A standardized worksite safety policy establishing countywide safety protocols to strengthen worker protections is now approved, following Harris County commissioners’ 3-1 vote during the Nov. 13 court meeting. Precinct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey voted in dissent.

What they're saying: The original motion by Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis outlined various goals and key components of the proposed policy that include establishing clear safety monitoring and inspection standards to enforce compliance amongst stakeholders and workers. 

"Our goal obviously is clear: zero preventable deaths, stronger safety standards and better enforcement across every county-funded project," Ellis said.

Why now?: At an active Harris Health facility construction site in the Texas Medical Center, Ellis and Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones spoke to the media Nov. 12 about the need for the worksite policy alongside union leaders, local business leaders and contractors.

"The county makes it clear that no worker should have to choose between their job and their life," said Linda Morales, organizing coordinator at the Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation.

Lone Star College-University Park recently celebrated the official ribbon-cutting of its on-campus courtroom Nov. 6, the college announced in a news release.

The gist: The event was hosted by Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences as a "mark a major milestone for the college’s paralegal studies and criminal justice programs," college officials said. Matthew Dempsey, Lone Star College-University Park president, officially cut the ribbon to open the courtroom following remarks from Bobby Lieb, Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce president.

Notable quote: “This new courtroom is more than a facility; it’s a hands-on learning environment that prepares students to step confidently into professional legal settings,” Dempsey said. “We’re proud to provide a space where our students can practice the skills they’ll need to thrive in the legal and justice fields.”

Several organizations are hosting free Thanksgiving dinners, distributing free food and delivering free meals in the Greater Houston area this Thanksgiving season.

Turkey and Blessings
The Lindale Church is hosting a free Thanksgiving worship service and dinner for the community.

• Nov. 25, 6:30-8 p.m.
• Free
• Lindale Church, 503 Reid St., Houston

• Nov. 26, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Free
• Salem Community Center, 22601 Lutheran Church Road, Tomball

• Nov. 27, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
• Free (admission)
• 12100 Champion Forest Drive, Houston

Because the holiday season can put a strain on struggling families, dozens of organizations across Houston are partnering with local nonprofits and food banks to help provide meals.

For those looking to give, here are 15 local spots to drop off food donations for families in need in the Greater Houston area.

Montgomery County Food Bank: The food bank is partnering with local businesses across the county throughout November and December to collect food donations for the holidays. 

• Through Dec. 31 
• Sample items accepted: cereals, healthy snacks, canned vegetables, canned fruits, grains, canned meat, peanut butter, canned soup, jelly and jam
• 1 Food For Life Way, Conroe

Missed any Community Impact articles from this week? Check out the top trending stories from Community Impact's coverage areas in Houston from Nov. 10-14.

1. Hines acquires over 1.5K acres of land in League City

2. Gov. Abbott launches reelection bid, vows to end school property taxes

3. Cy-Fair ISD to launch virtual learning programs starting fall 2026

4. Cy-Fair ISD narrows 2025 deficit by more than $16 million, report finds

5. Conroe Feeders Supply closes its doors