Harris County honors retiring air-quality director Dr. Latrice Babin for leadership

Harris County Commissioners Court on March 31 recognized Dr. Latrice Babin, the county's air-quality director, for 31 years of service and leadership that court members said strengthened public health protections.

The presiding official read a resolution noting Babin’s role in expanding the county’s community air monitoring program, oversight of concrete batch plants and work during the ITC industrial disaster. “You’ve led the transformation of that department,” the presiding official said while presenting the resolution. Kim Williams, Harris County’s purchasing agent, also joined the remarks to acknowledge county staff and the day’s honorees.

Miles Keogh, executive director of the National Association of Clean Air Agencies, dialed in to applaud Babin’s national contributions, saying Harris County “has been a member and leader in our association” and that Babin strengthened agencies nationwide through her work on air toxics and mobile monitoring. “She’s been a champion in our community for proactive emergency preparedness,” Keogh said.

Dr. Babin thanked county leadership, staff and her family, noting the support she received during her tenure and acknowledging a newly appointed administrator who will lead the department next. Family members offered brief tributes in the chamber, and court members posed for a photo with staff and the honoree after the resolution passed.

The recognition was part of a routine resolutions block; the court adjourned after completing the scheduled recognitions and votes.