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Allen voters will select a new mayor this May.
What’s happening
Current Allen Mayor Baine Brooks is completing his final term in the seat and cannot run for reelection based on the city's ordinances for term limits. Candidates for the Allen mayoral race include Chris Schulmeister and Dave Shafer. The filing period opened Jan. 14 and ended at 5 p.m. Feb. 13.
Election day is Saturday, May 2. Early voting begins April 20 and ends April 28, per the Texas Secretary of State’s website.
The specifics
Candidates were asked to keep responses within 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity. Candidates are listed in ballot order.
Retired - Finance, Allen City Council, Mayor Pro Tem, Economic Development Corporation, All Community Outreach Board
Why are you running for mayor of Allen?
Allen is moving from decades of rapid growth into the responsibilities of a mature city. That shift brings new challenges, and it requires steady and experienced leadership. My professional background, years serving the city, and the relationships I have built uniquely position me to help guide Allen forward.
What is the biggest challenge facing the residents of Allen?
The cost of living. Increasing assessed values for property owners has become a struggle. This growth needs to be balanced with a tax rate that provides Allen residents with the level of services they expect. Additionally, managing the cost of water and wastewater impacts the cost of living.
How do you plan to address this issue?
During my six years on Council, I voted to reduce the tax rate every year. A 5% Homestead Exemption was adopted. The level of city services may need to be adjusted, and I will work with City staff and citizens to prioritize services, continuing my efforts toward further tax relief.
As Allen approaches buildout, are there any uses you’d like to see developed on remaining land?
While on the Economic Development Board, I learned we have several options available to us from a Land Use and Housing standpoint. Regardless of the type of development, whether it be housing, retail or commercial, we must focus on innovative solutions that complement the neighborhood in which the development occurs.
What are some new ideas or programs you would like the city to explore?
“Table Talk,” a program led by Allen’s Community Engagement Advisory Board, is an example of the kind of initiative I supported while on City Council. Programs like this are critical for understanding what matters most to Allen residents. As Mayor, I would look for additional ways to increase community engagement.
As the city celebrates its 150th anniversary, what should the community look forward to in the next decade, and how are the city’s leaders working to make it happen?
Allen will continue to be recognized as one of the best places in North Texas to live and to do business. City leaders, including staff, are committed to this and understand we must not get complacent. As Mayor, I will see that residents play a part in defining Allen’s future.
Private investigator, business owner, Allen City Council 2021–2024, Allen resident
Why are you running for mayor of Allen?
I’m running because Allen is entering an important transition. As we approach buildout, thoughtful leadership and long-term planning matter more than ever. I want to help guide the city forward by preserving what makes Allen special while preparing responsibly for the future.
What is the biggest challenge facing the residents of Allen?
The biggest challenge is managing Allen’s transition from rapid growth to long-term sustainability. As buildout approaches, the focus shifts to redevelopment, infrastructure maintenance and financial stability. With the statewide push to reduce property taxes, careful planning and disciplined stewardship will be essential to keeping Allen strong.
How do you plan to address this issue?
It starts with proactive planning and disciplined stewardship. That means maintaining infrastructure before problems grow, encouraging thoughtful redevelopment, and ensuring stable funding for core services like public safety and parks. By planning ahead and making deliberate decisions now, Allen can remain financially strong and well-maintained as it matures.
As Allen approaches buildout, are there any uses you’d like to see developed on remaining land?
Remaining land should be developed thoughtfully and in ways that strengthen Allen long-term. That includes completing projects like the Kalahari Resort near SH 121, reinvestment in areas like downtown, and development that complements existing neighborhoods. As buildout nears, the focus should shift to high-quality reinvestment that adds lasting value.
What are some new ideas or programs you would like the city to explore?
I’d like continued focus on proactive infrastructure maintenance, downtown revitalization and long-term financial stability. That includes exploring tourism-related revenue options, pursuing a larger local share of hotel and sales tax revenue, and evaluating citywide public safety and parks funding zones. Thoughtful reinvestment can help keep Allen strong and financially resilient.
As the city celebrates its 150th anniversary, what should the community look forward to in the next decade, and how are the city’s leaders working to make it happen?
Allen’s next decade should focus on renewal and reinvestment. Residents can expect continued investment in parks, public spaces, revitalized areas like downtown, and well-maintained infrastructure. By prioritizing public safety and long-term planning, the city can honor its history while building a future that keeps Allen safe and desirable.
