Along a small stretch of road in southwest Tomball sit some of Precinct 4’s free public dumpsters. Monday through Saturday, the dumpsters take branches, scrap wood, mattresses, and much more. But without Craig Hogg, the dumpsters wouldn’t operate. Craig has spent nearly a decade with Precinct 4 working various jobs, but since 2022, he has been the sole person in charge of the site.

Harris County Precinct 4 team members have been hosting An Evening Under the Stars one Saturday a month for several years. The free, all-ages event teaches residents about space and our environment, and visitors even get a chance to view the sky through high-powered telescopes.

Raising my three daughters is the joy of my life. And, as a mom, I know — as all parents do — that having kids leads to a lifetime of love — and hard choices. In a nation where only 13 states mandate paid family leave and where moms make only 63 cents to every dollar fathers are paid, moms are often penalized, rather than celebrated.

Today, Harris County Commissioners instructed the Harris County Attorney and Department of Intergovernmental and Global Affairs to work with the City of Houston and City Attorney to negotiate compensation for Houston’s first responders for responses on the Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA) system.

Since Bayland opened in the 1950s, it has been a hub for youth sports. Today, it’s home to a dozen baseball fields, two soccer pitches, four tennis courts, and a football field. While the Sharpstown area has grown substantially since the ‘50s, Bayland Park has never been renovated. That’s why Commissioner Lesley Briones made transforming Bayland Park a priority.

For more than three decades, the Southern Region Office of one of the largest international Buddhist organizations has operated out of Sharpstown in Precinct 4.

May is AANHPI Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the history, culture, and contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawai’ians, and Pacific Islanders.

John Paul Landing Park is a destination for outdoor lovers, offering nearly eight miles of trails, three playgrounds, a beautiful nature center, and over 850 acres of greenspaces and wetland. But John Paul Landing is more than a park; it is a shining example of how flood control, wildlife habitat conservation, and public recreation can come together in one thoughtfully designed space.

Laura Medick has always been curious about nature. As a child, she would often visit her grandmother’s ranch, where she was surrounded by different plants and animals. Yet, it wasn’t until a camping trip with her Girl Scout troop that she realized she truly loved the outdoors. When she sat down for the first time to roast marshmallows with her friends, she decided that her future career had to have a tie to the environment.

In a swift reversal, the federal government has released critical refugee health funding to Harris County, just days after Commissioner Lesley Briones and County Attorney Christian Menefee announced a lawsuit demanding action.

Anyone can sign up for a plot at two of the community centers — Burnett Bayland and Freed. The third community garden is reserved for seniors and is located at Glazier Senior Education Center. Applications are reviewed yearly during the summer, and if approved, the resident has control over their plot for one year, starting in September.

Commissioner Lesley Briones is proud to announce the appointment of Ryan Ramphul, PhD, and Deborah Y. Chen, Esq., to the newly-established Harris County AAPI Commission.

The first Latino-led masjid (or mosque) in America sits just off the Westpark Tollway in the heart of one of Harris County's most diverse communities: Alief. But the organization wasn't always located there, even though it was created by Alief native, Jaime "Mujahid" Fletcher.

Harris County Commissioners unanimously approved a plan spearheaded by Commissioner Lesley Briones and Commissioner Rodney Ellis to enact a groundbreaking living wage policy, significantly increasing the minimum wage for county employees and contractors.

The Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC) is proud to announce the opening of phase one of One Safe Place Houston, marking the next chapter in its 48-year history of empowering survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and sex trafficking. One Safe Place Houston represents a groundbreaking initiative in survivor care—a comprehensive, secure and disclosed, 5.5-acre campus designed to provide wraparound client-centered services for survivors and their children. This facility is the first of its kind and one-of-a-kind and radically reimagines what housing should look like for a survivor on their transformative journey.

In March 2024, Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones launched Sidewalks 4 Precinct 4, an ambitious initiative to build 50 miles of sidewalks within one year. The goal was to ensure these sidewalks weren’t just paths, but also safe connections that enable thousands of residents to get to school, work, doctor’s appointments, and places of worship.

Just one year after launching her innovative Sidewalks 4 Precinct 4 initiative, Commissioner Lesley Briones delivered on her commitment to increase walkability and accessibility to safely connect communities with the completion of 50 miles of sidewalks throughout unincorporated Harris County.

In the traditional Black Baptist churches of her childhood, Dr. Evelyn Ogletree didn’t see women in leadership roles. While faith was central to her upbringing, her close relationships with pastors like her father and stepfather taught her one thing: she never wanted to be a pastor’s wife.

Talya Morris jokes that she started working in public service because baseball wasn’t hiring.

The lobby of the Fonteno Senior Education Center is a sea of denim and flannel. A few cowboy hats stand out among the more than 30 people chatting, grabbing coffee, and a few are finishing a 1,000-piece puzzle. Soon, a Precinct 4 bus pulls up, and these 32 seniors are on their way to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for free.

Over a billion Muslims worldwide, including 200,000 in the Harris County area, have begun the observance of Ramadan. People across the world celebrate Ramadan differently, but for all Muslims, it is a time of reflection and service dedicated to connecting with their faith.

