Woodlands Expands Public Safety Resources

**The Woodlands Township Board Approves Major Public Safety Enhancements, Funding New Deputies and MCSO Substation**

THE WOODLANDS, TX – The Woodlands Township Board of Directors significantly boosted its commitment to public safety last Thursday, May 16, 2024, unanimously approving more than $1.6 million in new funding to expand local law enforcement presence and capabilities. The strategic investment will bring a substantial increase in dedicated deputies to the community and establish a new Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) substation within The Woodlands.

Central to the public safety initiative is a $1.5 million allocation to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office for the upcoming fiscal year, spanning October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. This funding is earmarked to deploy twelve brand-new deputies and a sergeant specifically assigned to The Woodlands. In a significant move to enhance local responsiveness and visibility, a new MCSO substation will also be constructed in the vicinity of Woodlands Parkway and Branch Crossing.

Sheriff Rand Henderson expressed enthusiasm for the expanded partnership, highlighting the proactive crime-fighting potential. “This partnership with The Woodlands Township is crucial,” Sheriff Henderson stated. “Having deputies physically based here, with increased numbers, will not only improve our response times but also allow us to engage more proactively in preventing crime and ensuring the safety of residents.”

In addition to the MCSO funding, the Board also unanimously approved an agreement with the Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 (MCP3), dedicating approximately $120,000 for the same fiscal year. This agreement will add an extra deputy to patrol The Woodlands. Constable Ryan Gable affirmed the importance of the support, noting, “This additional resource helps us maintain our comprehensive patrols and further strengthens our ability to keep The Woodlands safe for everyone.”

Beyond resource allocation, the Board also initiated efforts to improve communication channels between residents and law enforcement. Director Richard Franks is leading the development of a new policy aimed at making it easier for community members to voice their public safety concerns and ensure their feedback is effectively addressed by authorities. This move underscores the Township’s dedication to resident engagement and responsive governance.

Chairman Dr. Ann K. Snyder reiterated the Township’s foundational commitment to safety. “Public safety is, and always will be, a top priority for The Woodlands Township,” Dr. Snyder emphasized during the meeting. Director Brad Bailey further highlighted The Woodlands’ unique and comprehensive approach to law enforcement, noting that the Township contracts with three different agencies—MCSO, MCP3, and Harris County Precinct 4 Constables—to provide robust coverage across both Montgomery and Harris County portions of the community. This multi-agency strategy ensures seamless, thorough protection for all residents, regardless of county lines.

These significant approvals reflect the Township Board’s unified focus on maintaining and enhancing the high quality of life and safety that The Woodlands is known for, anticipating a stronger, more visible law enforcement presence throughout the community in the coming year. For more information on The Woodlands Township’s public safety initiatives, residents are encouraged to visit the Township’s official website.