Gordy Bunch addresses crowd at The Woodlands Economic Outlook Conference

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- The Woodlands Township Chairman of the Board Gordy Bunch was a featured speaker at The Woodlands Economic Outlook Conference Jan. 27.

With a theme of “Fully Charged – Moving Forward,” The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce has produced this event annually since 1987 bringing together nationally recognized speakers, roughly 800 business and community leaders, and corporate sponsors.

What is now the largest business conference in our area, this event is for high-profile business leaders to gain insight and knowledge on the trajectory of our economy and ways to prepare for future growth. Global, national and local speakers are secured to address attendees on the economy, trends and growth.

Chairman Bunch owns one of the nation’s largest insurance agencies, The Woodlands Financial Group, and serves as a volunteer as Chairman of the Board for The Woodlands Township, the governing body for The Woodlands. In his presentation, Chairman Bunch highlighted The Woodlands Township has a strong business climate that produces strong revenues which help lower the tax rate for residents and business.

“We have one of the lowest tax rates in the region and around the state,” said Chairman Bunch, referring to The Woodlands Township’s rate that has lowered from 32.5 cents per $100 value in 2010 to 23 cents per $100 value in 2016. Additionally, The Woodlands Township has bond ratings of excellent investment quality (AA - Standard & Poor’s and A1 – Moody’s) as well as reducing debt while reserving funds for future preservation of The Woodlands.

“It’s imperative to be in a strong financial position as we must protect the values of investment in The Woodlands for years to come,” he said. “We’re in a great position due to visionary leadership yesterday, today and going forward.”

Chairman Bunch talked about key points which contribute to the success of The Woodlands — an exceptional quality of life, first class amenities, a low tax rate, a vibrant economy and intentional investment. He thanked past and present board members for having The Woodlands in such prestigious position that many other communities try to emulate. He talked about several key activities and draws in The Woodlands including The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion (#2 outdoor amphitheater in the world), the Memorial Hermann IRONMAN, which is the North American Championship; The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival, which is ranked #5 in the U.S., and The Woodlands Marathon (A Boston Marathon Qualifier). Bunch pointed out the outstanding public independent school districts, nationally ranked private schools, higher education and world class healthcare, all as reasons corporations and people invest in The Woodlands. Throughout the presentation, Chairman Bunch illustrated how The Woodlands is a model community for the nation.

To see the charts and illustrations Chairman Bunch used at the Conference, please click here: www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10080.