The Conroe City Council held a workshop on August 13, 2025, to discuss a proposed amendment to the city charter that would transition from a council-mayor to a council-manager form of government. The primary focus of the meeting was to clarify the implications of this change and address concerns from council members regarding the distribution of power between elected officials and the city manager.

The proposed amendment aims to establish a professional city manager position, appointed by the city council, who would oversee the day-to-day operations of the city. This shift is intended to enhance operational efficiency by delegating administrative responsibilities to a qualified individual, while the city council retains legislative authority and policy-making powers.

During the discussions, council members sought to understand how this change would affect their current roles and responsibilities. It was clarified that the council would not lose any powers; rather, the city manager would handle daily operations, allowing council members to focus on broader legislative duties. The city manager would be responsible for recommending appointments for key positions, such as the police chief and finance director, which would still require council approval.

Council members expressed concerns about the potential for reduced influence over appointments, but it was emphasized that the council would still play a crucial role in the hiring process. The city manager would make recommendations, but the final decisions would rest with the council, ensuring that elected officials maintain a voice in significant appointments.

The workshop also highlighted the trend among Texas cities, where a majority have adopted a council-manager system, citing its advantages in reducing politicization of administrative roles. The council discussed the importance of maintaining a balance between professional management and elected oversight to ensure effective governance.

As the meeting progressed, council members agreed to review the proposed charter changes line by line to address any remaining questions and ensure clarity on the implications of the transition. The workshop concluded with a commitment to further examine the details of the amendment and its potential impact on the governance of Conroe.