting the well-being and safety of our residents, • Promoting continued vitality of neighborhoods
visitors and businesses. and commercial areas.
• Achieving the highest standards in service delivery. • Maintaining transparent governance.
• Partnering with others to sustain the vitality • Serving as financial stewards of the
of our region. community’s resources.
• Communicating with our constituents and partners. • Evolving a governance structure to meet our goals.
• Attracting and retaining a talented and • Promoting sound environmental policy.
innovative staff. • Collaborating with community partners to promote
• Serving as the community’s political voice. public events and cultural activities.
• Powering economic growth through • Collaborating with community partners to improve
community investment. mobility throughout The Woodlands.
T
his publication provides an overview of the financial status of The Woodlands Township. Specifically,
this overview provides a summary of what we accomplished as an organization in 2018, our current
financial status and the issues and opportunities that lie ahead over the next five years.
In 2010, The Woodlands Township, a special purpose district, became the local government provider for the
majority of municipal-type services in The Woodlands. The fully-elected Board of Directors and Township
staff are committed to providing quality customer-friendly services along with programs and policies to
promote economic development, enhance property values and enhance quality of life in The Woodlands.
Since inception, the Township has been able to build a financial model that provides for top quality services
at a low property tax rate and sufficient reserves to provide for replacement of capital infrastructure, as
needed. Prudent fiscal management has allowed the Township to balance revenues and expenditures while
maintaining or enhancing services, maintaining excellent bond ratings and low debt per capita ratio, and
maintaining appropriate reserves. This solid financial strategy has allowed the Township to provide core
services while also providing the flexibility to respond to unexpected events, such as Hurricane Harvey, which
impacted our community in 2017.
In keeping with its policy of saving for future needs, in 2016, the Township Board created an incorporation
reserve to plan for future costs should the community choose to incorporate as a municipality. In 2017, the
Township successfully pursued legislative changes to allow a clearer path to Incorporation and transition
from the Township to a new city. The Woodlands has had the ability to incorporate since 2014; however,
state statutes did not provide for incorporation of a community as large as The Woodlands. With the new
legislation, an incorporation election would also require that voters approve a maximum initial tax rate. To
prepare the community for future governance decisions, the Township Board initiated an Incorporation
Planning Study in 2018.
As we look to the future, I am happy to report that The Woodlands Township outlook continues to be very
promising. As a governmental entity, our financial position is strong, and the Township’s economic growth
potential is exceptional.
Sincerely,
Don Norrell
President and General Manager
The Woodlands Township
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A Snapshot of The Woodlands
The Woodlands Township is the Public safety is a top priority for the community services, resulting in clean, well
governmental entity dedicated to meeting Township. Since 2009, a substantial maintained roadways and neighborhood
the needs of The Woodlands residents and commitment of resources has been entries. Parks and Recreation provides
businesses. The Township encompasses invested in law enforcement and fire maintenance to the extensive network
approximately 28,000 acres with a services. As a result, The Woodlands is one of parks, pathways, athletic fields, and
population of more than 115,000 people, of the safest places in the country to live, pools as well as recreational programs.
2,100 businesses and a tax base valuation work and play. The number of parks and pathways will
of more than $20 billion. increase in 2018–19, as the Village of
The Township contracts with Montgomery Creekside Park approaches completion.
The Township staff and publicly elected County Sheriff’s Office and Harris County
Board of Directors are committed to public Constable, Precinct #4, to provide Covenant management is integral to the
safety and exceptional levels of customer community policing services. In 2018, beauty and aesthetic harmony of The
service. Together, they responsibly fulfill the this arrangement provides a total of 122 Woodlands Township. Strong covenant
governance needs of the community while personnel assigned to The Woodlands enforcement will continue to be a high
promoting the economic development of in eight residential and community priority as the community matures and
The Woodlands and providing services that policing zones and one tourism zone. redevelopment occurs.
enhance property values. The Woodlands also provides additional
overtime funding for law enforcement
The Woodlands Township’s financial model services as needed throughout the year.
is unique among local governments. The
Township offers its residents enhanced The Township is highly proactive about
services and amenities at a higher level public safety. It sponsors multiple public
than most communities, but at a lower tax safety programs and continues to foster
rate than most local governments. Since strong relationships with local law
2010, the Board has been able to reduce enforcement. Neighborhood Services
the property tax rate from 32.8 cents per focuses its efforts on the safety of residents
$100 of valuation to only 22.73 cents per and businesses through its award-winning
$100 of valuation, while still maintaining Woodlands neighborhood watch program. The Woodlands Township continues to
sufficient reserves for replacement of inform its residents of Township events and
capital infrastructure as needed. Residents, businesses and visitors receive activities through a variety of methods. The
excellent fire and first-responder services Woodlands Community Magazine, a free
The Woodlands Township Board of through The Woodlands Fire Department. monthly publication, is delivered directly to
Directors continues its efforts to grow The Woodlands Township employs all homes in the Township and maintains its
sales tax and room tax receipts through 167.5 personnel in The Woodlands Fire high readership. The Township continues to
investment in community infrastructure Department. They provide fire protection provide a weekly eNewsletter, Talk of the
and promotion of The Woodlands and first-responder services from eight Township, highlighting the latest Township
through The Woodlands Convention strategically located fire stations and the news and events. In addition, the Township
and Visitors Bureau, now known as Visit Emergency Training Center. The Woodlands maintains an official Facebook page, www.
