Southbound U.S. 75 Exit Ramp to U.S. 380 Scheduled for Closure

Press Release
For Immediate Release

For More Information, Please Call:
Mark Pettit
TxDOT Public Information Officer
(214) 317-2480
mpettit@dot.state.tx.us

Gus Khankarli
TxDOT Assistant Area Engineer
(972) 542-2345
gkhanka@dot.state.tx.us

Southbound U.S. 75 Exit Ramp to U.S. 380 Scheduled for Closure

COLLIN COUNTY - The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will close the southbound U.S. 75 exit ramp to U.S. 380, in McKinney, beginning Monday, April 6. The closure is expected to last until spring 2010 and is necessary to ensure the safety of the traveling public, as well as contractor crews and TxDOT inspectors during the reconstruction of the southbound U.S. 75 mainlanes and frontage road.

The closure is part of a traffic control plan designed to keep traffic moving while the $25.6 million U.S. 75/U.S. 380 intersection improvement project is completed.

TxDOT asks motorists to drive carefully through the work zone, and has placed electronic message boards along southbound U.S. 75 to notify the public of the scheduled closure. Signs will be in place to direct all traffic exiting southbound U.S. 75 to U.S. 380 to use the Wilmeth Road exit for the duration of the closure.

The project is scheduled for completion by fall 2010. TxDOT and Texas Sterling Construction Co. would like to apologize in advance for any inconvenience, and thank area drivers, local businesses, the City of McKinney and Collin County for their continued patience and cooperation as crews work diligently to complete this vital project as soon and as safely as possible.

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Outstanding warrants targeted during statewide roundup

Press Release
For Immediate Release

For More Information, Please Call:
Anna Folmnsbee
Communications and Media Manager
afolmnsb@mckinneytexas.org
972-547-7525

Outstanding warrants targeted during statewide roundup
McKinney law enforcement agencies urge violators to pay, avoid consequences

McKINNEY, Texas (Feb. 13, 2009) - The City of McKinney is participating in a statewide warrant roundup starting Feb. 16. The effort in McKinney will primarily target people with outstanding class C warrants, although all warrants are subject to be served. Anyone with an outstanding warrant or citation is urged to take care of it as soon as possible to avoid arrest.

“Because of the success of the roundup the last two year, we are broadening our target this year. Anyone with an outstanding warrant could be arrested at any time of the day or night – at home or at work,” said City Marshal Tim Rich.

Approximately 200 agencies across Texas will be participating in this third annual roundup. Agencies participating in the McKinney roundup include: The McKinney Marshals Office, McKinney Municipal Court, McKinney Police Department and the McKinney Citizens on Patrol. Last year during the warrant roundup, the McKinney Municipal Court cleared 596 misdemeanor warrants.

For more information on how to pay citations and avoid arrest during the warrant roundup, violators should contact the McKinney Municipal Court at 972-547-7679.

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McKinney water system and public works recognized

For Immediate Release

For More Information, Please Call:
Anna Folmnsbee
Communications and Media Manager
972-547-7525
afolmnsb@mckinneytexas.org

McKinney water system and public works recognized

McKINNEY, Texas (Feb. 11, 2009) - The City of McKinney water system, operated by the Public Works department, has received a Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) 2008 Public Drinking Water Recognition Program award for exceptional compliance with the Total Coliform Rule (TCR) requirements.

According to TCEQ, “The program recognizes the effort, dedication, and contribution public water suppliers make to the state and to protecting the public health of all citizens.”

“We are proud to receive this award, recognizing our commitment to protect the public health of the citizens of McKinney. It takes hard work and cooperation of our entire water maintenance team to maintain the 737 miles of water main with 39,590 service connections to all 122,000 residents of McKinney, and it’s nice to be recognized as doing our job well,” said Public Works Executive Director Hal Cranor.

Other tasks to ensure safe drinking water include collecting 120 water samples per month to ensure quality and performing system flushing at 136 sites throughout the city to ensure fresh quality water to all customers. To receive a TCR award, a public water system must have no TCR violations and must be active for 60 consecutive months.

