CISD Considers Public Facility Rental Changes

**Conroe ISD Eyes Major Overhaul of Facility Rentals, Community Groups Face Potential Restrictions**

**CONROE, TX –** The Conroe Independent School District (CISD) Board of Trustees is exploring significant changes to its facility rental policies, a move that could profoundly impact numerous community groups, sports leagues, and faith-based organizations currently relying on district spaces. During their December 17 meeting, the board initiated a deep dive into Policy DH (Local), signaling a potential revamp of rules that, in some cases, have remained largely untouched since 2004.

The district’s primary drivers for this reevaluation stem from escalating utility costs, the increasing administrative strain of managing a high volume of rentals, and the wear and tear inflicted on valuable district assets like gymnasiums, cafeterias, and auditoriums. Superintendent Dr. Curtis Null emphasized the growing burden these rentals place on district resources, particularly concerning utility bills and the substantial staff time required for oversight and logistics.

“Our current rates are simply not covering the costs associated with these rentals anymore,” Dr. Null stated during the discussion, highlighting the financial pressures on the district.

**What’s on the Table: Higher Costs, Tighter Access**

One of the most immediate changes expected is a significant increase in rental fees. Current rates, which have not been adjusted in nearly two decades, are widely acknowledged by the board as insufficient to offset the district’s operational expenses.

Beyond just cost, a major proposal under consideration would drastically limit who can rent CISD facilities. The discussion centered on prioritizing organizations that directly serve Conroe ISD students. This shift would mean activities directly benefiting the district’s 70,000+ students would take precedence, potentially leading to the exclusion of other community groups or organizations that do not meet this specific criterion.

Trustees also discussed implementing stricter regulations across the board. These proposed changes include:
* **Increased Insurance Requirements:** Renting organizations may need to provide more robust proof of liability insurance.
* **Specialized Facility Guidelines:** Stricter rules are anticipated for the use of facilities like kitchens and gyms, which require specialized maintenance and supervision.
* **Holiday and Break Restrictions:** Access could be limited or outright restricted during district holidays or school breaks to reduce operational demands on staff and resources.

Trustee Scott Kidd underscored the necessity of safeguarding taxpayer investment in CISD facilities. “We have a responsibility to protect these buildings and ensure they are maintained for our students first and foremost,” Kidd commented, citing concerns about potential damage and cleanliness.

**Prioritizing CISD Programs, Community Concerns Raised**

A clear consensus emerged among trustees regarding the priority of district-run activities and programs. Trustee Stacey Chase stressed the importance of ensuring CISD groups always have “first dibs” on facilities, preventing conflicts with critical school functions. Trustee Datren Williams noted that the time has come to reevaluate the existing policy to strike a better balance between providing community access and addressing the district’s operational needs.

However, the potential impact on long-standing community partners was not overlooked. Trustee Misty O’Dell voiced reservations about potentially “disenfranchising” groups that have historically utilized school facilities for years, such as local youth sports leagues, arts organizations, and community churches. O’Dell suggested exploring a tiered system, which could offer different rates or levels of access for local versus non-local organizations, or even distinguishing between non-profit community groups and for-profit entities.

Conroe ISD, one of the fastest-growing school districts in Texas, boasts a vast network of facilities across its 70+ campuses, which have long served as vital hubs for a wide array of community activities. The proposed changes highlight a growing trend among school districts facing rising operational costs and increased demand for limited resources.

District staff are now tasked with incorporating the board’s discussions and feedback into a revised version of Policy DH (Local). A new draft is expected to be presented back to the Board of Trustees for further review and, ultimately, a vote. This decision could reshape how community organizations interact with Conroe ISD facilities for years to come. The precise timeline for the revised policy’s return to the board has not yet been announced, but it is anticipated to be a priority item in upcoming meetings.

For more information on Conroe ISD policies and board meeting minutes, visit the district’s official website at [www.conroeisd.net](http://www.conroeisd.net).