MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas – After months of legal wrangling over water service, Willis ISD and the City of Conroe have agreed to drop their lawsuits and appeals, clearing the way for a new agreement that local leaders say will save taxpayers money and provide more stability for schools.
Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough called the development “good news for taxpayers,” saying the City’s original $4 million demand in a development agreement has been reduced to just over $1.8 million.
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According to Keough, the lower figure now covers three campuses instead of just one under the original deal — a move he says delivers “even greater value and long-term savings for our community.”
“While it’s unfortunate that something as essential as water became a point of leverage, I’m encouraged that cooler heads ultimately prevailed and both sides chose a more productive path forward,” Keough said.
The dispute previously raised concerns about whether new school facilities would have water service and pass inspections in time for the start of the school year. Keough said his intervention helped ensure water was restored, inspections were completed, and students were able to begin classes on time at Calfee Middle School.
“Calfee Middle School is off to a great first year, and its students, teachers, and families have many successful years ahead,” Keough said. “Now, with this agreement in place, M.P. Clark School will not face the same delays or tactics.”
Willis ISD said in a statement that it welcomes the resolution and is looking ahead.
“We are grateful for the new agreement with the City of Conroe as we work to serve our shared community,” the district said. “Willis ISD remains focused on providing the best possible learning environment for our students and ensuring our campuses are fully operational, safe, and ready to support teaching and learning.”
District officials say the new deal allows Willis ISD to move forward in a “cooperative and productive partnership” with Conroe, benefiting both communities and, most importantly, their children.