What price freedom? For The Woodlands, about $45M

Looks like we can stop wondering whether The Woodlands will end up being part of Houston — what, didn't you stay up nights thinking about it? Yesterday, Mayor Bill White and state Sen. Tommy Williams announced a deal that Houston will never annex The Woodlands in exchange for The Woodlands' commitment to mutually beneficial financial partnerships.

"Most of us believe that those decisions should ultimately being the hands of the people most affected and that is the people of The Woodlands," said Mayor White.

In its place, The Woodlands has agreed to contribute financially to a number of improvements for regional projects, like roads and parks.

"This regional participation agreement provides for The Woodlands to determine our own future and form of self government," said Senator Williams. "It removes the threat of unilateral annexation."

Assuming the agreement works out as planned, The Woodlands could pump as much as $45 million into Houston projects over the next 30 years, KHOU reports — including $20 million for mobility, $15 million for parks and recreation and $10 million for the Texas Medical Center. It means sales taxes could increase in The Woodlands, but keeping options on the table is worth it, Williams said: "I think the thing that the residents are going to take away from this is that we will not face a unilateral annexation, annexation against our will, that we have a method for self determination as we move forward."

The deal still needs the approval of the state Legislature; Williams and state Rep. Rob Eissler said they would get legislation passed in the coming session. According to the Chronicle, the agreement opens the door for Woodlands residents to vote next year on expanding an improvement district, a possible first step toward incorporation.