Michael Kowski was appointed the new president and CEO of the McKinney Economic Development Corp, according to an Aug. 29 announcement from the organization.

Kowski is the director of the McKinney Parks and Recreation Department. He brings over 16 years of experience in long-term city planning and urban development to the role, according to a news release. Kowski will begin in the new position Oct. 1.

The appointment to the position comes after former President and CEO Peter Tokar III’s resignation Aug. 16.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to lead MEDC in expanding economic opportunities in the city and to promote our great city to national and international audiences,” Kowski said in the news release. “I look forward to attracting new businesses and experiences to our community by showcasing our high quality of life and seizing every opportunity for our continued economic success.”

Kowski began his role in the parks department in June 2017, according to the city’s website. In that time, he has overseen multiple parks development projects, including the development of the city’s indoor tennis facility, over 200 acres of parkland acquisition and a $25 million renovation at the McKinney Soccer Complex at Craig Ranch.


Kowski is a certified urban designer and credentialed urban planner with degrees from Harvard University and the University of Illinois. Prior to serving in his role with the city of McKinney, he worked for the city of Orland Park, Illinois, overseeing the Orland Park Open Land Commission, according to the release.

“We look forward to continued success with Michael Kowski and our MEDC team as he brings his experience in regional economic development and urban planning to our organization,” MEDC board Chair Brian Loughmiller said in the release.

For more information on the McKinney Economic Development Corp., visit https://uniquemckinney.com.