Government

The Harris County Commissioners Court met on June 12 at 1001 Preston Street in downtown Houston to address several major policy and community matters, including the extension of Diwali fireworks sales, the timeline for a newly adopted minimum wage policy for contract workers, and community concerns over disc golf course preservation.

Diwali Fireworks Approved for Five More Years

The court unanimously approved a five-year extension allowing the sale of fireworks during Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights, in unincorporated areas of Harris County. Originally passed for a one-year pilot in 2024, the policy will now remain in effect through December 2030, with annual reviews conducted by the Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office.

Commissioner Lesley Briones, who championed the initiative, emphasized the importance of inclusivity: “This is about respect, inclusion, celebration, and making sure future generations are able to celebrate safely.”

Fire Marshal Lori Christensen confirmed that there were no incidents reported during the 2024 Diwali season and noted strong collaboration with local fire and police departments. “It was successful and safe,” Christensen said. The resolution also includes a stipulation that the court retains the authority to revoke or modify the policy if needed.

Community members from across the county, including seniors, business owners, and local media figures, spoke in favor of the policy during the public comment period. Many praised the court for recognizing Diwali as a cultural and economic touchstone.

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Minimum Wage Policy Implementation Pushed to October 2025

In another significant action, the court voted to delay implementation of a new minimum wage policy for county contractors until October 1, 2025. Originally scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025, the policy ensures that contract workers earn at least $21.65 per hour.

While the policy itself remains unchanged, Commissioner Briones introduced the timeline adjustment to give departments and contractors time to prepare and align the change with the county’s fiscal year. “This is not a rollback. We’re doubling down on the importance of this policy and executing it well,” she said.

Commissioner Rodney Ellis, who co-authored the original proposal, reiterated his support and expressed cautious optimism. “We have waited such a long time for a policy like this,” he said. “We’re proud of it, and we will implement it right.”

Dozens of union leaders, plumbers, electricians, and small business owners testified in support of the policy and against proposed carveouts for certain civil construction projects. Many speakers described the wage hike as essential for stability amid rising costs of living. “Living wages are not a luxury — they are a necessity,” said Jennifer Hernandez of the painters union.

The Houston Contractors Association requested the delay, citing concerns about contractor preparedness and budget impacts. Briones noted that although the letter did not explicitly affirm support for the policy, oral confirmations from contractor representatives suggested willingness to collaborate moving forward.

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Disc Golf Advocates Push Back on Study for New Ball Fields

The court also heard passionate public testimony opposing a $600,000 feasibility study for replacing the Agnes Moffitt disc golf course in the Timber Oaks area with baseball fields. Longtime players and sport advocates argued that the course has historical significance and provides equitable recreation access for all ages and income levels.

“We’ve supported this course voluntarily for decades,” said Andi Young, a founding member of the Houston Disc Society. “Disc golf is never a priority in planning. This project would erase a thriving recreational community.”

Commissioners did not take final action on the study during the session.

Public Voices: Evictions, Cemeteries, Fireworks, and Law Enforcement

The public comment period featured emotional testimonies from residents facing eviction, homelessness, and medical hardships. Angela Hawkins, a Precinct 1 resident, asked the court to bolster emergency rental aid through the Community Prosperity Program: “Every delay pushes more of us toward eviction.” In response, Commissioner Rodney Ellis later reaffirmed the court’s commitment to using remaining federal funds to support housing, food, and homelessness services. “Nearly a third of Harris County residents are working poor… the least we can do is spend this money that was meant for them,” Ellis said.

Lisa Jenkins, a longtime cemetery preservation advocate, called for continued support to restore Evergreen Cemetery during Juneteenth month. Commissioner Ellis acknowledged the importance of the work, noting, “The older I get, the more I worry about these cemeteries. We’re going to keep working on them.”

Several residents raised concerns about retaining experienced law enforcement officers amid growing pay disparities. Although officials did not address the comments immediately, Commissioners later highlighted an ongoing countywide compensation and pay equity study. Commissioner Adrian Garcia emphasized that public safety roles must be evaluated in light of their complexity and scale, particularly with major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon.

Additionally, numerous residents advocated for annual approval of Diwali fireworks sales to be extended long term. Their request was granted, as the court approved a five-year extension through 2030 with annual safety reviews.

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What’s Next

• The Diwali fireworks authorization is in effect through December 2030, with annual reviews.
• The contractor minimum wage policy will take effect October 1, 2025, pending further planning and outreach.
• The court will continue discussions on disc golf preservation and recreational land use.
• Updates on indigent defense funding, pay equity, and jail maintenance are expected at future meetings.

For more updates on Harris County government, stay tuned with My Neighborhood News.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.