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Hot Dog! Seventh-annual Krewe of Barkus Parade in McKinney

For Immediate Release

For More Information, Please Call:
Ty Lake
Main Street Program Director
972-547-2662

Anna Folmnsbee
Communications and Media Manager
972-547-7525

Hot Dog!  Seventh-annual Krewe of Barkus Parade in McKinney
Families and dogs dress up for parade, contest in Historic Downtown

McKINNEY, Texas (Feb 4, 2009) - McKinney Main Street is partnering up with the Art Institute of McKinney to host the seventh-annual Krewe of Barkus “Classic TV for Canines” dog parade and costume contest on Sunday, Feb. 22 in Historic Downtown McKinney.

Located at Mitchell Park, just west of the downtown square, vendors will be on hand starting at 12:30 p.m. to showcase their products and services. The parade begins promptly at 2 p.m. followed by the costume contest. Participants should arrive no later than 12:30 p.m. to check in for the contest and parade. All prizes will be awarded at the main stage in the park.

Last year, 200 dogs participated in the parade and more than 3,000 spectators enjoyed the sights and sounds of the event which was created by the Art Institute of McKinney.

“Of all of the successful events in Historic Downtown McKinney, Krewe of Barkus is possibly the family favorite,” said Main Street Program Director Ty Lake. “There are fun, free activities for entire families, whether they walk on two legs or four. This is an opportunity for creative fun in a family environment.”

Patterned after the Mystic Krewe of Barkus in New Orleans, which was established to help abused and abandoned canines, the Krewe of Barkus in McKinney will feature a parade, vendor booths, interactive activities and much more.

“There is nothing like a bulldog wearing a feather boa to put you in the Mardi Gras spirit,” said Blynda Christian, director of the Art Institute of McKinney and parade coordinator.  “I’m constantly amazed at the creativity we see in the costumes.”

Barkus fun isn’t limited to the dogs and their owners. Children may enter decorated floats and take part in the parade. The parade route begins at Mitchell Park at the corner of Church St. and Louisiana St., proceeding east on Louisiana, then north on Tennessee St. and finally east on Virginia ending back at Mitchell Park.

The event is free and open to the public. Pre-registration is required for costume contestants. Individuals planning to participate in the parade should register now, as space is limited to 250 entries. Cost for participants is $5 per dog to enter the costume contest. To register, contact the Art Institute of McKinney at 972-529-6872 or info@artinstituteofmckinney.com. Please include the dog’s name, color and breed, and the owner’s name, address, phone number and email address.

For more information about the festival call 972.547.2661 or visit www.downtownmckinney.com.

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Construction starts on McKinney Dr. Pepper StarCenter

For Immediate Release

For More Information, Please Call:
Anna Folmnsbee
Communications and Media Manager
afolmnsb@mckinneytexas.org
972-547-7525

Construction starts on McKinney Dr. Pepper StarCenter
New agreement costs no additional taxpayer funds, provides same benefits

McKINNEY, TEXAS (Feb. 3, 2009) – Work will start as early as today on the McKinney Dr. Pepper StarCenter after the final contract was signed yesterday. The new agreement dictates the facility will open in October and uses no additional taxpayer funding. Some improvements from the initial design include a better layout and more environmentally friendly features like energy-efficient lighting.

“The Dr. Pepper StarCenter will greatly benefit the citizens of McKinney. People in McKinney have been asking for this new public recreation facility, and we are extremely pleased to come through on this promise to bring it to them,” said City Manager Frank Ragan.

The final agreement between the Dallas Stars and the City of McKinney includes previously negotiated features, like a minimum commitment for public skating, scholarships for McKinney youth and other benefits for McKinney residents.

When completed, the Dr. Pepper StarCenter will be approximately 85,000 square feet with two sheets of ice fit for both regulation hockey play and competition figure skating. Locker rooms, a concession area, at least two party rooms and a Dallas Stars retail store make up the rest of the space. The more than six-acre site in Craig Ranch, building and equipment in the facility will be owned by the City of McKinney, and the Dallas Stars will provide all scheduling and programming with some exceptions.