Kyla Bayang wasn’t always a Tomball resident. Originally from Tatum, New Mexico, she moved to Tomball in the ‘90s and fell in love with the small-town charm and the city’s deep history.

Every March, we come together to celebrate the women who have shaped our history and continue to break barriers today. From the trailblazers who fought for the right to vote to the innovators revolutionizing science, business, and the arts; Women's History Month is a time to honor their achievements and reaffirm our commitment to the work that remains.

Black History Month is celebrated across America every February, but history is constantly being written right here in Harris County. This month – and every month – Precinct 4 is dedicated to uplifting the voices of Black changemakers throughout the region. Here are three Harris County residents who are shaping the future of education, activism, and justice.

Couples from around Harris County register weeks in advance to secure their spot at the dance and luncheon. Precinct 4 holds the event every year to give seniors a way to connect with their friends and meet new ones. Nearly 250 people spent part of their Valentine’s Day at the dance, connecting with friends, dancing with their partners, and remembering why they fell in love.

Precinct 4 Parks Earns Recognition as a Regional Model for Innovative Educational Experiences

Patrick Johnson is the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Manager for Precinct 4. As he tells his kids, he’s a map maker, but his maps do more than identify locations— they help people make better decisions.

Precinct 4 buses have gotten a redesign. The buses—used for educational senior trips, transporting supplies, and cooling or warming centers during disasters—have been transformed by student artists from the Precinct.

When a once-in-a-generation snowstorm hit Harris County in late January, Precinct 4 team members stepped up to keep residents safe. From making sure emergency responders could drive safely on the roads, to keeping those without power warm and fed, here are just a few of the stories of the people who kept Precinct 4 safe during the freeze.

Brays Bayou winds its way through the heart of Houston in a stretch of over 30 miles, offering joggers, cyclists, and families alike an escape from the concrete metropolis so many residents call home.

February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate the triumphs and accomplishments of Black Americans. Join Precinct 4 at an event near you as we honor how Black Americans have shaped art, science, and culture throughout history.

On Jan. 29, Commissioner Lesley Briones officially renamed the Alief Linear Forest as the Barbara Quattro Forest, honoring her years of advocacy for greenspaces. Surrounded by family, friends, Alief ISD students, and other community members, Quattro watched as Precinct 4 installed the sign marking the name change.

Every Wednesday morning at 10 a.m., a group of retirees in matching red T-shirts files into the Tracy Gee Community Center. Their energy is infectious. Through their laughter, I hear conversations about their spouses, kids, and hobbies.

Projects will add or enhance 4.4 miles of trails along the Brays Bayou Greenway

Alief is known as one of Harris County’s largest melting pots. With more than 100,000 residents from dozens of countries, Alief attracts visitors who will find restaurants serving authentic cuisine from around the globe, street signs in various languages, and every type of place of worship. In the thick of it all is Precinct 4 Community Engagement Coordinator (CEC) Miracle Bui.

Funding will support planning study to examine capping Interstate 10 along Inner Katy Corridor with urban park, mixed-use development and multimodal infrastructure

Every morning, Malcolm Allicock sets out from his apartment complex, which is along Addicks Clodine and Westpark. Walking cane in hand, he navigates the path to the neighborhood convenience store ─ a path he knows by touch and memory.

The new fire codes are the result of extensive collaboration among County departments, local leaders, and safety experts to address pressing challenges revealed during natural disasters and public safety crises.

Burnett Bayland Park has remained a destination for sports tournaments, outdoor activities, and community for Gulfton-area residents for decades. Now, through Precinct 4’s newly released plan for the park, Burnett Bayland Park will undergo a major transformation that will introduce new best-in-class amenities like a food truck park and lush landscaping and greenspaces.

Funds will support recovery from Hurricane Beryl, Derecho

New fire code amendment protects seniors and vulnerable residents during power outages and extreme weather

Every Wednesday at 8:30 a.m., a small group of people, binoculars in hand, set out on the nearly 0.75-mile trail at Precinct 4’s Kleb Woods Nature Center. The trail is quiet. The only thing the visitors can hear is the soft hum of the highway and the crunch of leaves under their feet. But, if they’re still, they can hear what they came for—the occasional chirp of a bird hiding in the brush or flitting between the trees.

Daikin Park is officially the new name of the Houston Astros baseball stadium, but did you know that Daikin is also the largest employer in Precinct 4? We sat down with Kristi Pittman, Senior Vice President of Human Resources for Daikin, to talk about Daikin’s contribution to not only the City of Waller, but also all of Precinct 4.

Residents in Harris County Precinct 4—from Katy to Tomball to Spring Branch, all the way up to Hockley and Waller—have seen major changes in their neighborhoods. Commissioner Lesley Briones and her team of over 460 public servants dedicated 2024 to addressing urgent needs while laying a strong foundation for the future.

Growing up, Houston Dash superstars Michelle Alozie, Jane Campbell, and Paige Nielsen didn’t always have easy access to soccer fields. From climbing fences to playing against walls, they managed to find space anywhere they could just to get some touches on the ball.

