Conroe Council Tackles Hyatt Funds, Street Closure Fees

**Conroe City Council to Address Key Financials: Hyatt Expansion and New Event Fees on December 9 Agenda**

**CONROE, TX –** The Conroe City Council is poised to make significant financial decisions impacting the city’s future development and community events during their upcoming meeting on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. Council members will delve into a substantial budget adjustment for the highly anticipated Hyatt Regency & Convention Center and consider the implementation of new fees for temporary street closures, a move that could affect event organizers across the city.

The spotlight will first fall on the new Hyatt Regency & Convention Center, currently under construction at 7500 W. League Line Road. While the overall construction budget for the expansive project remains firm at $100 million, the city is reviewing a proposed budget amendment for an additional $4.2 million. This supplemental funding is earmarked for critical components not initially included in the core construction costs, such as furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E), advanced technology infrastructure, and essential pre-opening operational expenses.

City officials emphasize that this additional funding is crucial to ensure the facility meets the high standards expected of a Hyatt Regency and to provide a seamless grand opening experience. “Projects of this scale often require flexible budgeting as design elements are finalized and technological needs evolve closer to completion,” stated City Administrator Norman Reynolds, anticipating the council’s discussion. “This $4.2 million ensures the convention center and hotel will be fully equipped and ready to deliver a world-class experience, attracting visitors and economic growth to Conroe from day one.”

The proposed funding sources for this amendment would strategically pull from existing city accounts, primarily drawing from Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) revenue, funds from Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) No. 3 (City Center), and allocations from the Conroe Industrial Development Corporation (CIDC). These specific revenue streams are generated through economic activity and designated for projects that enhance tourism, stimulate development, and foster economic expansion, meaning the cost is not directly borne by general property taxes. The project remains on track for its anticipated late 2026 completion, promising a significant boost to Conroe’s tourism and convention industry.

Beyond the major development, the Council will also tackle a policy change directly impacting local events and festivals: the establishment of new fees for temporary street closures. If approved, these fees would take effect starting January 1, 2026, aiming to standardize and streamline the process for numerous community activities.

The proposed fee structure includes a base fee of $250 for closing up to two city blocks, with an additional $50 charged for each subsequent block. Event organizers would also be required to pay a non-refundable $250 application fee. For recurring events, an annual permit option would be available, providing a simplified process for long-standing traditions.

City officials indicate that the new policy is a response to the increasing number of events utilizing public streets, particularly in the bustling downtown area. “As Conroe continues to grow and our community becomes more vibrant, we’ve seen a significant increase in requests for street closures,” explained a spokesperson for the Conroe Public Works Department. “These fees are designed to help offset the administrative costs associated with processing applications, coordinating with city services like police and fire for safety, and managing traffic flow during these closures.”

The policy specifically targets events that temporarily shut down city-maintained roads such as Main Street, Simonton Street, Pacific Street, and Madeira Street in the city’s core. However, several important exemptions are proposed: closures on state-maintained roads, like those overseen by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), would not be subject to these new city fees. Similarly, city-sponsored events, essential utilities work, and school district activities would also be exempt, ensuring that critical public services and established municipal events are not impacted.

Local event organizers have expressed mixed reactions, with some understanding the need for standardization while others voice concerns about potential financial burdens on smaller, non-profit events. “We appreciate the city’s efforts to streamline the process, but we hope there will be flexibility for community-focused events that operate on tight budgets,” commented Sarah Chen, organizer of the annual Conroe Fall Fest.

The public is invited to attend the December 9, 2025 City Council meeting, which will be held at Conroe City Hall, located at 300 West Davis Street. The agenda and supporting documents for these discussions are typically made available on the city’s official website, www.cityofconroe.org, in the days leading up to the meeting.