The Woodlands. The popularity of The has an ISO rating of 1 (the highest rating facebook.com/ thewoodlandstownship,
Woodlands for shopping, dining and special assigned by the ISO), largely due to the Twitter account @TheTownshipTX,
events confirms it as a top entertainment Board of Directors’ goal of providing the Instagram and TheWoodlands311 app.
venue for residents and visitors alike. The community with the highest level of fire
sales and room tax paid by visitors is a services. The Township website continues to provide
major contributor to the low property tax the public with a wealth of information.
rate The Woodlands residents enjoy. The Township also provides a high level of With news releases, a calendar of
events, bid postings, meeting agendas
and minutes, recreational programming
The Woodlands Fire Department Tiller Truck information, emergency notifications
and a detailed budget, it has become a
primary source of information for the
entire community. Live videos of the Board
of Directors meetings are available on the
site, as are archived meeting videos.
The public can also stay informed by
attending a Township Board of Directors
meeting and/or other committee meetings
at Town Hall. Being informed of such
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meetings is easy due to the Township
agenda process. Meeting agendas, meeting
minutes and complete summaries of issues
posted for Board consideration are readily
available on the website.
Success of The Woodlands
Township
The Woodlands Township benefits from
the vibrant Texas economy and state
government policies that encourage
business investment and job creation. In
addition, The Woodlands is located just
Hughes Landing Band Shell
north of Houston, the hub of the nation’s
energy industry.
The Woodlands master plan and covenants Lake Woodlands Crossing Retail Center underway with completion slated for
provide a highly desirable environment for at 1900 Lake Woodlands Drive at the 2019. The 10,000-square-foot building
residents and businesses while helping to northeast intersection of Grogan’s Mill and playground will be located on Hughes
maintain property values. Existing as well as Road. The center is currently 78% leased. Landing Blvd., adjacent to the Two Hughes
relocating businesses find The Woodlands Total Wine & More opened its first location Landing and Three Hughes Landing parking
amenities and quality of life help to attract in The Woodlands at Lake Woodlands garages. Also, in Hughes Landing, Focus
and retain top quality employees. Crossing, serving as a co-anchor of the Optical signed a lease to expand their
retail center. The liquor superstore chain current location to 3,304 square feet, from
The Township Board of Directors offers a selection of 8,000 wines, 3,000 its original lease space of 1,801, which
contributes to The Woodlands success spirits and 2,500 beers along with mixers, they have occupied since 2016. With the
by establishing strategies and policies bar accessories and gift items. ULTA Beauty expansion, existing retail space in Hughes
for maintenance of the community, relocated from its previous location in Landing is 100% leased to date.
upgrading community facilities as needed, The Woodlands to also serve as co-anchor
supporting a vibrant business environment, of the center. A restaurant specializing The Howard Hughes Corporation, and its
encouraging community involvement, in healthy food choices will open in Lake wholly-owned subsidiary, The Woodlands
and promoting community events that Woodlands Crossing in 2019. REACH Development Company, along with The
generate the revenues used to reduce the Stretch Studios, Beaux Toes, Main Squeeze Woodlands Township together announced
property tax rate. Juice Company and Stickhouse serve as the official conveyance of the Band Shell
initial tenants. and Boardwalk at Hughes Landing® Park
Of the total Township revenue base, about to The Woodlands Township. The Band
65 percent comes from sales tax, room Howard Hughes broke ground on Two Shell and Boardwalk projects were made
tax, user fees and grants. Since 2010, the Lakes Edge in Hughes Landing, the second possible by a Comprehensive Community
revenue collection from these revenue multifamily development in Hughes Services Agreement between The Howard
sources has grown, while the property tax Landing. Two Lakes Edge is an eight-story, Hughes Corporation and The Woodlands
rate has declined. 386-unit, luxury apartment building with Township under which both entities jointly
retail and a restaurant planned on the contribute to amenities in the community,
Business Development Continues in The ground level. Health and wellness is a with full ownership eventually transferred
Woodlands major component of this project. Two to the Township.
The Howard Hughes Corporation® acquired Lakes Edge will provide an expansive fitness
center with state-of-the-art equipment, a Moviehouse & Eatery® will open its first
the two former Chicago Bridge & Iron location at Creekside Park® Village Center,
Company (CB&I) Class-A office buildings, large yoga room, coupled with an outdoor
fitness lawn. In addition, the property making Creekside Park the first village in
situated on the northern end of Hughes The Woodlands with its own theater. The
Landing®. Totaling 257,025 square feet, the will provide multiple kayaks and bikes for
complimentary use by its residents. The theater is expected to open in winter 2019.
two buildings are located on 12.92 acres on Moviehouse & Eatery will be located in a
the north side of Lake Woodlands at 2103 expected completion of the project is
spring 2020. new 12-acre retail development, Creekside
Research Forest Drive, with approximately Park West, within the center, developed
3.4 acres of the total site designated for Executives from Howard Hughes and by The Howard Hughes Corporation.
future development opportunity. The Primrose broke ground on the first early The luxury dine-in theater will include
Howard Hughes Corporation repositioned childhood school in Hughes Landing in 11 wall-to-wall screens, full-service food
the campus as Lake Front North in Hughes November. Primrose is an accredited and beverage service at every luxury
Landing. In December, Howard Hughes early childhood education school reserved recliner, a full bar and a scratch
announced Arena Energy leased 87,231 that serves children from six weeks to kitchen. Along with the approximately
square feet at Lake Front North. kindergarten and offers summer camps. 42,370-square-foot movie theater,
In September, Howard Hughes opened Construction on Primrose School is Creekside Park West will include new
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1.8-mile water amenity, transportation
corridor and linear park, highlighting a
mixed-use urban center which connects
office space, shopping, dining, hospitality,
entertainment and residential living
Glade Cultural Center Visit The Woodlands
in Town Center to two lakes, including
Lake Woodlands, and three urban Visit The Woodlands (convention and
parks. The Waterway was created as visitors bureau) is charged with the
retailers, restaurants with outdoor patios
a unique 18-year 50/50, private/public following strategic initiatives: Partnership
and a gathering courtyard, complete with
partnership involving The Woodlands Collaboration & Growth, Enhance &
outdoor fountain seating.