For the first time since its establishment, the Harris County Safe School Commission (SSC) created dedicated high school student seats. In a unanimous vote, Harris County Commissioners Court approved the appointments of 15-year-old Ngoc Ho and 17-year-old Ashlyn Morton to the new student at-large positions.

Commissioner Lesley Briones has appointed Carlos Duarte to the Hispanic Cultural Heritage Commission and Carrie Rai to the Harris County Housing Authority.

New coordination and support services funding will expand critical resources for survivors

20 infrastructure projects advance through Commissioner Briones' Places 4 People initiative, including first-ever collaboration with City of Katy

The holiday season has begun, kids will soon be on winter break, and everybody is looking for fun ways to spend time with their loved ones. Precinct 4 has dozens of free events at our community centers for people of all ages. So, put on your favorite holiday sweater and bring your family to make crafts, watch movies, and celebrate the holidays.

Nursing parents at the Harris County Juvenile Justice Center will soon have a new, private space to pump or feed their children, thanks to a $25,000 grant from the Texas Bar Foundation. This latest addition, supported by Precinct4Forward and Commissioner Lesley Briones, builds on Harris County’s commitment to advancing health and good governance through family-friendly policies.

Richard Francis has been a full-time electrician for 38 years, but he’s been doing electrical work since before he started high school. He didn’t have the typical apprenticeship that many tradespeople take on, but he started learning the way many people pick up new skills: from their parents.

As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us reflect on the things that make our community stronger — the acts of service, the bonds we share, and the spaces that bring us together. For Denise Cope, the volunteer librarian at Bayland Community Center, it’s her passion for literature and commitment to enriching lives through the Center’s library.

New Initiative Provides Free Food and Health Resources to Strengthen Gulfton and Sharpstown Communities

Transgender Day of Remembrance falls on November 20th every year. The day is a time for people to honor and celebrate Transgender individuals lost due to anti-Transgender violence. In 2024 alone, at least 28 Transgender individuals have been killed and an untold number have taken their own lives due to bullying and discrimination.

Harris County’s LGBTQIA+ Commission has released its inaugural report, which goes in depth about its accomplishments and work over its first year. The Commission spoke with residents and came up with recommendations on how the County can support the LGTBQIA+ community.

New Report Outlines Key Community Insights and Recommendations to Advance Equality, Equity, and Inclusion in Harris County

In this insightful interview, Bre’Anna Bivens, Strategic Communications Specialist for Commissioner Briones, speaks with arborist Laura Medick and Community Development Planner Alex DeWitt about the Alief Linear Forest project’s role in promoting biodiversity and mitigating the heat island effect in Alief. Medick and DeWitt share how this “green corridor” is designed as a lasting legacy for future generations, underscoring the importance of green spaces in building resilient communities.

On October 29, Harris County Commissioners Court approved an additional $3.7 million for the County’s Apprenticeship Advantage program. This additional funding will help connect over 1,500 people with paid training for high-paying union jobs.

November marks the beginning of the holiday season. No matter whether you want to spend time with your loved ones, reflect on what you’re thankful for, eat great food, or all of the above, Precinct 4 is hosting an activity for you. Grab your friends and family and visit a community center near you this November!

Diwali, known as the "Festival of Lights," is a major festival that is recognized worldwide. Celebrated by over a billion people worldwide, and over 100,000 Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs in Houston, the holiday symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones has reappointed Debra Blacklock-Sloan to the Harris County African American Cultural Heritage Commission. She is a fifth-generation Texan and native Houstonian and is a self-employed historical researcher and professional genealogist with 25 years of experience.

New investment strengthens Harris County’s leadership in workforce development, expanding life-changing opportunities for residents

When Meagan Blackwell, a Community Engagement Coordinator (CEC) for Precinct 4, first met Commissioner Lesley Briones at a groundbreaking ceremony for a drainage project, she heard the words that would forever shape her perspective on public service at the Precinct.

After months of advocacy led by Commissioner Lesley Briones, Harris County’s first-ever fireworks sales season for the Diwali holiday kicks off on October 25. This moment is a milestone for the region’s South Asian community and a marker of progress in Harris County’s efforts to celebrate its diverse communities.

Teenagers and young adults can now access free health services at the Baylor College of Medicine’s Teen Health Clinic at Precinct 4’s Bayland Community Center.

In September, Harris County Commissioner Lesley Briones and her colleagues made a significant step forward in supporting survivors of domestic violence by approving the 2025 budget, which includes an ongoing commitment of $1.5 million per year to the Domestic Violence Assistance Fund (DVAF).

Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones and the Baylor College of Medicine hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony in celebration of the new, free Teen Health Clinic at Bayland Community Center, located in the southwest region of Precinct 4. This collaboration will expand access to world-class Texas Medical Center-quality preventative care for underserved youth ages 13 to 24.

​Commissioner Lesley Briones has appointed Dr. Jody S. Lee and Rufi Natarajan to the Houston Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) #1 (St. George’s Place).

Whether you want to trick-or-treat, compete in a costume contest, or come to a potluck, Precinct 4 is here to ensure you have a ghoulishly good time. So, grab your costume, some treats, and your family and visit one of the events below to celebrate Halloween with your community.

