A special election was called last month to fill the seat after Council Member Shelby Williams resigned. The candidate elected to Place 5 will hold office until the May 2027 election when Williams’ term was slated to expire.
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.
Gary Cary
Experience:
Business Executive leading large organizations, Planning and Zoning 1st Vice Chair, 2025 Bond Committee
Candidate Website:
garyforplano.com
Why are you running for Plano City Council?
Plano is home, I want to serve our city to keep it the City of Excellence. I have successful executive experience leading large businesses, 4 years on P and Z commission, and served on the 2025 Bond Committee. I am uniquely qualified for this role at this time in Plano.
What are the biggest challenges Plano is facing?
Completing road repair projects quickly. Addressing affordable housing issues effectively. Preserving our top rated Police and Fire Departments and Schools. Safe guarding our quality of life in the face of changing revenue streams with fiscally conservative budget management to keep property taxes as low as possible.
How do you plan to address these issues?
Solid fiscal management will address many issues. We must implement technology where appropriate to become more efficient. I will work with city staff and have advantage as I have worked with them over the past 4 years. I will use our Comprehensive Plan to guide decisions, short and long term.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
Preserve Plano's Suburban Character by funding our public safety teams adequately. A safe city can be a thriving city. Finish the road projects quickly without sacrificing quality. Find solutions for seniors who want to downsize but do not have options in Plano today. This will free up housing inventory.
Steve Lavine
Experience:
Retired from marketing research; Plano Library Board, chair 3 yrs; Parks and Rec Commission
Candidate Website:
Steve4Plano.com
Contact Information:
214-466-1199
Why are you running for Plano City Council?
I’m passionate about Plano and want to ensure it remains a vibrant, welcoming city. I know the importance of listening and making decisions that reflect our residents' values. I’m committed to preserving what makes Plano special—our strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and thriving economy—while planning for a sustainable future.
What are the biggest challenges Plano is facing?
Plano needs thoughtful renewal planning for its future. With an ageing population and fewer school-age children, we must keep our city and schools vibrant and attractive. To keep our tax rates low, we'll need to make strategic investments to maintain our roads, libraries, recreation centers, and neighborhoods.
How do you plan to address these issues?
We can embrace opportunities like multi-use redevelopments at Collin Creek and Willow Bend, creating community hubs with events, arts, and local businesses. Public-private partnerships will provide these amenities without overburdening taxpayers. Our growing senior population requires a West Plano Active Adult Center to relieve the Sam Johnson Center.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
Keep Plano Safe, Maintain Low Taxes, Improve Traffic Flow. Focus on renewal and redevelopment. Revitalizing retail and office spaces, maintaining infrastructure, and enhancing public amenities are essential. Our parks, libraries, and public safety services are cornerstones of our quality of life, and I’ll work to keep them strong.