Development Company (a subsidiary of Protect The Woodlands Brand, Increase
Also located in Creekside Park Village The Howard Hughes Corporation), Houston Retail Spending and Support Room
Center, Creekside Park The Residences Galveston Area Council, Texas Department Absorption. Per the organization’s mission,
celebrated its Grand Opening in winter of Transportation, Brazos Transit District, Visit The Woodlands worked with several
2018. Developed by The Howard Federal Transit Administration, The groups in 2018 to bring meeting and event
Hughes Corporation, Creekside Park Woodlands Road Utility District, The business to The Woodlands in order to
The Residences is the first apartment Woodlands Township and the Town Center increase the Township’s Hotel Occupancy
development in Creekside Park. Creekside Owners Association. The Woodlands Tax and Retail Sales Tax. The Woodlands
Park The Residences is comprised of 10, Waterway began in 1972 as a long-range has 14 hotels with 2,250 in inventory each
two-story Big House® buildings totaling 100 vision of a transit corridor in the future and every night. The Woodlands host major
residences, and two, four-story e-Urban® Town Center. corporate meetings as well as signature
buildings totaling 192 residences. The Big events and meetings such as Copa Rayados
Wulfe & Company continues to develop
House concept is unique to the area and Internacional Soccer Tournament, Lunar
East Shore Place, located at Grogan’s Mill
features direct-access attached garages for & Planetary Science Conference and
Road near East Shore Drive. A two-story
each residential unit. Most of the ground IRONMAN North American Championship.
building with 49,000 square feet has
level homes include separate fenced Visit The Woodlands also worked to
been completed that will include retail,
yards. The multifamily residences fulfill the promote The Woodlands’ signature events,
restaurant and professional space on
demand of young families, empty nesters, including: The Woodlands Waterway Arts
the ground floor and specialty office and
and active adults who wish to reside close Festival and The Inspire Film Festival.
medical space on the second floor. Leases
to their families in The Woodlands. In
so far include Toasted Yolk Café, 4,347 Sales Tax and Hotel Occupancy Tax
addition, Creekside Park The Residences
square feet, and Isle PediSpa, 2,500 square
is within walking distance to H-E-B, a
feet. East Shore Place has a 9,000-square- Sales tax and room tax make up 51 percent
multitude of restaurants and retailers and
foot Frost Bank building and a four-level of Township revenues. The majority of these
community events at Creekside Park Village
parking garage. A freestanding restaurant is taxes are paid by visitors. Sales tax revenue
Green.
also planned. has increased significantly over the past five
Development progresses on The University years, growing from $45 million in 2013 to
In April, the Glade Cultural Center opened $54.6 million in 2018, or 21%
of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center as
its doors to provide residents and visitors
it prepares to open its new, three-story,
with a world-class fine arts museum and Hotel occupancy tax revenue also continues
208,000-square-foot facility at State
cultural arts center housed in what was to grow, increasing from $6.5 million in 2013
Highway 242 and Fellowship Drive. The
previously known as The Woodlands to $9.0 million in 2018, or 38%. Two new
outpatient clinic will house supportive
Welcome Center off Woodlands Parkway. hotels opened in The Woodlands in 2016,
services, treatment and diagnostic and
This new 501(c)(3) non-profit organization bringing the total number of hotel facilities
screening services. The Howard Hughes
provides a unique and accessible fine arts to 14 and increasing the overall room
Corporation will turn over the clinic to
experience with programs focused on art capacity in the area.
MD Anderson Cancer Center at the end
education, scholarships, community based
of May 2019, with an opening slated for Niche.com gives The Woodlands high
public art projects and curated museumlike
September 9. rankings
exhibit center showcasing local and
The Woodlands celebrated the completion international artists and acclaimed private In 2018, Niche.com ranked The Woodlands
of The Woodlands Waterway® in 2018, a and public art collections. among the top places to live and raise a
The Woodlands Area family in Texas and the United States. Niche
Economic Development is a team of data scientists and others who
The Woodlands Waterway Completion evaluate data sets to produce rankings,
Partnership facilitated a Texas
Enterprise Zone Program reports and in-depth profiles to help people
for Huntsman Corporation’s review where they would like to live and go
remodel of their headquarters to school. The Woodlands ranked as the #1
building in The Woodlands. place to live in Montgomery County and the
This project represents over #2 place to raise a family in America.
500 retained jobs.
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The George Mitchell Nature Preserve
Summary of 2018 Accomplishments
Completion of 2019 Budget and Five-Year Plan Property Tax Rate
Tax Rate Per $100 Valuation
A Board pre-budget and strategic planning process was conducted in
early May of 2018 to discuss strategic issues and objectives in accordance
32.80¢ 32.74¢ 32.50¢
with the Township’s vision, mission and strategic plan and to develop
31.73¢
information to assist the Board in the budget and financial planning
process.
29.40¢
The 2019 adopted budget lowered the property tax rate from 23 cents
per $100 of valuation to 22.73 cents per $100 of taxable property
value, which includes a continuation of base level services and funding
for Board-approved budget initiatives. The 2019 Budget continues to
prioritize public safety and community maintenance while providing 25¢
enhanced services and preparation for future growth. The Woodlands
Township is committed to its residents and businesses in creating a 23¢ 23¢ 23¢ 22.73¢
community that enhances quality of life while increasing overall value.
Over the past eight years, the Township has built a financial model that
FY FY FY FY FY FY FY FY FY FY
provides top quality services at a low property tax rate and with sufficient 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
reserves to provide for replacement of capital infrastructure as needed.
The 2018 adopted property tax rate is 23 cents per $100 of valuation. For
budget years 2017 and 2018, the Board maintained the tax rate at $0.2300
For full details regarding the Township’s 2019 budget, please visit www. due to uncertain economic conditions and decreases in sales and use tax
thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/budget. Budget workshops for the 2020 revenues which are used to offset property tax requirements.
budget begin in August 2019.
