Sam Houston
Montgomery County’s 2025 Capital Improvement Bond: Commissioners Debate Roadmap and Timing
At Front Line Advisory Group, we believe that getting ahead of all aspects of a bond program is critical to ensuring long-term success. Montgomery County’s proactive approach to their 2025 Capital Improvement Bond demonstrates a commitment to thoughtful planning, transparency, and public engagement. By discussing external expertise, exploring project lists early, and giving constituents an opportunity to understand and influence the process, county leaders are setting a solid foundation for infrastructure growth that meets the needs of a rapidly expanding community. This kind of forward-thinking ensures that bond programs are efficient, effective, and reflective of public priorities—an approach that benefits everyone involved. We commend Montgomery County for staying ahead of the curve and fostering collaboration to shape a future-ready infrastructure plan.
As Montgomery County officials work to shape the future of local infrastructure, a proposed 2025 capital improvement bond remains a point of debate. At the Dec. 10 Commissioners Court meeting, local leaders discussed how best to proceed—especially regarding the use of an outside engineering firm to finalize a project list and ensure meaningful public engagement.
What’s at Stake in the 2025 Infrastructure Bond
The potential 2025 infrastructure bond aims to address critical mobility, road maintenance, and facility improvements across Montgomery County. Previously identified needs total around $1.5 billion, reflecting long-term growth and the necessity for improved transportation corridors. The stakes are high: county leaders must balance the scope of the bond, its tax implications, and the timeline for getting it on the May 2025 ballot.
Commissioners Court Debates Outside Expertise
Precinct 1 Commissioner Robert Walker initially proposed engaging LJA Engineering to begin preliminary bond-related work, including compiling a comprehensive project list and facilitating public engagement. This approach, supporters say, could expedite the process and ensure the community’s needs are thoroughly evaluated.
However, Precinct 2 Commissioner Charlie Riley opposed the idea, arguing that in past bond initiatives, commissioners themselves determined which road projects to prioritize. Riley’s stance suggests a preference for a more traditional, hands-on approach to shaping the capital improvement bond, maintaining direct control over project selection without incurring additional consulting costs.
In contrast, Precinct 4 Commissioner Matt Gray and County Judge Mark Keough expressed openness to leveraging outside resources. Their position stems from concerns that without external support, the process could once again be delayed. They argue that bringing in engineering experts now will help streamline the project selection phase, improve public outreach, and ensure a more refined list of bond-funded initiatives by the time the county is ready to seek voter approval.
Historical Context: Delays and Shifting Timelines
Talks of a new bond began in 2023, primarily focused on road and infrastructure expansion to keep pace with Montgomery County’s rapid growth. After initial discussions, the process stalled, and commissioners moved their bond consideration from a potential November 2023 ballot to May 2025. The new timeline was set to allow Precinct 3 Commissioner-elect Ritch Wheeler to take office and avoid the complexities of placing the bond on a contentious presidential election ballot.
Despite these adjustments, as the February 14 deadline for placing a measure on the May ballot draws near, county leaders remain divided on the best method for finalizing bond details.
In Their Own Words
- Precinct 3 Commissioner James Noack: “We’ve issued bonds ourselves before and did a superb job. LJA is a fantastic firm, but I’m not convinced we need them to guide our selection process.”
- County Judge Mark Keough: “We’ve been discussing this forever without a final project list. If there’s a catalyst—like bringing in a consulting firm—to get this moving, then that’s what we need.”
- Precinct 2 Commissioner Charlie Riley: “I know what roads we need. We don’t even know if we’re going out for $200 million, $400 million, or $500 million. Until that’s settled, I don’t see the need for outside help.”
- Precinct 4 Commissioner Matt Gray: “We’ve been kicking the can for two years. Let’s get ahead, engage the public, and ensure everyone understands the needs before it’s too late.”
Next Steps: Dec. 17 Meeting and Beyond
On Dec. 10, Commissioners voted 4-1 to defer the decision on contracting with LJA Engineering until Dec. 17. At that upcoming session, officials will review a formal contract proposal and determine whether to invest in external consulting services. Meanwhile, the Feb. 14 filing deadline for the May ballot looms large, leaving county leaders with limited time to finalize the capital improvement bond details.
Public Engagement and Fiscal Responsibility
A well-structured 2025 capital improvement bond could enhance quality of life, attract business investments, and ensure future mobility solutions for a rapidly growing county. However, voters will likely scrutinize the final bond amount and any potential tax rate impacts. Early estimates suggest that, depending on the final bond size, property tax rates could change. While a modest $165 million bond might be tax-neutral, a larger $500 million package could raise the rate by 1.5 cents per $100 valuation.
As commissioners weigh whether to utilize external experts to expedite the process, community members are encouraged to stay informed, attend public meetings, and voice their opinions. The debate over whether to bring in consultants like LJA Engineering is about more than just efficiency—it’s about ensuring the bond reflects residents’ priorities, financial realities, and the critical infrastructure that will define Montgomery County’s future.
Stay tuned for the Dec. 17 Commissioners Court meeting at 501 N. Thompson St. in Conroe, where decisive action on the 2025 capital improvement bond and its accompanying consulting services may finally take shape.
At Front Line Advisory Group, we are pioneers in Capital Improvement Bond Management, leveraging unparalleled expertise and deep industry insights. Our mission extends beyond consultation – we empower our clients to realize the full potential of their investments, ensuring tax dollars are put to maximum use through astute Program Management Consulting. For more information or to commence your journey towards transformative bond management, reach out to us at info@frontlineadvisorygroup.com