Najat Elsayed has been helping everyone she could since she was a child. In middle school, she tried to find ways to send supplies and resources to people in war zones. In high school, she fundraised and crowdsourced supplies for a family in need, often using her own funds and resources to try and give the children normal childhood experiences.

Harris County Precinct 4 has been awarded an $11.3 million grant from the United States Department of the Interior for its Burnett Bayland Park Improvements Project, marking a major milestone in revitalizing this vital community space

Every year, the County must approve a budget to fund all County operations – from roads and bridges to law enforcement and affordable housing. This year, Commissioners Court approved a $2.67 billion budget, which affects everyone who lives, works, and visits Harris County. The budget is funded primarily by Harris County residents’ property taxes.

Commissioner Briones’ measure to allow the sale of fireworks for Diwali, in partnership with community organizations and the Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office, passed with 4 votes. The Diwali fireworks season will include a public safety educational initiative and will be subject to Commissioners Court’s annual authorization.

Commissioners Court adopted a $2.67 billion budget that addresses Harris County’s growing needs with important investments in infrastructure, courts and law enforcement, public health, stable housing, and government operations.

Every year, in mid-September, it is common to encounter advertisements, products, and activities dedicated to Hispanic Heritage Month. But do you know how this celebration began in the United States?

Cada año, a mediados de septiembre, es normal encontrarse con anuncios, productos y actividades dedicadas al Mes de la Herencia Hispana. Pero ¿conoces la razón y el origen de esta celebración en Estados Unidos?

Ever wonder how you get the services you need? This past Tuesday, Sept. 10, Harris County Commissioners decided on a budget for next year that they’ll be voting to approve on September 19.

With a focus on public safety and strengthening our infrastructure, Commissioner Lesley Briones voted to advance a general fund budget for fiscal year (FY) 2025 that will address the critical needs of Harris County residents.

After completing their 2022 school safety recommendations the Commission was dormant until reconvened by Commissioner Briones in 2024. With the new bylaws approved by Commissioners Court on August 27, the Commission is officially a permanent, standing body to better deliver progress on recommendations that enhance safety in schools.

In a unanimous vote Tuesday, Harris County Commissioners Court approved a plan by Commissioner Lesley Briones to strengthen and expand the Harris County Safe School Commission (SSC).

Commissioner Lesley Briones has appointed Dr. Katherine Bacon to the Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD Board of Trustees, Position 4, for a term ending August 27, 2026.

Commissioner Lesley Briones has appointed one individual and recommended two others to the TIRZ 20 Board. TIRZ 20, located in Southwest Houston between Alief and Bellaire, works to address mobility deficiencies in the area and provides resources for the redevelopment of the Sharpstown Mall and Bellaire/Fondren commercial corridors.

Harris County Precinct 4 is working with local partners such as the Common Market and the Houston Food Bank to help get food to those who need it most. Harris County Public Health’s Connect program also assists eligible families sign up for federal, state, and local benefits, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Throughout Precinct 4, there are also dozens of organizations and programs dedicated to serving the community by providing free food and resources.

Dive into Devon Carvajal’s story and see how she went from working at Mary Jo Peckham Aquatic & Fitness Center as a lifeguard at 17 years old, to becoming its manager!

On August 6, Commissioners Court unanimously approved to move forward with implementing Commissioner Briones’s court resources package. This critical investment, developed by Commissioner Briones, will target points in the life cycle of a case that are delayed by several factors, such as defendants missing their court cases, mental health or competency case challenges, and a lack of cohesive management systems and practices within the courts.

Harris County Commissioners Court unanimously approved a plan spearheaded by Commissioner Lesley Briones that will make critical investments in Harris County’s District Criminal Courts to advance the quality and efficiency of justice.

Over 2 million residents in Harris County lost power, leaving residents without air conditioning or refrigeration for days. As soon as it was safe, Precinct 4 teams mobilized to clear debris from roadways and streets and provided critical resources and services to constituents.

A lifelong Houstonian, Jeffrey Louis doesn’t know if he would have made it to the world stage if it were not for growing up in Alief — located in the heart of Harris County Precinct 4.

Saulnier has been Harris County Precinct 4’s jill-of-all-trades for 25 years. Her day-to-day tasks include everything from payroll and purchasing, to helping improve Precinct 4’s parks by overseeing contracts with sports associations, suggesting new fixtures, and helping the public make reservations.

Commissioner Lesley Briones has appointed Charmaine LeBlanc​ to the Harris County Animal Shelter Advisory Committee. ​

Kevin Nguyen (He/They) is a first-generation, Vietnamese-American Texan who was raised Catholic by two immigrant parents.

In the wake of Hurricane Beryl, communities across Precinct 4 have been hit hard, and hundreds of thousands of people are still without power. On Wednesday, Commissioner Lesley Briones and the Precinct 4 team served nearly 2,000 families at our two distribution sites. We are continuing to activate distribution sites across Precinct 4 and will be expanding the resources offered in the coming days.

