Harris County, Texas has launched a legal battle against a local concrete company over alleged environmental violations that threaten public health and safety. On April 4, 2025, Harris County filed a complaint in the District Court of Harris County against HM South Texas Concrete, LLC. The county accuses the company of operating its cement production facility in violation of several environmental laws, including the Texas Water Code and the Texas Clean Air Act.
The lawsuit claims that HM South Texas Concrete has been discharging wastewater without proper authorization and failing to maintain adequate dust control measures at its facility located on Schurmier Road in Houston. According to Harris County's petition, investigators from the Harris County Pollution Control Services Department (HCPCSD) have documented numerous violations during inspections conducted between May 2020 and November 2024. These include unauthorized emissions of air contaminants, improper waste disposal practices, and failure to comply with permit conditions. "The purpose of these regulations is to safeguard the state's air resources from pollution," states the complaint.
Harris County is seeking both monetary and non-monetary relief from the court. The county requests civil penalties ranging from $250,000 to $1 million for each day of continued violation, as well as injunctive relief to prevent further environmental harm. Additionally, Harris County seeks reimbursement for attorney’s fees and investigative costs incurred during this proceeding. The county argues that immediate action is necessary to protect public health and prevent further damage to natural resources.
The legal team representing Harris County includes Christian D. Menefee as the lead attorney, supported by Jonathan G.C. Fombonne and other members of the Environmental Division at the Harris County Attorney’s Office. The case has been assigned Case ID 2025-23580 in the 125th Judicial District Court under Judge Adiliani Solis.