Other | 3% Other | 7%
Grants | 3%
CVB | 3% Fire | 20%
Program Fees | 8%
Debt Service | 6%
43% Sales Tax
Hotel | 8%
35%Transportation
Sales Tax | 43%
Property| 7%Tax
Revenue 8% Hotel Expenditures
Capital | 7%
Sources
8% Progam Fees
General | 8% Parks and Recreation | 18%
3% Grants
Property Tax | 35% 3% Other
Law Enforcement | 12%
Community Services | 12%
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Township given an Aa1 issuer rating by and size of the Township. The legislation model assumptions, future financial model
Moody’s Investor Service was passed to clarify existing state statues questions, and comparative findings and
and to pave the way for a smooth transition presented draft benchmarking research
In 2018, Moody’s assigned an issuer rating of from a Township form of government to a regarding revenue and municipal programs
Aa1 to The Woodlands Township. The issuer municipal government. in comparison to the data of peer cities in
rating reflects Moody’s credit assessment Texas to be used in the Future Governance/
of the Township’s implicit general obligation A provision was also included that upon the Incorporation study. Studies performed
credit strength and is used as a reference calling of an incorporation election by The to date include the best practices
rating for the Township’s sales and use Woodlands Township Board of Directors, analysis, zoning and covenant review, law
tax and hotel occupancy bonds (revenue the election order would include the initial enforcement analysis, street condition
bonds), which currently have a rating of not to exceed property tax that sets a analysis, and a review of municipal utility
A1. Although Moody’s routinely analyzes maximum tax levy for the new city which district (MUD) operations.
and publishes ratings for the Township’s would then be approved by voters.
revenue bonds, this is the first time the In addition to the regular meetings,
credit agency has released an issuer rating Regional Participation Agreements (RPAs) an Incorporation Planning Study
related to the Township’s general obligation were put in place in 2007 with the City of website has been launched at www.
indebtedness. According to Moody’s Houston and the City of Conroe protecting thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/governance
definitions, “obligations rated Aa are judged The Woodlands from annexation, allowing or www.thewoodlandsincorporationstudy.
to be of high quality and are subject to very The Woodlands to determine its future com to provide an overview of The
low credit risk. The modifier 1 indicates governance. Woodlands Township, FAQs about the study,
that the obligation ranks in the higher end past meeting videos and more. Residents
of its generic rating category.” The only In early 2018, The Woodlands Township can access current Incorporation Planning
credit rating higher than Aa1 is Aaa. The embarked on an incorporation planning Study information, including study results
Township received this rating in part due study with two independent firms. As part and assessments and past presentations.
to its history of strong fiscal management of this process, the Township Board of Additional improvements to the website are
with maintenance of healthy fund balance Directors selected the Matrix Consulting planned for 2019.
and liquidity; its large and diverse tax Group as the lead consultant and selected
base, stable financial operations with The Novak Consulting Group to perform In September, The Woodlands Township
sound reserves, and low debt and pension an independent analysis and best practices held an Incorporation Planning Study
burdens; and its conservative budgeting review. Public Forum at The Woodlands Waterway
and careful expense management that has Marriott Hotel & Convention Center.
The Township Board of Directors kicked More than 330 residents attended and
contributed to stable financial reserves.
off its future governance/incorporation heard presentations from the Township
Initiation of an Incorporation Planning planning study in April 2018 to involve and its consulting team. The meeting was
Study Township residents in the dialogue of future videotaped and is available on the Township
governance options in The Woodlands. website.
Two bills were passed in 2017 during the In an effort to fully engage the public, the
85th Legislative Session that clear the way Board scheduled two planning sessions per In November the preliminary results of the
for future incorporation of The Woodlands if month to provide an opportunity for the two independent financial analyses were
desired by the community. While authority consultants to provide updates on the study presented at the Township Board’s planning
is granted to incorporate under existing and to provide the public an opportunity to session.
statutes for The Woodlands Township and provide feedback to the Board at each of the
Regional Participation Agreements to which meetings. In December, in preparation of a final
the Township is a party, state law did not financial model regarding future governance
provide specific statutory language for Throughout the year, the consultants to include robust public outreach, The
incorporation of an area with the population reported on frequently asked questions, Woodlands Township Board of Directors has
overall project updates, base financial engaged the Novak Consulting Group as the
lead firm for the remainder of the project.
Incorporation Planning Study Public Forum
The next phase of the incorporation study
will involve preparation of a final financial
model based on the two independent
analyses, determination of a maximum
initial tax rate that would be required
if the Township Board were to call an
incorporation election, and a public
outreach program to provide information to
educate and to survey the community.
The choice of whether or not to incorporate
ultimately lies in the hands of The Woodlands
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voters. If the residents vote to incorporate, Shortly after the meetings Swan Boats Launch
they must also vote to approve the initial in Washington, D.C.,
maximum tax rate, which was an item representatives from The
added during the last state legislative Woodlands Township
cycle. Both must pass for The Woodlands joined Montgomery
to become a general law city, prior to County and other local
consideration of becoming a home rule city. officials at a meeting of
the Hurricane Harvey
Drainage Task Force Federal/State Housing
Strike Team. The meeting
The Woodlands Township does not have included the State of
direct responsibility for or authority over Texas, Department of
drainage issues in the community. In 2016, Housing and Urban
the Board initiated a task force to advocate Development (HUD), Texas beloved Orca slide. Some of the enhanced
for Township residents and businesses and General Land Office (GLO) and others and features of Bear Branch Pool include new
facilitate discussions with other entities provided an opportunity for local officials to lanes for lap swimming, an expanded deck,
that have direct responsibility for drainage strategize on a long-term Hurricane Harvey zero depth entry, a water play area for
in order to resolve drainage concerns. disaster recovery action plan with state and children, new restrooms with showers and
Following Hurricane Harvey in 2017, this federal agencies. expanded parking.
