Montgomery Co. UDC: Housing, Development, & Costs

**Montgomery County Poised for Pivotal Vote on Development Code Update, Sparks Debate Over Housing Affordability and Growth Management**

**CONROE, TX – May 27, 2024** – The Montgomery County Commissioners Court is scheduled to make a potentially far-reaching decision on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, concerning a comprehensive overhaul of its Unified Development Code (UDC) for unincorporated areas. Spearheaded by County Judge Mark Keough, the proposed update has ignited a fierce debate, with critics warning it could significantly increase housing costs, stifle development, and disproportionately impact smaller builders and average homeowners across Montgomery County, Texas.

The core of the proposed changes revolves around substantial adjustments to minimum residential lot sizes. Under the new UDC, standard residential lots would see a minimum increase to 10,000 square feet. For properties relying on septic systems, the minimum lot size would more than double to a hefty 20,000 square feet. Furthermore, designated “Rural Zones” are slated to require a full one-acre minimum per lot.

Beyond lot size, the new UDC introduces a suite of mandatory requirements for new developments. These include the necessity for professional engineering, comprehensive drainage studies, environmental assessments, and provisions for tree preservation, enhanced landscaping, fencing, and even streetlights.

**Proponents vs. Opponents: A Clash Over Growth and Affordability**

Proponents, led by County Judge Mark Keough, argue that these changes are vital to modernize the county’s existing UDC, originally adopted in 2020, and to effectively manage the county’s explosive growth. They contend that the updated regulations are necessary to protect infrastructure, ensure responsible development patterns, maintain environmental quality, and preserve the desired character and property values within unincorporated areas. The rapid influx of new residents, they say, necessitates more robust standards to prevent unchecked sprawl and associated strains on resources.

However, a chorus of opponents expresses grave concerns, particularly over the potential economic fallout. Critics contend that the proposed regulations, slated for a potential effective date of July 1, 2024, would necessitate expensive professional services – such as engineers, environmental consultants, and landscape architects – for nearly any development project, from the construction of a new home to even a significant addition on existing property.

This increased regulatory burden, opponents argue, would directly translate to higher housing costs, pushing homeownership further out of reach for many residents. They also warn of a chilling effect on development, especially for small-scale builders who may lack the resources to navigate the complex and costly new requirements. This, they suggest, could create an uneven playing field that disproportionately favors larger, better-resourced developers and consulting firms.

“For an average family looking to build their dream home or a small builder trying to provide affordable options, these new requirements could add tens of thousands of dollars to project costs,” one critic, who wished to remain anonymous to avoid potential retribution, stated. “It’s not just about lot size; it’s about the layers of studies and services now mandated.”

**New Staffing, Higher Fees, and Concerns Over Public Input**

Another key point of contention is the anticipated need for additional county staff to enforce the new UDC. The proposal reportedly includes the necessity of hiring a new County Engineer and a Director of Planning. These new positions, coupled with the increased complexity of reviews, are expected to lead to significantly higher permit and review fees, further adding to development costs.

Opponents have also voiced strong concerns over what they describe as a rushed process and a critical lack of public input, especially from small-scale builders and the broader community directly affected by these changes. They argue that insufficient opportunity has been provided for detailed discussion, amendment suggestions, or a thorough understanding of the regulations’ full impact before such a monumental vote.

**What Happens Next?**

The Montgomery County Commissioners Court meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at [Time, e.g., 9:30 AM] in the Commissioners Court Chambers at the Alan B. Sadler Commissioners Court Building, located at 501 North Thompson Street, Conroe, Texas.

The public is encouraged to attend or follow the proceedings online via the county’s live stream [Link to Montgomery County Commissioners Court Live Stream]. The agenda for the meeting, including details on the UDC update, is available on the Montgomery County website [Link to Montgomery County Commissioners Court Agenda].

The decision on Tuesday will determine the future landscape of development in unincorporated Montgomery County, potentially altering the trajectory of housing affordability and growth management for years to come.