Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, State Sen. Borris Miles and State Rep. Harold Dutton recently paid tribute to the legacy of late Commissioner El Franco Lee during the centennial Black History Month, recognizing the El Franco Lee Statue at the Harris County Jury Plaza and unveiling a sign naming part of U.S. 59 after the late Precinct 1 Commissioner.

“In this 100th year of celebrating Black History Month, we gather to honor a leader whose life shaped Harris County,” said current Precinct 1 Commissioner Ellis, who succeeded Commissioner Lee in 2017. “To me, he was a friend and a mentor. I turned to him when I faced major decisions. His counsel was grounded in experience and in love for this community.”

“This plaza is just the most breathtaking thing I’ve ever seen in my life. Having my Dad honored in this way, I just want the public to be able to enjoy it and be aware of it. And may it be a staple in Downtown Houston,” said El Franco Lee II, the son of Commissioner Lee.

Sen. Miles, who helped Rep. Dutton pass the bill to rename a portion of U.S.

59, said Commissioner Lee was one of our most prolific leaders.

“El Franco is one of our greats,” Sen. Miles said. “He was a giant among men, and this memorial highway will always remind us of El Franco Lee’s presence.”

Rep. Dutton called the event a “wonderful occasion” for his best friend.

“Thanks to my commissioner and everyone who has been a part of this because we couldn’t have done this for a better public servant and a better friend,” Rep. Dutton said.

Commissioner Lee—who served more than 30 years in office before passing away on Jan. 3, 2016—was recognized for championing senior services, youth programming, and community-based health initiatives.

Commissioner Lee improved the lives of thousands of youths by creating the Harris County Street Olympics. He also established year-round youth programming at three Precinct One community centers, and comprehensive senior programs at seven community centers.

El Franco Lee fought for access to health care, including mental health treatment, and reforms that strengthened our justice system, such as supporting the creation of the Harris County Public Defender’s Office.

“He built the relationships necessary to move policy and deliver results for Precinct One,” Ellis said. “El Franco was a voice for the marginalized.”