task force received increased cooperation
from partner agencies to investigate and Residential Survey On-site Kayak, Paddleboard Storage
resolve drainage concerns, particularly Offered at Boat House in Northshore Park
related to flooding mitigation in the Spring The Township traditionally conducts
Creek watershed. The task force includes a survey of The Woodlands residents The major renovation of Northshore
representatives from The Woodlands approximately every two years to seek Park completed in 2017 included the
Joint Powers Agency, The Woodlands resident feedback on the community and construction of a new 7,000-square-foot
Municipal Utility Districts, the San Jacinto their overall satisfaction with Township boathouse facility on the waterfront of Lake
River Authority, the Harris County Flood services and well as their suggested Woodlands. While the majority of the facility
Control District and the Federal Emergency improvements. Results of the survey are provides a home for the Rowing Club of The
Management Administration. The work typically used to assist in prioritizing funding Woodlands and Parati Competitive Rowing
of the task force is expected to continue and service initiatives during the budget through a public-private partnership, the
throughout 2019. process. The Township contracted with Township also created a space for fee-based
National Research Center, Inc. (NRC) to kayak and paddleboard storage in the The
Township Officials Work with State, provide a low-cost, high-quality method to Woodforest Bank Boat House at Northshore
National Leaders on Flood Mitigation conduct market research for the community Park. The Northshore Park Storage Facility
survey in 2018. The survey centers on offers quick and easy access to Lake
In response to Hurricane Harvey, in community livability and includes questions Woodlands. Starting in 2018, residents can
early 2018, officials with The Woodlands about the quality of life in the community, keep their equipment in a safe location,
Township made personal visits with state local policies, rating of local government close to the water for ease of use. Access
and federal leaders in Washington, D.C. on services and other topics to ensure the hours mirror the hours of Northshore Park.
behalf of The Woodlands residents to help in Township is meeting the expectations of Spaces are limited and are offered on a first-
flood mitigation for the region. residents. A random and scientific sample come, first-served basis and reservations
of households received invitations to for storage must be made via Riva Row Boat
Township Chairman Bunch and Director
participate. Results of the survey will be House.
Rieser, who Chairs the Drainage Task Force
presented in a Public Meeting in early 2019.
for The Woodlands Township, joined other
Waterway Cruisers Removed from The
Montgomery County elected officials in Reconstruction of Bear Branch Park Pool Woodlands Waterway
Washington, D.C. to support additional
federal disaster recovery funding following The existing pool at Bear Branch Park was The Woodlands Convention & Visitors
Hurricane Harvey. severely damaged as a result of conditions Bureau (CVB), known as Visit The
created by a major storm event in April Woodlands, contracted for the removal
Montgomery County and The Woodlands 2016. Based on expert analysis, the pool of the six Waterway Cruisers from The
Township officials are working with the needed to be removed and a new pool Woodlands Waterway. The Cruisers, which
State of Texas and members of the Texas constructed. The majority of the costs for had been iconic symbols of The Woodlands
congressional delegation to fund a study of reconstruction of the pool were funded Waterway for 15 years, had not been in
Montgomery County watersheds, including through insurance proceeds. Bear Branch operation since they were damaged during
Spring Creek, to better understand local Pool officially re-opened in July 2018. Hurricane Harvey.
hydrology within the watersheds and to Centrally located at 5200 Research Forest
recommend steps that can be taken to Drive, Bear Branch Pool features a large Swan Boats Launched on the Waterway
reduce area flooding to homeowners and shallow end with play structure, a body
properties. slide in the deep end and the return of the The Woodlands Township launched 10 swan
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pedal boats on The Woodlands Waterway a museum or other similar purposes. The e-newsletter, Talk of the Township, for
in August. The swan-shaped boats are first phase needs assessment and the important news alerts and information
available to rent to the public and are second phase management / business plan on upcoming events and recent activities.
located near Riva Row Boat House. Boats and financial pro forma concluded in 2017. To get connected with Township
are permitted to travel the upper level of These initial phases determined a need and communication channels, please visit
the Waterway from the turning basin at desire from the community for a science www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/
Riva Row Park to the east end of the canal museum and a cultural arts facility. The stayinformed.
but are not permitted in Lake Robbins. Board authorized a third phase of the study
Within the first three months of operations, to be completed in 2018, to look at project Emergency Preparedness
the revenues had covered the cost for the initiation, architectural programming,
purchase of the swan boats. predesign analysis, and update of the The Township continues to promote
business plan to consider a science museum emergency preparedness through increased
Construction of an Adventure Course at and/or a cultural arts center. Phase III is communication to encourage residents and
The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park a continuation of the feasibility study. businesses to be prepared during hurricane
Planning for a potential performing arts season and throughout the year. Aside
In 2018, the Township awarded bids for facility is still under discussion. No funding from personal preparedness tips, this also
the design and construction of an outdoor has been committed to building either includes special messaging encouraging
adventure course located at the Recreation facility at this time. the community to stay informed via The
Center at Rob Fleming Park. The adventure Woodlands Township’s “Stay Informed” and
course will be known as Texas TreeVentures Enhanced Communication “Emergency Resources” links, located on the
and the course design takes into account homepage at www. thewoodlandstownship-
the topography, trees, terrain, existing The Woodlands Township recognizes the tx.gov. There are many alert tools at The
site facilities and synergy with the George importance of connecting with residents, Woodlands Township’s website and through
Mitchell Nature Preserve to provide a businesses and visitors through a variety the Township’s social media marketing as
diverse experience for various skill levels of platforms and continues to expand the well. Key and necessary information is sent
and that could have the potential for future methods with which the public can receive out via all of these channels before, during
expansion. Construction of the project information and notices. In addition to the and after a storm to help residents to stay
included the course, course equipment, site Township’s website and The Woodlands prepared and informed during hurricane
renovation and tree house renovations. Community Magazine, the Township has season.
