The City Council approved new historic landmark designations for five buildings in Houston. These include a former department store, three residences with architectural and historical significance, and an industrial plant from the early 20th century, as stated by FOX26 Houston. 

The Houston City Council recently added new historical landmarks, bringing the total to 307, with 182 now protected. The 1928 Johnston House, with its original Georgian-style design, and the Swift & Company Packing Plant, an important industrial site from the early 1900s, are among the new designations. This decision follows recommendations from the Houston Archaeological and Historical Commission, as reported by Houston Public Media.

A key change in Houston's historic landscape was the reclassification of the garage apartment at 3423 White Oak Dr. from contributing to noncontributing status. In contrast, the Battelstein Building, a former department store founded in 1924 by Philip "Pop" Battelstein, received a "landmark" designation, offering limited protection from demolition or changes but still recognizing its cultural importance. Houston’s Historic Preservation Ordinance governs how landmarks are maintained and altered, with "protected landmark" status providing stronger safeguards. These designations were discussed at a hearing on November 20, according to FOX26 Houston.