More than $30 million in funding toward several infrastructure projects aimed at flood protection across western Harris County Precinct 4 were awarded and will move forward, Commissioner Lesley Briones announced during a Jan. 7 news conference.

Quote of note: “Infrastructure is critical to our safety, to our quality of life,” Briones said.

The projects prioritize public safety, flood mitigation, enhanced connectivity and improved park access as part of the next phase stemming from the Places 4 People initiative, which launched in 2023.

The timeline: The completion of partnership agreements between local agencies is set for June, with project start dates estimated for the fall.

Latest update: Projects announced span throughout Alief, Sharpstown, Westchase and surrounding neighborhoods and include:

• Reconstructing nearly 4 miles of local streets and adding two new detention ponds in Alief
• Constructing sidewalks and roadways as well as upgrading stormwater sewer drainage in the Westchase District
• Improving mobility with a shared-use path linking Beechnut Street to Brays Bayou in the Sharpstown area
• Linking schools and parks to Brays Bayou Greenway

Harris County commissioners unanimously approved Jonathan Fombonne as the new county attorney on Jan. 8, a position effective immediately. Fombonne thanked his county attorney staff and his family after commissioners invited him to speak at the Downtown Houston court meeting. 

“Thank you again for your confidence and for this opportunity,” Fombonne said. “I’m honored to serve, and I look forward to working with each one of you.”

The big picture: Fombonne served as deputy county attorney in the county attorney’s office and now replaces a vacant county position after former County Attorney Christian Menefee resigned March 17, after the announcement of his campaign run for U.S. Congress District 18. Menefee leaves the county attorney position after serving five years in office.

Quote of note: Fombonne said it has been an honor serving people with humility and earning their trust with hard work over the past five years with Menefee.

“I learned a lot from working with him, and I’m thankful for his leadership and for the team he built,” Fombonne said. 

La-Z-Boy is now open along the Grand Parkway at the intersection of Hwy. 249 according to store officials.

The details: The home furniture retailer offers a variety of furniture for rooms, including living rooms, kitchens and bedrooms, according to its website. The store also offers design help for coordinating pieces and colors to fit the needs of each home.

• Opened Nov. 14
• 13706 Interchange Drive, Tomball