Fireworks are an Independence Day staple we all love! Yet, it is best to leave these displays to the professionals, and as a reminder, it is illegal to set off fireworks within city limits throughout Texas. Instead, I invite you to watch your city- and community-sponsored fireworks displays; Houston, Tomball, Katy, and others will have fireworks celebrations.

Harris County was awarded the most National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Awards out of any county in Texas for 28 outstanding programs and services it offers to its more than 4.7 million residents.

Kaper is an experienced criminal defense attorney with more than ten years of representing individuals in federal and state court.

Commissioner Lesley Briones has appointed Vladimir Naranjo, PE to the Harris County Industrial Development Corporation Board, which acts as one of the County’s levers for promoting growth and development. ​

Mike Conner, superintendent of the Trailblazers and Trades team for Harris County Precinct 4, has always enjoyed the outdoors.

Juneteenth serves as a powerful reminder that while we have made significant progress, we must still address the historic and systemic inequities that exist today. At Precinct 4 and throughout Harris County, we are committed to championing equitable policies and initiatives to advance opportunity and justice for all people. Here are a few examples of our work.

Harris County Commissioners approved proposals to continue, strengthen, and expand the Holistic Assistance Response Team (HART) program. These policies will support our county’s mobile crisis responders and protect HART, ensure its integrity, and establish clear evaluation criteria and oversight.

For nearly 250 years, members of our Armed Forces have laid down their lives in service of the United States of America, protecting our nation and fighting for the idea that all people are created equal.

$6.3 million project will improve flood resilience for communities impacted by Hurricane Harvey

Harris County Commissioner Lesley Briones, in collaboration with the Houston Bar Association (HBA), the Harris County State District Courts, and the Office of the County Engineer held a ribbon cutting ceremony this week to commemorate a new lactation pod at the Harris County Civil Courthouse.

With a unanimous vote, the Harris County Commissioners Court approved Commissioner Lesley Briones' appointment of Adrian Ozuna to the Housing Finance Corporation.

$6.2 million ARPA investment aims to reduce the harmful developmental impacts of childhood trauma by increasing access to early intervention

Pride Houston 365 defines the Ally Grand Marshal as a person who has demonstrated outstanding accomplishments and contributions to the Houston LGBTQIA+ community.

Neighborhood severely impacted by Hurricane Harvey gets $13.5 million in infrastructure upgrades to mitigate flooding

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we at Harris County Precinct 4 are highlighting organizations throughout the County and the U.S. that exist to help those living with one or more mental health conditions. Whether you or someone you know is facing challenges, these resources stand ready to offer guidance and assistance. Save the resources below, as you never know when you might be able to lend a helping hand or benefit from the services yourself.

Harris County will lead a coalition of Texas counties to expand affordable, reliable energy

After a successful inaugural year, round 2 of landmark infrastructure partnership initiative launches

Commissioner Lesley Briones is thrilled to announce the appointment of Aisha Dennis to the Harris County Public Defender’s Board.

Dozens of colorful fish lie in wait for another cast of a fishing line. Anglers twist their bodies left and right as they try hook one of the many fish at Mary Jo Peckham Park. One of the anglers cheers as their hook snags a brightly colored fish. He quickly reels it in, and it doesn’t put up a fight. The student unhooks it and holds up the lime green plastic fish.

Commissioner Lesley Briones, in partnership with the City of Houston and the Houston Police Department (HPD), highlighted the positive impacts of the new gates within the Bissonnet Corridor.

Commissioner Lesley Briones surprised Emma Cardenas, the first winner of Harris County Precinct 4’s bus design contest, “From Palette to Pavement: Student Art on Precinct 4 Buses!”

Whether your family loves to explore birds, fishing, and nature in the outdoors or prefers crafting and watching afternoon movies inside, Harris County Precinct 4 has activities for kids of all ages and interests.

Blacklock-Sloan's Black teachers instilled a love for history in her at an early age, stoking a passion to document the lost stories and history of Black Americans’ triumphs and struggles.

New parents visiting court or heading back to work at Harris County will soon have three new areas to privately pump and feed their children, thanks to a donation approved by Harris County commissioners during their Feb. 27 meeting.

Commissioner Briones Joins Commissioner Garcia on Regional Planning Board

Prior to the early 1990s, not even congregation members knew the 150-year history of McGee Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. When Alvin Wright started his research into the history at the behest of the church, few expected what he found.

Commissioner Lesley Briones has appointed Bryan Sanchez, a seasoned executive with 20-years of experience in the real estate investment management industry, to the Harris County Finance Corporation.

Amid the aromatic symphony of spices, simmering pots of lamb curry, and the movement of his mother’s and aunt’s hands to transform mounds of dough into crisp kingklip empanadas, chef Casey Castro’s passion for food flourished.

Upon taking office, Commissioner Lesley Briones launched a 12-stop listening tour to hear directly from Precinct 4 constituents. Hundreds of residents attended to meet the Commissioner and provide constructive feedback about the issues most important to their communities.

In addition to delivering critical county services, Commissioner Briones is focused on building a diverse coalition of leadership in Harris County. This means working toward an equitable distribution of resources and empowering communities to have a seat at the table.

Every resident in Harris County deserves access to quality education, housing, and job opportunities.

