Houston City Bulletin: Official Notices and Community Updates for February 18, 2026
Public Safety: South Gessner Divisional PIP Meeting
The Houston Police Department invites residents to the South Gessner Divisional Positive Interaction Program (PIP) meeting scheduled for this evening, Wednesday, February 18, 2026. The session will begin at 6:30 PM at the South Gessner Police Station, located at 8605 Westplace Drive. This month’s meeting features an informative presentation from the HPD Forensic Artist Unit. Attendees will gain insight into how forensic artists utilize specialized sketches and reconstructions to assist in criminal investigations and enhance public safety. Community members are encouraged to attend to stay informed and engage directly with local law enforcement officers.
Civic Engagement: 2026 Community Needs Survey
The City of Houston is actively seeking resident feedback through the 2026 Community Needs Survey. This initiative is designed to gather vital data on housing affordability, neighborhood improvements, and essential community services. Feedback from this survey will directly influence the 2026 Action Plan required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), guiding the distribution of federal funding for local development. The survey is currently available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Residents are urged to participate to ensure their neighborhood priorities are represented in the city's long-term investment strategy.
Infrastructure: Neighborhood Drainage and Outfall Repairs
Houston Public Works has issued official notices to proceed for critical drainage infrastructure repairs in the Westwood and Willow Meadows areas. Crews are currently active at 10602 Bassoon Drive and 10130 Willowgrove Drive. These outfall repairs are part of a targeted effort to reduce localized flooding risks and maintain the integrity of the city’s stormwater systems. Residents may notice construction equipment and personnel in these areas throughout the day; however, major traffic disruptions are not expected at this stage of the project.
Regulatory Compliance: Updated Donation Box Ordinance
As of February 2026, the City of Houston has begun full enforcement of the updated Donation Box Ordinance. All donation drop-off boxes located within city limits must now clearly display an official City of Houston decal. This decal confirms that the box is registered and compliant with city safety and transparency standards. The ordinance aims to reduce illegal dumping and ensure that the operators of these bins are held accountable for the maintenance of their sites. Property owners are advised to verify that any bins on their premises carry the required registration.
Recovery Assistance: Winter Storm Uri Home Repair Program
The City Council has finalized a $33 million allocation to support the 2021 Winter Storm Uri Single Family Home Repair Program. This funding is dedicated to assisting homeowners still facing structural or system damages from the historic 2021 freeze. Eligible residents may apply for reimbursement of up to $10,000 for past repairs or qualify for up to $100,000 in comprehensive home rehabilitation and reconstruction services. The program is currently processing applications through six city-approved vendors to ensure safe and resilient housing for impacted families.
Public Transit: METRO Service Adjustments
The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) reminds commuters that several service adjustments for February 2026 remain in effect. These include schedule modifications for high-traffic bus routes, including the 82 Westheimer and 56 Airline/Montrose lines. These changes are intended to improve reliability and transit frequency across the urban core. Commuters are encouraged to check updated digital schedules before beginning their morning or evening travels.