The adventure course is scheduled to open an official Facebook page, Twitter feed (@
to the public in mid-spring 2019. Other TheTownshipTX), Instagram, LinkedIn and a Residents are also encouraged to sign up
amenities added to park areas adjacent to Facebook page specifically for the Parks and for a service called SMART 911 which is
the Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park Recreation Department. located at www.smart911.com. This service
in 2018-2019 include a dog park, playground is free, private and secure, and allows
and field lights. In 2018, the Township added a Facebook citizens to create a Safety Profile of valuable
page specifically for Neighborhood information for 9-1-1 call takers only in
Cultural Arts Study Watch (www.facebook.com/ the event of an emergency. Customized
townshipneighborhoodwatch) to provide information delivered directly to first
In 2016, a contract was awarded to conduct information to community members responders includes medical information;
a Cultural Arts Feasibility Study for The regarding crime prevention, personal safety special conditions; names, ages and
Woodlands to consider a need and/or tips and emergency preparedness planning pictures of family members; home and
support for a potential cultural arts facility tips. The Township also communicated work addresses; phone numbers associated
that may house space for performing arts, through Facebook live videos during several with family members; information about
events. pets; access information (gate codes,
garage codes); description of vehicles; and
Residents have emergency contacts. This is not a Township
many choices service, but is contracted through County
to keep in services.
touch with
the Township, Transportation / Mobility
including
following the In 2012, as a result of the 2010 U.S.
Township on Census and the creation of the Conroe/
social media, Woodlands Large Urbanized Area (UZA),
subscribing to several transportation and mobility topics
community- impacting The Woodlands Township began
wide emergency to emerge.
notifications, or
subscribing to The Woodlands Township and the City
the Township’s of Conroe were designated as co-direct
weekly recipients of federal transit funds for the
88 Adventure Course at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Parknew large urban area. With this role, the commute.
Township assumed direct responsibility Destinations include
for The Woodlands Express and the Town the Texas Medical
Center Trolleys. While the Township now Center, Greenway
bears greater responsibility for financial Plaza, as well as the
reporting and grant management, it Central Business
continues to contract for transportation District of Houston.
services. Scheduled service
is provided Monday
The Woodlands Township does not have through Friday,
statutory responsibility or authority excluding holidays.
over planning and building roadways Expanded Trolley Service
and highways. The responsibility for The new mobile
the roadways in The Woodlands rests ticketing app is 4.1-mile route connecting The Woodlands
primarily with Montgomery and Harris available for free download in the Mall, Market Street, Town Center, The
Counties. However, the Township Board Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Woodlands Waterway and Hughes Landing.
of Directors is interested in developing a Riders may purchase tickets on their Stops are conveniently located near retail
better understanding of transportation and smartphones anytime, anywhere and and business locations, making travel
mobility projects impacting the community. display them when boarding the bus. seamless and efficient for residents and
The Township will continue to explore ways Riders using the app can pay for tickets visitors when shopping, moving about
to improve mobility and consider options using a credit or debit card, or via digital during the work day or enjoying the many
that allow the Township to be more involved payment services such as Masterpass restaurants, concerts and activities in The
and partner with the counties in support of and Apple Pay. Both round-trip tickets Woodlands.
improvements that enhance The Woodlands and ticket books, which provide riders
community. 20 round-trip tickets, are available. Once In addition to the added stops, riders can
purchased, the tickets work offline and now track the Town Center Trolley in real
Transportation Services are stored in the app. time on a mobile device. The Ride Systems
App can be downloaded for Town Center
The Township continues to contract with Woodlands Express launches “Next Bus” Trolley information including estimated
First Class Tours as the bus operator for tracking app arrival times, location, stop information,
The Woodlands Express park and ride nearby attractions, service alerts and more.
service and with Brazos Transit District for The Woodlands Township continues to lead The app can be downloaded for free in
the operation of the Town Center Trolleys. the Houston region in transit technology. the Apple (IOS) or Google Play (Android)
In addition, the Township continues to Building on the recent successful release store and installed on any smartphone.
contract with Montgomery County Senior of its mobile ticketing app, The Woodlands After installation, select “The Woodlands
Rides/Meals on Wheels for demand- Township has released a “Next Bus” tracking Township” from the menu to begin use.
response transportation and provides app for The Woodlands Express commuter
supplemental service through an agreement bus service. Designed in partnership with Pilot Program for Park and Ride Service to
with Interfaith’s transportation program for transit technology firm Ride Systems, the Energy Corridor
seniors. app provides real-time information for
passengers, including GPS-tracked bus In 2018, the Board authorized staff and
Mobile Ticketing System for location, estimated arrival times, stop consultants to prepare a grant application
The Woodlands Express Park information, notifications and more. Both for the Houston-Galveston Area Council
and Ride new apps are the first of their kind in the (H-GAC) Congestion Mitigation and Air
region. Quality (CMAQ) Commuter and Transit Pilot
As part of continued Program for a route to the Energy Corridor
enhancements to The The Ride Systems app is free to download and directed staff to seek additional funding
Woodlands Express park and and available for IOS and Android in the from regional partners in the Energy
ride service, the Township App Store or on Google Play. For passengers Corridor to serve as the local match.
launched a mobile ticketing already using the mobile ticketing app, the
app for riders of the bus bus tracking feature is available in under Global Entry Enrollment Center
service, a technology-based “Trip Tools.”