Harris County Precinct 4 is empowering communities to shape the future of their parks, green spaces, and infrastructure. Through its first-ever planning division, Precinct 4 is bringing together community planners and residents to develop plans that will revitalize signature green spaces, increase mobility and connectivity, and enhance the quality of life in its communities.

Apart from maintaining over 1,600 miles of roads and over 14,000 acres of green space, Harris County Precinct 4 worked to preserve and create infrastructure to support and connect communities

Public safety is, and will remain, the top priority for Harris County Precinct 4. As a mother of three young daughters, a former judge, and someone who has been a victim, Commissioner Briones believes in investing in all parts of the justice system.

This Black History Month — and throughout the year — we recognize that while systemic and racial injustices have disproportionately affected the lives of Black Americans, we honor the triumphs, adversity, and sacrifices they have made throughout history to provide a framework for other social movements to achieve progress.

Houston Ballet’s Lauren Anderson has roots in Harris County Commissioner Precinct 4. She graduated from Lamar High School in 1982 at the age of 17 – one year before joining Houston Ballet’s corps de ballet. Four years after joining the ballet full-time, she earned the title of soloist. Three years later, she became only the second Black female ballerina to ever be promoted to principal, the highest rank a ballerina can earn.

A cohort of the school’s graduate students will serve as interns and receive hands-on experience addressing community issues like homelessness, food insecurity, and eviction, all while bringing a wealth of cutting-edge research to keep Precinct 4 on the cusp of social worker innovation.

Commissioner Lesley Briones launched four advisory committees in May 2023, covering high-priority areas: justice and safety, health, infrastructure, and housing and homelessness. Each committee is comprised of a diverse group of subject matter experts who have diligently worked to compile actionable recommendations to improve Precinct 4, which they presented to Commissioner Briones Jan. 22 and 23.

Residents spoke directly to project consultant and the Precinct 4 team to express concerns about the need for more sidewalks to connect neighborhoods to schools and suggested increasing lanes on narrow roads. Some residents were optimistic about how the anticipated changes from the Katy East Community Plan and Mobility Study will foster greater connectivity in unincorporated Katy.

Naturalize Now, Houston! That’s the message local government and civic partners are sending to 300,000 lawful permanent residents in the region, who are eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship, and haven’t already.

From road and drainage improvements to new sidewalks and trails, Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones is completing work in the Greater Katy area while also looking toward the future.

Funded by federal dollars through the American Rescue Plan Act, the program will bring 140 boxes of fresh, locally sourced produce for distribution at three Precinct 4 community centers biweekly. The program will run throughout 2024 to help address food insecurity.

​​As we all prepare for the upcoming winter weather event, the team at Precinct 4 stands ready to support our community. In addition to our Road & Bridge crews preparing our roads and facilities, we are making arrangements for a warming center at Bayland Community Center (6400 Bissonnet Street).

With the safety of our community and constituents in mind, all Harris County Precinct 4 community centers, senior education centers, fitness centers and education centers will be closed Saturday, Jan. 13 through Tuesday, Jan. 16. This is due to the upcoming threat of extreme winter weather.

​Everything we do at Precinct 4 is grounded in our commitment to serving you and your families. Our mission is to advance opportunity and justice for all. We have prioritized justice and safety, infrastructure, health, education and economic opportunity, and good government.

New $4 million ARPA investment will increase access to justice for all parties in the eviction process

On December 19, Commissioner Lesley Briones proudly appointed Holly Maria Flynn Vilaseca to the Harris County Safe School Commission.

On December 19, Commissioners Court officially appointed Meghan Fairbanks and Diamond Stylz to the Commission.

More than 16 miles of multi-modal mobility enhancements are planned for the Westpark Tollway Corridor under a new partnership between the City of Houston, Harris County, Fort Bend County, and the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO), officials announced Thursday afternoon.

Harris County Commissioner Lesley Briones, City of Houston Council Member Edward Pollard, St. George Place Redevelopment Authority/Tax Increment Investment Zone 1, and community partners celebrated the completion of a sidewalk project crucial to hike-and-bike mobility in a dense portion of southwest Houston.

Harris County Commissioner Lesley Briones in partnership with Shell and the Energy Corridor District officially opened the gathering space and container art mural at Energy Hill at Terry Hershey Park.

Over a dozen small-business owners converged Dec. 8 at Harris County Precinct 4’s Tracy Gee Community Center to get expert advice and resources to help grow their businesses.

Nandini Seth has extensive experience in executing and managing large urban planning projects for various communities in the United States. In her role with Precinct 4, she works closely with the Harris County Engineering Department, the consulting community, constituents, and state legislatures amongst other stakeholders.

Dr. Andrew Juan brings 10 years of academic and practical experience in flood mitigation.

Workshop launches the multiple community engagement meetings to reimagine Bayland Park

Small Business Saturday, the day after Black Friday, urges shoppers to patronize local businesses for holiday gift-buying. Commissioner Briones is taking that day a step further and – in a commitment to supporting local small businesses year-round – is connecting business owners and entrepreneurs to valuable resources.

