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Community Development Corporation

McKinney CDC Marks 30 Years, Hears Big Grants, Then Braces For More Drama Next Month

The McKinney Community Development Corporation met April 23, 2026, with a mix of anniversary celebration, board updates and several major grant requests that affect housing, small business space, tourism and east side development. The meeting touched residents citywide, from families looking for affordable homes to downtown visitors, farmers market shoppers and people who use McKinney’s parks and trails.

30 Years Of CDC Support

The board spent part of the morning looking back at 30 years of MCDC, which started in 1996 after voters backed a half-cent sales tax. Staff said the group has approved about $330 million in projects since then. The anniversary spotlight centered on how CDC money has helped build housing, parks, entertainment and east side revitalization, while also drawing outside dollars into McKinney from visitors who spend money here.

Board And Commission Applications Open

City Secretary Empress Drane reminded the board that applications are open for 2026 board and commission seats. The deadline is June 19, with interviews set for July and appointments planned for Aug. 25. The update matters for residents who want a say in city decisions, since about 200 volunteers serve on city boards and help shape local policy.

Chestnut Square Highlights Its CDC Partnership

Chestnut Square used its spotlight to show how CDC grants helped preserve its historic campus and support the farmers market. Leaders said MCDC has awarded about $2.5 million to the organization over the years, including help with the chapel move, the Bevel House and recent porch repairs. Staff said the market brings in hundreds of thousands of weekly visitors and supports more than 100 vendors, keeping the site busy and tied to local spending.

February Sales Tax Stays Steady

Finance staff reported February revenues of $2.9 million, mostly from sales tax, with total expenses at $1.7 million. The month’s sales tax reflected December shopping activity, and staff said the true year-over-year increase was 3.8%, a bit above budget. Construction was the only category that looked down at first, but staff said that was tied to an audit and the trend was actually slightly up once that was removed.