Conroe City Issues Five Permits for Blackfin Compressor Station Project

The Conroe City Council held a workshop on August 27, 2025, to discuss the ongoing compressor station project and clarify the city's role in the permitting process. The meeting aimed to address community concerns and provide transparency regarding the permits issued for the project.

City officials reported that five permits have been issued for the compressor station, including a development permit, floodplain permitting, a certificate of compliance, MS4 permits, and a clearing permit. These permits ensure that the project complies with city standards and state regulations. The development permit, for instance, verifies that the site meets city-adopted standards based on plans submitted by a licensed professional engineer. The floodplain permit ensures compliance with FEMA regulations, while the MS4 permit addresses stormwater management.

City representatives emphasized that the city does not design the compressor station and has no involvement in the selection of the site. They clarified that the design and engineering work are conducted by an external firm, and city management and council members were not informed about the project until recently. This lack of communication was highlighted as a point of concern, with officials stating that many staff members previously involved are no longer with the city.

During the meeting, officials confirmed that no building, electrical, water, or sewer permits have been issued for the site, reinforcing that the city’s involvement is limited to the permits already granted. The city also noted that while they have the authority to rescind permits, doing so would not halt the project since it is already underway.

The workshop concluded with a commitment from city officials to keep the community informed about the project and any updates through the city’s website. The discussions aimed to clarify misconceptions and ensure that residents understand the regulatory framework surrounding the compressor station project.