David Willard officially became Conroe’s city administrator on Aug. 10 after the City Council unanimously appointed him on July 23. Willard, who previously served as city manager in Longview and Borger and as an assistant city manager in Odessa, said his top priorities center on relationships, staffing and public safety.
Building Relationships and Filling Vacancies
Willard explained that his first task is to get to know each council member, the mayor and city staff. He is meeting individually with council members and touring department locations to understand how they expect him to work with them. “Relationships are really important to me,” he said, noting that he has already visited most departments and will continue to do so.
Staffing gaps are another major focus. The administration has recently filled two key positions in Public Works and Community Development and is actively recruiting for a human‑resources director, an economic‑development director and a parks‑and‑recreation director. Willard emphasized that stabilizing leadership will improve morale, which he says is already on the upswing.
Public Safety as a Growth Priority
Willard identified public safety as the foremost concern amid Conroe’s rapid expansion. He wants the police department to move toward a two‑officer‑per‑car model and the fire department to staff four firefighters per engine. While acknowledging budget constraints, he said the city is committed to providing the equipment and personnel needed for first responders.
Infrastructure and Rate Balancing
Water, wastewater, roads and drainage are critical infrastructure needs. Willard described the challenge of funding these projects without overburdening ratepayers or developers. He explained that the city relies on water and sewer revenue bonds to finance new treatment plants and that many municipalities use impact or drainage fees to offset road and bridge costs. The council is still weighing a proposed drainage fee, weighing the cost to residents against the high expense of replacing or repairing infrastructure.
Hyatt Regency Conroe Hotel Situation
The Hyatt Regency Conroe Hotel and Convention Center continues to require municipal financial support. Willard said the hotel’s ownership structure, involving a municipal corporation and the Conroe Industrial Development Corporation, makes the financial picture complex. He offered no quick solution but affirmed the city will work to make the facility competitive with nearby venues such as The Woodlands.
Looking Ahead
Willard concluded that his administration will remain proactive, collaborative and positive. Regular Monday‑morning staff meetings with directors are intended to foster teamwork and keep the city’s growth plans on track while ensuring current residents receive reliable services at reasonable rates.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Houston — read the source article.
