City and county updates The 2016-17 McKinney City Council is, from left: Don Day, Mayor Pro Tem Randy Pogue, Travis Ussery (seated), Tracy Rath, Rainey Rogers, Mayor Brian Loughmiller (seated), and Chuck Branch.[/caption]

McKinney City Council


Big decisions made in 2016



  • New city manager
    Paul Grimes was selected in May as the new city manager for the city of McKinney after a nationwide search. Grimes replaced interim City Manager Tom Muehlenbeck, who had been with the city since May 2014.



  • 2040 comprehensive plan
    In 2015 the city began updating its comprehensive plan, which provides direction for the development of the community, including land use, transportation, parks and recreation, urban design and utilities.



  • Permitting rights
    In 2015,  McKinney officials and the Collin County Commissioners Court discussed permitting rights within the city’s ETJ. Discussion in 2016 led to two three-party court cases that include  a business owner, the city and county.



  • New MEDC president
    Darrell Auterson was selected as president of the McKinney Economic Development Corp. on July 1. He  serves on the board of directors for the International Economic Development Council.





Top issues for 2017



  • 2040 comprehensive plan
    City officials said they will continue work on the comprehensive plan with a focus on economic development opportunities in commercial areas, such as the Craig Ranch corporate center along SH 121, the US 75 and US 380 corridors, and the McKinney National Airport.



  • Infrastructure
    City officials said key road infrastructure projects that need to move forward will also be a top focus. Those roadways include Laud Howell Parkway, Bloomdale Road and FM 546 south of the airport to provide better mobility in undeveloped areas of the city.



  • Potential new City Hall
    Focus on the city’s town center as construction begins on the 9-acre site will also continue, officials said. Ongoing discussions regarding parking initiatives, such as a parking garage and a new City Hall, will continue. Right now, city officials said conducting a space and needs assessment for a new government center is a top priority.





A question for Brian Loughmiller, mayor


What do you think was the biggest accomplishment during your tenure on City Council?


I am proud of the recognition we have received nationally for being an exceptional city over the past eight years and the efforts to expand infrastructure I believe will bring quality commercial development. I participated in projects such as the Wistron Corp.’s relocation, Raytheon’s expansion and several other economic initiatives as mayor, but it has been the work of the entire council that has allowed for these opportunities. I am proud of the quality-of-life projects brought during my time on council, including The Dr Pepper Stars Center, Cooper Fitness Center, Bonnie Wenk Park, improvements to city parks and the Apex Centre.