Harris County Commissioner Lesley Briones and her newly launched nonprofit, Precinct 4 Forward partnered with local businesses to distribute Thanksgiving meals to underserved and food insecure families.

Our three main goals for the evening were to experience the neighborhood from the perspective of a pedestrian, educate our partners and stakeholders on key concepts of nighttime design such as lighting, safety and placemaking, and encourage stakeholder interest in urban design and nocturnal issues.

5th Gun Buyback Event Continued County-City Partnership to Prevent Accidental Shootings, Theft of Unused Firearms, and Firearm-related Deaths

If you're looking for help -- or looking to help for Thanksgiving -- here's a list of resources that are putting food on the table:

Precinct 4 remains committed to providing the highest level of service – with expanded programming options – to our constituents. To advance that commitment, we are proud to announce nine new and returning fitness instructors will be leading classes at all community centers.

Freed Park – including community center, greenspace, and community garden – transitions to Harris County Precinct 4 Parks

New facilities and expanded resources are coming for Harris County’s most vulnerable residents after voters overwhelmingly approved the $2.5 billion Harris Health bond on November 7, 2023.

This Veterans Day, we extend our deepest gratitude to every one of the men and women for their unwavering service and devotion to preserving the liberties we cherish. It’s because of their selflessness that our democracy is preserved, and as civilians, we owe them our resolute support and utmost appreciation.

Commissioner Briones Partners with Harris County Sheriff’s Office and City of Houston to Continue Gun Buyback Program. Part of City-County Efforts to Prevent Accidental Shootings, Theft of Unused Firearms, and Firearm-related Deaths 

Harris County Precinct 4 is the proud workplace for 17 veterans, who served our country in the U.S. armed forces and continue to serve residents every day.

Months after Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council distributed new round of $4.7 million, community-based organizations report on the fund’s lifesaving impact

Rixi Castillo was appointed by Commissioner Briones to the Harris County Essential Workers Board, with a unanimous vote from the Harris County Commissioners Court.

Harris County Commissioners Court voted today to name Diana Ramirez the permanent County Administrator. She has been serving as Interim County Administrator since Administrator Dave Berry’s resignation.

Harris County Commissioner Lesley Briones led an investment of $1,091,100 in federal American Rescue Plan Funding (ARPA) to reduce the backlog of eviction appeals cases in Harris County. This measure was passed today with a unanimous vote, and will cover the cost of an associate judge and coordinator to staff an eviction appeal docket through 2026.

Commissioner Lesley Briones voted to approve the Apprenticeship Advantage Initiative because the program has the potential to strengthen the regional workforce and help keep Harris County a global competitor.

Morales brings her love of sports and her extensive labor and advocacy background to the 13-member board of directors

Right now, the reality is domestic violence is a pervasive issue in every community — in the United States, one in three women and one in four men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. We stand in solidarity with survivors facing the difficult journey towards healing. You are not alone.

Artists reflect on how their culture has influenced their work in the internationally diverse precinct

Our new budget invests a total of $1.5 billion in justice and safety — a $170 million increase over last year — to support law enforcement, provide our courts with the necessary resources to run effectively, and ensure a fairer criminal justice system. .

First of several heritage events to be held from September 15 - October 15

Funding from Harris County Precinct 4 will help the Houston Parks Board fill a gap between two of the city’s largest and most popular parks.

32 projects across Precinct 4 will move forward because of Places 4 People

The Latino communities across Harris County Precinct 4 are incredibly diverse. From the Panamanian neighborhoods in Brays Oaks and Mission Bend; to the thriving Columbian, Afro-Latino, and Garifuna communities in Alief; to the Mexican and Salvadoran communities in Gulfton; to our Venezuelan neighbors in Cypress and Katy; we are blessed with a rich tapestry of cultures that rivals any major city in the country.

The office of Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones announced the dates and locations for four upcoming listening sessions as part of its 2023 Listening Tour.

Commissioner Lesley Briones spearheaded the creation of the history-making commission in June to amplify the voices of the LGBTQIA+ community and to promote equality. The Commission will provide actionable recommendations to improve economic, social, health, and safety outcomes for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Commissioner Lesley Briones has appointed Afsheen Davis to the Harris Health Board and Luis Ruiz to the Harris County Public Defender Board.

As the summer winds down, families have turned to Commissioner Lesley Briones and Precinct 4 to help prepare their children to return to school. Between multi-million-dollar investments in childcare and a campaign to distribute free Chromebooks to students, Commissioner Briones said it is “absolutely essential” to ensure that all children are set up to succeed.

When Hurricane Harvey struck Texas in August of 2017, Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones was very pregnant with her youngest daughter.
During a June 9 groundbreaking for a $20.2 million drainage improvement project in the Bear Creek Village subdivision, near the Addicks Reservoir, Commissioner Briones described the stress of flooding as a potential medical emergency.

In a unanimous vote Tuesday, Harris County Commissioners approved the creation of Precinct4Forward, a nonprofit organization that will bring community partners together to improve the quality of life of Harris County Precinct 4’s 1.2 million residents.

This 225-acre park in Hockley features multiple playgrounds, miles of trails, community pavilions, athletic fields, a train ride and a splash pad.

