City Hall Bulletin: Planning Deadlines, Infrastructure Repairs, and Public Health Advisories

Official Notices and Public Service Announcements for February 23, 2026

As the final week of February begins, the City of Houston has issued several updates regarding municipal planning, public health initiatives, and ongoing neighborhood infrastructure improvements. Residents are encouraged to review these official notices to ensure compliance with new ordinances and to stay informed on local development cycles.

Houston Planning Commission Submittal Deadline

The Planning and Development Department has designated Monday, February 23, 2026, as a critical submittal date for the upcoming Planning Commission agenda cycle. This deadline applies to all subdivision and development plats requiring commission review. Applicants must submit all required documentation by the close of business to be considered for the March hearing dates. This cycle is essential for maintaining the city's growth and ensuring that new developments meet the current Chapter 42 Code of Ordinances.

Public Health: American Heart Month and Dental Health Observances

The Houston Health Department, in coordination with Harris County Public Health, continues its focus on preventive care throughout February. Residents are reminded that February is American Heart Month and National Children’s Dental Health Month. Official advisories emphasize the following:

• Heart Health: Free blood pressure screenings are available at various multi-service centers to combat the high rate of cardiovascular disease in the region.
• Pediatric Dental Care: The city is promoting the "Tiny Teeth, Big Futures" initiative, urging parents to schedule early oral care appointments to prevent chronic tooth decay in children.
• West Nile Virus Warning: Although it is early in the season, the Mosquito and Vector Control Division has already confirmed positive West Nile virus samples in the 77041 and 77032 ZIP codes, prompting a call for residents to drain standing water and use repellent.

Neighborhood Infrastructure: Outfall Repairs

Houston Public Works is actively managing outfall repair projects in the Westwood and Willow Meadows areas. These repairs, which began earlier this month, are designed to protect drainage infrastructure and mitigate future flooding risks. Residents at 10602 Bassoon Drive and 10130 Willowgrove Drive may notice heavy equipment and crews as part of these critical stability improvements. Traffic delays in these residential pockets are expected through the end of the month.

New Donation Box Ordinance Enforcement

Beginning this year, the City of Houston has implemented an updated Donation Box Ordinance. All donation boxes must now display an official City of Houston decal to confirm registration and compliance. This measure aims to reduce illegal dumping and ensure that the owners of these facilities are held accountable for neighborhood maintenance. Boxes found without the official decal may be subject to removal or fines.

2026 Community Needs Survey

The Housing and Community Development Department is currently accepting responses for the 2026 Community Needs Survey. The feedback gathered will directly influence the 2026 Action Plan required by HUD, guiding the investment of federal funds into housing affordability and essential public services. The survey remains open to all residents in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese.