Governance Historical Resources

Background

In 2007, voters overwhelmingly approved a change in governmental structure that allowed residents to ultimately determine their future and release The Woodlands from annexation possibilities by the cities of Houston and Conroe. The Woodlands Township entered into Regional Participation Agreements (RPAs) with both cities that allow residents of The Woodlands to decide their future governance. At that time, Town Center Improvement District (TCID) changed its name to The Woodlands Township, and the Community Associations entered into an agreement that would transfer services and operation to the Township. The Woodlands Township assumed all responsibilities and services previously provided by the Community Associations on January 1, 2010, and the Community Associations were dissolved. These changes in governmental structure occurred after many years of dialogue and study.

The 2012 Woodlands Future Governance Study

A key provision of the RPAs provides The Woodlands with the ability to determine its future governance over the next 50 years, including the opportunity to incorporate as a city until November 2057. From 2011 – 2012, The Woodlands Township Board of Directors facilitated a process that included research, analysis, and dialogue with citizens, businesses, and service providers. The purpose of this process was to determine what, if any, adjustments needed to be made to the current governance structure to lead the community into the future, and the outcome would be used to develop a strategic governance position. Please review a presentation on the history of governance in The Woodlands that also includes a summary of the 2012 study findings.