alternative to traditional paper tickets. In 2017, to assist local residents, the
Tickets can now be bought anytime, Town Center Trolleys expand service to Township entered an agreement to allow
anywhere, using the new app. Hughes Landing and launch trolley app the use of Town Hall for a Global Entry
Enrollment Center one to two days per
The Woodlands Express Park and In 2018, The Woodlands Township month. U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Ride service provides a comfortable, expanded the Town Center Trolley route provides their own staff, data systems
convenient and economical way to to include service to Hughes Landing. The and related peripherals to conduct the
commute from The Woodlands to free trolleys provide transit to popular retail, enrollments and there is no direct cost to
Houston, and also offers reverse entertainment and office locations along the the Township. In 2018, the agreement was
9look at fire apparatus, Hands-Only CPR Community Challenge
rescue units and
the fire station, and In 2018, The Woodlands Township launched
allowed children a series of Hands-Only CPR trainings
to learn about fire through the Neighborhood Watch. These
safety and meet the trainings were offered free of charge in
firefighters who help partnership with The Woodlands Fire
keep neighborhoods Department, American Heart Association
safe. In addition, and Montgomery County Hospital District.
law enforcement Nearly 800 people were trained in hands-
personnel from the only CPR through this community-wide
Hands-Only CPR Village Challenge Montgomery County initiative. The American Heart Association’s
Sheriff’s Office Crime CPR guidelines include the option of Hands-
amended to increase the operating days Prevention Unit and Only CPR (without breath interventions). If
from twice a month to one day per week, Harris County Constable’s Office Precinct performed immediately, Hands-Only CPR
occurring every Thursday. 4 joined in the fun to help educate the can significantly increase the chance of
community. survival for a cardiac arrest victim.
Township hosted September 11
Ceremonies National Award for Neighborhood Watch ISO 1 Rating Reaffirmed
The Woodlands Township hosted two The Township Neighborhood Watch was The Woodlands Township was initially
ceremonies on September 11, 2018, to honored by The National Association of awarded the Insurance Service Office
commemorate a day of remembrance and Town Watch for their efforts during the (ISO) 1 rating on May 1, 2014. Very few
reverence in the community. The day was 2018 National Night Out Campaign, with communities in North America hold this
proclaimed as Patriot Day of Remembrance third place in Category #2 for populations prestigious rating. The community’s ISO
and First Responders Day in The Woodlands. 100,000 to 300,000. The Township also rating is important to residential and
With the federal government establishing collaborated with the State of Texas, commercial owners, as their insurance
September 11 as Patriot Day and National which took first place in its category. The premium rate is directly affected by the
Day of Remembrance, and the Texas Woodlands Township has been participating rating. It is also a key component for
Government Code 662.050 proclaiming in National Night Out since 1990, and it corporations considering relocation to
September 11 as Texas First Responders has been producing award-winning crime The Woodlands. Due to recent changes in
Day, these ceremonies help to officially prevention programming since 1984. scoring and reevaluation requirements, the
acknowledge this day in The Woodlands. The National Night Out campaign in The Township authorized an ISO revaluation
Woodlands offers many opportunities for earlier than required in order to take
Public Safety Open Houses to Celebrates neighborhood camaraderie, including a advantage of the current state oversight and
Public Safety Partnerships theme party contest, sidewalk chalk art preserve the Public Protection Class 1 rating
competition, a food drive in partnership for an additional length of time. In mid-2018,
As an early kickoff to the National Night with Interfaith of The Woodlands, I.D. the the State Fire Marshal’s Office reaffirmed
Out program, the Township hosted a Public Burglar Village Challenge and the National the Township’s ISO 1 rating.
Safety Open House at each of the eight fire Night Out Military Drive, and a related
stations in The Woodlands. The open houses Community Safety Expo event. Community Services
provided opportunities to get an up-close
Community maintenance, including roadway
and neighborhood entry maintenance,
continues to be a priority for the Township.
Management of covenant standards is key
to maintaining property values, and will
become more challenging as the community
matures. The Township continues to actively
pursue covenant violations through the
legal process. Waste removal and recycling
services in the Township will continue to be
provided to residents through an existing
contract with Waste Management in 2019;
however, a bid process has been initiated
for service provision when the existing
contract expires. The Township is unique in
that waste removal and recycling is funded
through the property tax levy. In most cities,
the cost of these services is paid directly by
residents through a separate fee.
1010 Patriot Day of RemembranceFall Foliage in The Woodlands
Looking Forward in 2019
There are a number of objectives, initiatives and issues that will need to be addressed by the Board and community in 2019 and
beyond. During the coming year, staff will focus efforts on the following objectives:
2020 Budget and Five-Year Plan originally issued in 2010 for $12,175,000 to advocate for Township residents and
to provide funding for the purchase and businesses and to facilitate discussions with
The Township will develop the 2020 budget renovation of the Town Hall facility. The the entities that have direct responsibility
in keeping with the Five-Year Plan. In this bonds became callable in March 2018. Final for drainage in The Woodlands. In 2019,
process, the Township will consider the action to retire these outstanding bonds will the Task Force is anticipated to focus on
impact of community growth and make be considered in early 2019. drainage concerns and flood mitigation
any required budget changes and continue related to the Spring Creek watershed.
to monitor changing economic conditions Cultural Arts Study – Phase III
and consider adjustments if necessary. Non-Property Tax Revenues
In late-2017, the Township Board approved
Additional initiatives for 2020 will be entering Phase III of the Cultural Arts Maintaining a strong sales tax and room
determined during the budget planning Feasibility Study, which is ongoing. tax base is important to the community
process. During this phase, the consultant is as a way of maintaining a low property
Continuation of the Incorporation Planning exploring project initiation, architectural tax rate. With over $64.7 million in sales
Study programming, pre-design analysis, and tax and room tax collections projected in
update of the business plan for a science 2019, the continuation of this revenue base
In 2018, the Township Board of Directors museum and a cultural arts center. is important to the maintenance of a low
contracted for an Incorporation Planning This remains an exploratory phase and property tax rate.