Harris County Precinct 4 is seeking input for three flood mitigation projects using Community Development Block Grant - Mitigation (CDBG-MIT) funds from the Texas General Land Office and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Nestled in the greenery of West Houston’s Addicks Reservoir, the wildlife habitat at Precinct 4’s Bear Creek Pioneers Park is a prime destination for families and bird lovers alike.

July is National Park and Recreation Month and residents took full advantage of the quality parks in Harris County Precinct 4 by sharing their adventures on social media. From petting zoo trips to family bike rides, park visitors posted photos while enjoying our amenities and we’ve compiled some of our favorites! 

With the passage of HB 3474 in the 88th Texas Legislature, Harris County will soon have a new Court, Probate Court No. 5, on September 1, 2023.

During their July 18 meeting, Harris County commissioners discussed a report from the Harris County Women’s Commission outlining its future goals and issued new directives for the nine-member group.

Lesley Briones has only been the Harris County Precinct 4 commissioner for seven months but has hit the ground running, trying to make a difference.

Whether you want to walk on tree-shaded nature trails, cool off in the water, view exotic animals, or play with your pup, there is a place for everyone to have fun in Precinct 4 during National Parks and Recreation Month.

"The Court’s decision to ban race-conscious admissions is a major erosion of the critical progress we have made to address systemic barriers faced by students of color. As a former teacher, I have witnessed how diversity of thought and perspectives fostered a collaborative learning environment for all students. We must continue to promote access to equal opportunity and diversity in higher education.”

In a unanimous vote on June 27, Harris County commissioners approved $1.7 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funding to enhance the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) TeleDeputy Unit.

Harris County Commissioner Lesley Briones (Precinct 4) joined Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee to announce possible action against Patriot Title.

A new program passed unanimously on Tuesday afternoon by Harris County Commissioners could change how you file police reports with the sheriff's office.

Commissioner Lesley Briones has appointed Porscha Natasha Brown to the Managed Assigned Counsel ​board. Brown has been a Public Defender since 2016, and currently works as an Assistant Public Defender in Harris County.

Today marks one year since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, stripping women of their fundamental right to bodily autonomy. This decision turned back the clock half a century. It saddens and angers me that my three young daughters are growing up with fewer rights than their grandmothers.

As we mark 158 years since enslaved Black Texans learned of their freedom, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, community members of one of Texas’ oldest freedom colonies reflected on their own history, which began even before June 19, 1865.

At the over 130-year-old Riceville Mount Olive Baptist Church in Southwest Houston, longtime Riceville residents shared their stories.

Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones was joined by the Harris County Flood Control District, Harris County Engineering Department, and Harris County Utility District No. 6 in a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the next step in improving street drainage and mitigating flood risks for the Bear Creek Village community.
During Hurricane Harvey, approximately 1,400 homes — nearly 60% of single-family residences — flooded in the subdivision.

In a 4-1 vote, Harris County Commissioners approved the creation of the County’s first LGBTQIA+ Commission.
Commissioner Lesley Briones introduced the motion, calling it an important step toward amplifying the voices of the LGBTQIA+ community and promoting equality in Harris County.

Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones, in partnership with Mayor Sylvester Turner, City of Houston District J Council Member Edward Pollard, the Gulfton Management District, the Houston Dynamo FC, the Houston Dash, and the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, opened two new soccer pitches at Burnett Bayland Park in Gulfton.
The soccer pitch installation marks the first of multiple investments into Burnett Bayland Park. Precinct 4 will soon launch a master plan for the Park, which will reinvigorate the space for the Gulfton community.

Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones announced a study to re-envision the Westpark Tollway, from the Beltway 8 west to the Harris County-Fort Bend County line to help keep pace with growth in the fastest growing region in Texas, expand economic opportunities, and improve quality of life for residents.
Receiving unanimous support from Commissioners Court, the County will move forward with a search for qualified engineering firms to lead the study which will explore potential options to increase mobility capacity and transportation solutions.

In a unanimous vote, Harris County Commissioners Court made history as it approved Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones’ nominee, Dr. Cody Pyke (she/they), to the Harris Health System Board of Trustees. Dr. Pyke is the first openly transgender and nonbinary individual to serve on the nine-member board, which oversees a $2.3 billion, fully integrated healthcare system that includes community health centers, same-day clinics, multi-specialty clinic locations, a dental center and dialysis center, mobile health units and two full-service hospitals in Harris County.

Commissioner Briones has appointed Alice Lee to both the Harris County Redevelopment Authority and the Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone 24 boards. Lee, the current Chief of Staff for Commissioner Briones, brings over 30 years of experience in public service.

Growing up as the oldest of three children, I saw how much my own mom, a public-school teacher who often worked multiple jobs, sacrificed for us to have every possible opportunity. But nothing truly prepares you for motherhood, for that moment when you see your first child for the first time and for every day that follows – such transcendent love and purpose coupled with tremendous responsibility and concern.

I want to raise my three daughters in a world where they feel safe, respected, and empowered to become the very best version of themselves. Every mother deserves to live in that world, and every child deserves that opportunity.