Economic Development Corporation

Appointments Open, Surveys Launch, Sports Draw Crowds As McKinney EDC Tracks Money And Momentum

The McKinney Economic Development Corporation met April 21, 2026, with updates that touched city boards, public surveys, tourism events, marketing and sales tax. The discussion centered on how residents can get involved, what city efforts are now underway, and where McKinney stands compared with nearby cities on revenue.

Board Seats Open Soon

City Secretary Empress Drane told the board that applications are now open for McKinney boards and commissions, including the EDC. The deadline to apply is June 19, with interviews set for July and council appointments expected in August. About half of the roughly 150 seats across city boards will open up, giving residents a clear path to step into city service.

New Engage McKinney Site Seeks Public Input

City Manager Paul Grimes said the city has launched Engage McKinney, a new online platform where residents can learn about projects and share feedback. The first survey focuses on recycling and waste reduction, and the annual budget survey launched April 21. The site also includes updates on the Roy and Helen Hall Memorial Library renovation and the 2024 bond package, putting more city projects in one place for the public to track.

Novi, Michigan Delegation Set To Visit

Grimes said McKinney will host a delegation from Novi, Michigan, on Thursday as part of a mayor's exchange. The visit is expected to include discussions about management and policy issues. For McKinney, it is another chance to compare how cities handle growth and operations.

Affordable Housing Summit Draws Big Turnout

The city’s affordable housing summit brought in 300 attendees and 27 sponsors, Grimes said. Staff described it as a chance for housing groups and developers to share information about housing options, available technology and barriers that can slow projects. A turnout that large suggests the issue is drawing wide attention from people working on housing in and around McKinney.

Earth Month Efforts Expand With Cleanup And Bee Classes

Grimes also highlighted Earth Month activities, including a community cleanup challenge and free beekeeping classes offered through a partnership involving the city’s environmental sustainability office and the McKinney Public Library system. The classes are meant to give residents practical skills, while the cleanup effort adds another public-facing piece to the city’s environmental work this month.

Library Area Work Tied To Parking And Softball Fields

After a board question about construction near the library on Eldorado Parkway, Grimes said the work is for additional parking and preparation for softball fields south of the John and Judy Gay Library. That gives more context for residents seeing activity in the area and wondering what is being built.

Half Marathon Brings Thousands To McKinney

Visit McKinney reported that the recent half marathon drew runners from 28 states and four countries, with just over 4,100 participants. The total crowd connected to the event was expected to reach around 8,000 when family members and spectators were included. Organizers were described as very happy with the first year, and the event could return as an annual fixture.

Arts In Bloom Marks Spring Push Downtown

Visit McKinney also praised the city’s Arts in Bloom event in downtown McKinney. The event was described as a spring kickoff that helps bring people back outside and into the downtown area. That kind of steady foot traffic helps keep the area active during one of its busiest seasons.

International Girls Cup Still Draws Teams