Eligible residents have until April 3 to register to vote, and early voting starts April 22 and ends April 29. Election Day is May 3.
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. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.
Taha Ansari
Experience:
Psychiatrist at Baylor Scott & White and Dallas VA, Psychiatrist at state funded CPAN program
Occupation:
Psychiatrist
Candidate Website:
www.tahaformckinney.com
Contact Information:
469-237-1803
Why are you running for this office?
Currently, I work with a diverse range of population. My experiences have allowed me to listen closely to people’s concerns and challenges. I am passionate about using my expertise to do even more for everyday citizens, helping to make McKinney a place that residents are truly proud to call home.
What is the No. 1 challenge facing the residents of McKinney? How do you plan to address this issue?
The biggest challenge we are facing is the rapid growth of the city which strains infrastructure, housing, and public services. I plan to focus on improving the infrastructure, expanding affordable housing, and public services to accommodate growth while maintaining city’s quality of life.
In your opinion, what is the biggest development or project underway in McKinney right now, and what impact will it have on the city and residents?
Biggest projects underway are previous possible expansion of Airport, construction of amphitheater and water park. This significantly impact the traffic in McKinney especially US 380. I plan to work with the city to expand services for efficient management of traffic flow.
What are some new ideas or programs you would like the city to explore?
I would focus on advocating for mental health program, awareness campaigns, accessible care, and providing resources for residents in need. Supporting local organization and fostering a culture of care is essential for our growth.
Jim Garrison
Experience:
Former Councilman, Economic Development Board, Building & Standards Commission, DFW Airport Expansion, President Eldorado HOA
Occupation:
Owner, Logistix Media & Logistix Holdings
Candidate Website:
www.facebook.com/jimgarrison.texas
Contact Information:
214-336-2258
Why are you running for this office?
I have over 35 years of service to my community. I enjoy serving and participating in making McKinney a great place to live and work!
What is the No. 1 challenge facing the residents of McKinney? How do you plan to address this issue?
The McKinney master plan forecasts that when completely built out, the population of McKinney will be 400K. The biggest challenge will be keeping the infrastructure several steps ahead of the population growth. City leaders will need to continually make decisions that perfectly balance a pro family and pro business culture.
In your opinion, what is the biggest development or project underway in McKinney right now, and what impact will it have on the city and residents?
There are two developments that will break ground in April. The McKinney airport will be a tremendous contributor to the economy. The annual economic impact will grow from $300M to $1B in 5 years. The 20K seat amphitheater is forecast to generate an economic impact of $1B in 10 years.
What are some new ideas or programs you would like the city to explore?
McKinney needs to always provide first responders with the resources to effectively do their jobs. A safe community needs to always be a top priority. Those resources can be in the form of adequate funding, technology, competitive salaries, and visible support from elected officials.
Ernest Lynch
Experience:
Healthcare Administration overseeing operations, budgets, and workforce management. City and community boards.
Occupation:
Retired CEO of Medical City McKinney
Candidate Website:
www.lynchformckinney.com
Why are you running for this office?
I’m running for City Council to ensure McKinney grows responsibly while protecting our community values. With 38 years in healthcare leadership, I’ve managed budgets, operations, and workforce development. I know how to make tough decisions, drive strategic growth, and support businesses. I’m ready to lead and fight for McKinney’s future.
What is the No. 1 challenge facing the residents of McKinney? How do you plan to address this issue?
The No. 1 challenge facing McKinney is managing rapid growth while ensuring public safety and maintaining quality of life. I’ll focus on workforce development, improving infrastructure, and supporting a business-friendly environment. We must support public safety with the resources and competitive pay needed to keep our families safe.
In your opinion, what is the biggest development or project underway in McKinney right now, and what impact will it have on the city and residents?
The expansion of TKI Airport is a key project for McKinney, and its development should benefit all residents and align with the community’s needs. While I haven’t yet had access to the necessary data and projections, I’ll base my decisions on community input and accurate data.
What are some new ideas or programs you would like the city to explore?
I’d like the city to explore expanding support for the homeless, addressing the mental health and substance abuse aspects of the crisis. McKinney lacks sufficient shelter facilities, and I’d advocate for additional resources to provide care and long-term stability. This would include collaborating with healthcare providers, law enforcement, and nonprofits.
Brian J. Magnuson
Experience:
Military, Small Business Owner, Educator, Arts Commission Vice-Chair
Occupation:
Educator, Professional Artist
Contact Information:
469-525-5543
Why are you running for this office?
I stand for a better city government, prioritizing quality growth and effective communication. My faith guides my decisions and relationships. With experience as a soldier, educator, DI athlete, and artist, I bring discipline, discernment, and a vision to serve selflessly by fostering a unique collaboration effort for the community's benefit.
What is the No. 1 challenge facing the residents of McKinney? How do you plan to address this issue?
For young people and new families in McKinney, rising housing costs make homeownership increasingly difficult. Affordability is a major barrier. Discerning what we invest in can lead to creative opportunities to bring housing costs into affordability for the young & elderly alike. This issue must be solved for our future health.
In your opinion, what is the biggest development or project underway in McKinney right now, and what impact will it have on the city and residents?
The TKI airport expansion is McKinney’s biggest development, with divided opinions on balancing revenue growth and quality of life. Funding has shifted after voters rejected bonds in 2015 and 2023. Many questions remain unanswered: how can we make an accurate judgment? Trust in leadership to provide clear messaging is essential.
What are some new ideas or programs you would like the city to explore?
Continued growth through partnerships with businesses, and community members to strengthen our city. Investing in and creating an arts center where the former city hall location sits in the downtown cultural district will foster a bond that enhances McKinney’s identity and enriches the lives of all who call it home.
Derrick Tarver
Experience:
Founder/Executive Director of Collin County Chaos, Volunteering for Hugs, Lead By Example, and Volunteer McKinney
Occupation:
Learning and Development / Founder/Executive Director of Collin County Chaos
Candidate Website:
www.derricktarver4mckinneyatlarge.com
Contact Information:
972-449-8641
Why are you running for this office?
I am running for office because McKinney is more than just a city to me. It is my home. Born and raised here, I deeply understand both the strengths that make McKinney exceptional and the areas that need attention. I understand what needs to be done to move towards creating…
What is the No. 1 challenge facing the residents of McKinney? How do you plan to address this issue?
Realistically, the challenge is to keep the balance. McKinney is growing rapidly, and with that growth comes both opportunity and responsibility. Over the next few years, we can expect continued population expansion, economic development, and increasing demands on infrastructure, housing, and public services. As our city evolves, we must ensure…
In your opinion, what is the biggest development or project underway in McKinney right now, and what impact will it have on the city and residents?
In my opinion, the airport expansion and the Sunset Amphitheatre are the biggest development projects underway in McKinney right now. These projects are expected to contribute to economic growth, increased job opportunities, increased tourism revenue, and putting McKinney as the regional center for entertainment and businesses. However, there are two…
What are some new ideas or programs you would like the city to explore?
My ideas and programs are community centered. Here’s what I have assessed and what I believe will help McKinney progress effectively: Bridging the Gap Between Growth & Community Needs—New developments should enhance our quality of life, not create strain. I will push for better public input in city planning, ensuring…
