McKinney City Council considers steps to rename Throckmorton Street and Throckmorton Place

McKinney City Council heard a presentation from city staff about the potential steps that would be involved in renaming Throckmorton Street and Throckmorton Place on the east side of the city.

In July 2020, the Throckmorton Statue Advisory board was assembled to examine the potential removal of the Throckmorton statue. The statue is located downtown in front of the McKinney Performing Arts Center. Throckmorton served in the Confederate Army during the Civil War. Last summer, city staff began conducting research related to the historical context, appropriateness and relevance of the statue in McKinney’s downtown after a number of residents asked for the statue's removal.

While the statue remains in place following an October presentation of the board’s findings, the renaming of Throckmorton Street and Throckmorton Place was identified by the board as an item for further discussion and has been requested during City Council meetings by citizens.

Staff noted that street renaming can be beneficial, but is lengthy and does present challenges to affected parties, such as property owners, businesses and residents.

During the work session, staff noted there are 40 residential properties and 23 commercial and multifamily properties along Throckmorton Street and Throckmorton Place that would be affected by a potential renaming. Two historically significant locations were also identified along Throckmorton Street: E.S. Doty High School and Throckmorton Street Church of Christ. The future municipal complex would also be located near Throckmorton Street.

Residents would be responsible for some of the costs that come with renaming the streets, such as updating car registration, utility information and insurance information. Financial effects to businesses are similar.

Following the presentation, staff said the city will work to engage the public to inform and seek feedback from residents, businesses and property owners along the two Throckmorton streets. City Council will ultimately provide direction on if the streets are renamed.

Council members Rainey Rogers and Frederick Frazier both stated they were not in favor of renaming the street. Council Member Justin Beller and Mayor George Fuller spoke in favor of the potential renaming.

“I refuse to look at this as a right or left issue, it's a street name that happens to offend some people, so let's talk about it,” Fuller said. “I'm in favor of what the community would like to see in their community."