On Sept. 21, Bellaire City Council unanimously adopted an ordinance amending two sections of the city code to ease parking requirements and supply in commercial districts.

The changes aim to alleviate development constraints for business owners and patrons while protecting neighboring residential properties.

The background: Since parking standard-related discussions began in May, Bellaire’s Planning & Zoning Commission and Development Services Department collaborated to draft several proposed amendments based on objectives outlined in the city’s comprehensive plan. Proposals include:

• Altering or replacing certain standards related to permitted uses for off-street parking and loading

• Providing a pathway for parking credits and reductions

• Elaborating further on bicycle parking and ride-sharing regulations

• Granting business owners more flexibility for off-site and shared parking

What's changed: The now-amended sections of the city’s code of ordinances involve off-street parking and loading requirements, and parking requirements for non-single-family structures and developments, according to the Sept. 21 meeting presentation.

The luxury destination restaurant Mack Allen’s officially celebrated its grand opening on Sept. 14. Located at 4400 Post Oak Parkway in Houston, the 16,000-square-foot venue is one of entrepreneur Mack McDonald’s latest fine dining concepts.

What to expect: Mack Allen’s serves patrons an elevated version of American cuisine. The menu, crafted by executive chef Carlos Andrade and regional chef Manuel Viveros, boasts prime steaks and Australian wagyu as its specialties, in addition to seafood and other globally inspired preparations, according to a news release.

Mack Allen’s food options are complemented by a 1-000-bottle wine collection and a robust spirits program.

The restaurant also features an outdoor courtyard garden oasis, a raw bar and three private dining rooms. Reservations can be made via OpenTable, and both curbside valet and self-parking are available on-site.

• 4400 Post Oak Parkway, Houston

The nonprofit organization United Way of Greater Houston announced Sept. 21 that CEO Amanda McMillian will retire on May 1, 2027. The board unanimously selected Angel Harris, the current vice president and chief advancement officer, to succeed her.

Harris will assume the president and CEO role immediately, while McMillian remains in her role through a nine-month transition.

Read all about it: Harris joined the nonprofit in 2021 with 30 years of nonprofit experience. In her five years in Houston, Harris has accomplished the following:

• Led organizational efforts for the Building Possibilities Campaign, raising more than $30 million to upgrade infrastructure and technology

• Helped rebrand marketing and communications initiatives

• Developed an eight-year revenue growth plan to generate over $580 million by 2031

A search for United Way's next chief advancement officer to replace Harris is currently underway, nonprofit officials said.

Something to note: United Way of Greater Houston is a nonprofit organization that connects residents in need with basic resources, financial stability programs, healthcare and support services, according to the organization's website.

Candidates Abbie Kamin and Jacqueline Lucci Smith are set to face off in November’s election for a chance to lead Harris County’s chief civil law office.

What you need to know: The Harris County Attorney’s Office works on the county’s behalf in civil litigation, also providing legal counsel to county elected officials, employees and departments, according to its website.

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 will be open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

Registered voters can cast their ballot at any polling location during early voting and Election Day.

DaVita, in collaboration with Bridge of Life, the YMCA and local community partners, will host free health screenings at three Houston-area locations Sept. 24-26.

What you need to know: No appointment or insurance is required, and walk-ins are welcome. The free community event will offer preventive health services, including flu vaccines, dental screenings, food distribution and free haircuts.