Study. In 2019, the consulting team will no funding has been appropriated for
continue to work with the Board of construction of a project at this time. Maintenance of Covenant Standards
Directors to complete a comprehensive Maintenance of high property values
process to facilitate public understanding Drainage Task Force
and resident satisfaction come from
of options and costs / benefits that may be In 2016, The Woodlands Township created the maintenance of property standards
associated with changing from the current the Drainage Task Force to address drainage through the enforcement of the Covenants
governmental structure to an incorporated concerns created by large rainfall and flood and Standards. As the villages in The
municipality. events such as the 2016 Tax Day event, the Woodlands age, the community may
Retirement of Bonds backed by Sales Tax 2016 Memorial Day flood and the flooding see increased covenant issues involving
and Hotel Occupancy Tax caused by Hurricane Harvey in 2017. The property maintenance. Effective and timely
task force includes representatives from covenant enforcement will be critical to the
In late 2018, the Board authorized staff all area agencies that have responsibility maintenance of quality and well-maintained
to proceed with obtaining the necessary or authority over planning, managing or neighborhoods.
documents for the defeasance of the maintaining drainage systems serving The
Township’s Series 2010 Sales Tax and Hotel Woodlands Township area. Transportation / Mobility Issues
Occupancy Tax Bonds. The bonds were With the growth to date in The Woodlands
The Drainage Task Force will continue
11celebrations and events, and held annually for the past 15 years at
serve as a prime focus of the Northshore Park and Lake Woodlands.
2.5-mile Woodlands Waterway. Since the inception of the race, CB&I had
In early 2018, a major repair was been the title sponsor holding the naming
identified and the Board spent rights and sponsorship title. CB&I recently
considerable time considering moved its headquarters and relinquished
options. Following negotiations the title sponsorship. Woodforest Bank
with The Woodlands Land has signed on as title sponsor for this
Development Company to allow event. The sponsorship will allow the
Lake Robbins Bridge the Township in the future to only triathlon to continue a premier event in
be obligated to make repairs that The Woodlands, along with the help of
maintain the fountain in a manner thousands of our residents volunteering and
and surrounding areas, the region is consistent with other fountains, lights and participating each and every year.
experiencing increased transportation stages under the purview of the Township,
and mobility challenges, including traffic the Board approved repairing the “bowl” Law Enforcement
congestion on the major thoroughfares of the fountain and replacing the existing
throughout The Woodlands and particularly The Township will continue to monitor law
equipment with new robotic water features enforcement needs in the Montgomery
in the Town Center area during the holiday and a new nonproprietary control system.
season, concert events and festivals. County and Harris County (Village of
Preliminary Master Plan for Township- Creekside Park) areas and adjust as
Voters in Montgomery County and Harris owned Property/Cultural Arts necessary to retain high quality public safety
County approved county road bonds services in The Woodlands.
in 2015 for mobility improvements The Township completed purchase of
throughout the area, and projects from an 11.6-acre tract of land located on the Waste Collection and Recycling Services
these bond issuances are anticipated to southwest corner of Grogan’s Mill Road The Township’s current contract for
provide some transportation improvements and Lake Woodlands Drive in 2015. The residential curbside waste collection and
in the Township over the next five years. purchase of this property will enable the recycling services expires in January 2020.
However, for the long term, a considerable Township to plan for future governmental A bid process has been initiated to solicit a
investment will need to be made to needs. The site may be suitable for the service provider for the next contract term.
roads in The Woodlands area and only development of a centralized complex
a small portion of the funding has been that could accommodate a city hall, a Community Services
approved at this time. In addition, capacity police station, municipal court, a local
improvements to the I-45 corridor are governmental services center and/or other Recognizing the importance of quality
desperately needed. The Texas Department important public facilities such as a cultural services, the Township will continue to
of Transportation (TxDOT) is conducting arts center, visitor center or other local look for ways to increase effectiveness and
a planning study known as a Planning and government public use facilities. Preliminary efficiency in service delivery programs. High
Environmental Linkages (PEL) Study for planning for the site will continue as the levels of service in the Township are critical
the I-45 North corridor between Beltway Township considers future governmental, to preserve the quality of life enjoyed by
8 in Harris County and Loop 336 South in cultural and civic facility needs. The Woodlands residents.
Montgomery County, which includes The
Woodlands area. The Township does not Opening of the Adventure Course at The Comprehensive Community Services
have responsibility or authority over these Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park Agreement/Streetscape Maintenance
mobility improvements, but will continue to The new adventure course to be known as The Woodlands Township mows and
work with the responsible entities on behalf Texas TreeVentures is scheduled to open to maintains several hundred miles of road
of Woodlands residents. the public in mid-spring 2019. The course rights of way, in addition to more than 400
The Township will also continue to review is currently under construction and Parks village and neighborhood entries. These
effectiveness and efficiency of Township and Recreation staff continue to ramp areas are maintained on various schedules
transportation programs, including the up of the facility through hiring staff and depending upon the adopted frequency
Town Center Trolley and The Woodlands implementing the business and operational standards.
Express park and ride service. plan.
The goal with the maintenance program is
Repair to Fountains at Waterway Square to be in harmony with nature; therefore,
maintenance standards and schedules
The Woodlands Township owns and were developed around this philosophy.
operates The Fountains at Waterway For example, neighborhood entries will
Square, which includes the park, stage, plaza have improved landscapes with manicured
and a state-of-the art dancing water and New Sponsor for TRI – The Woodlands groundcovers and irrigated grass along with
sound fountain system that some consider native shrubs and strips of forest; while the
the centerpiece of Town Center. Originally One of the Township’s signature races roadsides will be left as much as possible to
installed in 2008, The Fountains have been is a sprint triathlon held in May of each the natural progression of Mother Nature,
a focal point for numerous community year. TRI – The Woodlands that has been with some help of wildflower planting and
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