Need to catch up on Community Impact’s coverage from last week? Check out six trending stories from the South Houston area from July 27-31.
1. Sugar Land updates green waste collection requirements
Sugar Land City Council approved an amendment to its solid waste contract with Republic Services at a July 21 meeting to update its residential green waste collection requirements.
Residents will now be required to use certified compostable bags for services rather than using clear bags as the city moves to a more local composting facility, Environmental Manager Christian Eubanks said. Residents will still be able to use reusable containers.
Learn more from Editor Aubrey Howell.
2. Katy ISD attendance incentive initiative sees 3 years of growth
Katy ISD's attendance incentive initiative has seen a third consecutive year of growth, officials said.
The Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow Attendance Incentive Initiative update, which was shared with the Katy ISD board of trustees at a July 27 meeting, showed a nearly one percentage-point increase from 94.2% in 2021-22 to 95.2% in 2025-26.
Get the full story by General Assignment Reporter Bradley Dountz.
3. Houston council member aims to lock down on unenclosed cargo loads while driving on city streets, highways
At-large council member Willie Davis has proposed a new amendment to an ordinance to establish local load securement standards for passenger cars and trucks in Houston after several incidents involving unsecured cargo posing a safety hazard to residents were reported or personally experienced.
The ordinance would require motor vehicles and/or any attached trailers to secure loads or cargo with a securement device of "sufficient strength" to prevent their loads from moving, thus preventing the cargo from ending up on the roads and/or highways, per the ordinance.
Continue reading by Editor Cassandra Jenkins.
4. Bellaire begins to prepare for demolition of buildings on Beechnut Street to advance ditch project
Bellaire officials broke ground two months ago on a long-range planning effort for the city's new regional flood mitigation project, known as the Cypress Ditch project. Now, more dirt is being moved as contractors take the first steps toward site demolition.
City Manager Sharon Citino said during a July 20 City Council meeting that contractors for the project have been mobilized to begin preparing the area, infrastructure and facilities along Beechnut Street for demolition, the first step of the project.
Read more by Editor Cassandra Jenkins.
5. New mahjong spot opens in Friendswood
Mahjong For a Cause was founded to support local nonprofits and first responders, with proceeds from event entry fees donated to charity.
The business offers a space for players of all experience levels to participate in lessons for $25, daytime leagues for $99 and open play for $10.
Get the details from General Assignment Reporter Catherine White.
6. New private school opens in League City
The Learning House of League City opened its doors in mid-July, staff said.
The new private school offers education for kindergarteners through second grade with plans to expand up to the eighth grade, according to the school's website.
