With Harris County commissioners set to make budget amendments next week, Commissioner Rodney Ellis is making an appeal for $4.5 million to go toward four community safety programs and strategies.

The big picture: The request is based on a report from Ellis’ office and Georgetown Law’s Center for Innovations in Community Safety. It evaluates results from three county programs, recommending investment to expand and sustain them, in addition to creating a community safety department. The county launched HART, RISE and the domestic violence intervention and prevention programs four years ago, which the report examines.

The context: The Harris County Commissioners Court is facing a $181 million shortfall, as Community Impact previously reported.

Sophie Elsner, senior policy adviser for Ellis’ office, said the county’s deficit will continue to grow if there is no change to how money is spent. About 60% of the budget goes toward the criminal justice system, which includes law enforcement, courts, prosecution and defense, she said.

Panaderia las Delicias, a cuban bakery and restaurant, has opened its doors in Spring, officials confirmed.

The overview: According to its website, Panaderia las Delicias serves cuban pizzas, empanadas, sandwiches, spaghetti, hamburgers and a variety of chilled deserts, including:

• Marquesitas
• Cabezote
• Ensalada Fria

The restaurant is open 8 a.m.-8 p.m. every day, per the website. It offers carryout and delivery services, and customers can place orders online.

Two candidates are running for Texas House District 139 in the Nov. 3 election, challenger Kyle Harding and Charlene Ward Johnson who is seeking reelection.

What you need to know: Early voting begins Oct. 19 and runs through Oct. 30, according to the Texas Secretary of State's website. Election day is Nov. 3 and polls are open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
Registered voters can cast their ballot at any polling location during early voting and on election day. Voters can visit www.harrisvotes.com more information.