McKinney City Council prioritizes airport development and affordable housing initiatives

The joint meeting of the McKinney City Council and the McKinney Independent School District Board of Trustees on February 28, 2025, focused on several key priorities for the city, particularly in the areas of housing, homelessness, and infrastructure development.

City officials emphasized the importance of McKinney National Airport as a vital asset for both general and commercial aviation. The council is committed to leveraging this resource to enhance the city’s economic growth. Additionally, the discussion highlighted ongoing efforts to address affordable housing challenges. The city has initiated programs aimed at increasing its affordable housing stock, with the recent hiring of Margaret Lee as the new Community and Housing Development Director seen as a significant step forward in these efforts.

Homelessness was identified as a pressing issue, not only in McKinney but across the nation. The council acknowledged the role of the school district in addressing homelessness, noting that schools often encounter these challenges before the city does. Collaborative efforts between the city and the school district to tackle homelessness were welcomed, as both entities seek to improve the overall housing situation in the community.

The meeting also touched on the difficulties posed by a challenging legislative environment. City officials expressed concerns about the lack of support from the state legislature, which has made it increasingly difficult for local communities to provide necessary services. The council remains focused on navigating these challenges as they move forward.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city council's commitment to addressing critical issues such as housing, homelessness, and infrastructure, while also highlighting the need for collaboration with the school district to effectively tackle these challenges.