McKinney residents will have a three-day priority period before non-residents in which to register for major programs at the facility like hockey or ice skating leagues, clinics and camps. Public skating will be allowed for at least 520 hours, and adult and youth drop-in hockey is guaranteed at least 364 hours annually.

The agreement also provides up to 25 scholarships for economically disadvantaged McKinney youth. The funds will pay for the registration fee and the free rental of basic equipment for 15 hockey players and 10 ice skaters.

Dallas Stars will promote City programs through advertising at the facility. The organization agreed to provide donated Dallas Stars or Texas Rangers tickets at local charity auctions in McKinney as well as discounted tickets for certain events. During each calendar year, the Dallas Stars will host several events at the facility, like a practice by the Dallas Stars and an appearance by a Dallas Stars player or coach selected by the City.

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City of McKinney takes measures to contend with budget deficit

For Immediate Release

For More Information, Please Call:
Anna Folmnsbee
Communications and Media Manager
972-547-7525
afolmnsb@mckinneytexas.org

City of McKinney takes measures to contend with budget deficit
City Manager outlines steps to make up estimated $5.1 million difference

McKINNEY, TEXAS (Jan. 16, 2009) - The City of McKinney announced today that the downturn in the economy has adversely affected revenue. Actual revenues from sales tax, permits, licenses and interest earnings are estimated to be $5.1 million less than budgeted for this fiscal year.

City Manager Frank Ragan has outlined several measures to balance the budget against the decline in revenues. However, the city does not anticipate any staff layoffs.

“It is necessary for us to cut expenses to balance the budget. The most important thing is to explore every measure possible in order to avoid layoffs and avoid reductions in the most critical services to our citizens. I think the plan we are putting into place does just that,”said Ragan.

Effective immediately, the city will implement the following measures to balance the budget:

- Freeze or delay hiring of newly budgeted and vacant positions.
- Review the need for planned consultant studies, resulting in possible delays or deferment of some.
-  Reduce or eliminate overtime by 25 percent from the original approved budget.
-  Reduce travel and training by a minimum of 10 percent from the original budget.

City staff will continue to evaluate daily operations and seek ways to save.

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Main Street McKinney Program Earns State and National Recognition

Press Release
For Immediate Release

For More Information, Please Call:
Anna Folmnsbee
Communications and Media Manager
972.547.7525

Ty Lake
McKinney Main Street Director
972.547.2662

Main Street McKinney Program Earns State and National Recognition
Downtown-focused program earns title for third straight year

McKINNEY, Texas (Dec. 11, 2008) - The Texas Historical Commission (THC) and the National Trust for Historic Preservation recently recognized McKinney with the National Main Street Designation. McKinney has earned the distinction each year since 2005. A total of 52 Texas cities were named as National Main Street cities this year.

“Historic Downtown McKinney is the heart and soul of our city and what makes us unique,” said Ty Lake, Director of McKinney Main Street. “Our events, programs and businesses here work together to provide an experience for everyone who comes downtown. We have the total package, and we are proud to have earned national recognition for the hard work of so many people.”

The mission of Main Street McKinney is to ensure that downtown McKinney continues to be the vibrant, inviting, safe and growing area it is known for today. This year, Main Street led the city’s Independence Day celebration – the first annual Red, White and Boom event that attracted over 30,000 attendees. Another huge success was the first annual Oktoberfest, which brought more than 20,000 attendees to the newly renovated downtown area.

“A lot of hard work goes into achieving this recognition. Main Street communities exemplify the Texas mystique, and this recognition honors the many people, including Main Street directors and volunteers, who put in countless hours to make their Main Street programs work,” said Debra Farst, state coordinator of the Texas Main Street Program.

Cities chosen as National Main Street Cities must show above average performance in 10 categories. The selection criteria focus on planning, staff and volunteers, preservation ethic, training and program assessment. Out of a possible 105 points, McKinney Main Street earned an exemplary 96.

Evaluation from the award entry includes the comments that “it is a privilege to have McKinney as a Texas Main Street city. Thank you for the pride you take in your community as well as your passion for preserving the heart of your city.”

Fundraising efforts by the group exceeded the set goals, bringing in more than $400,000 to put on events in downtown like Krewe of Barkus, Art and Jazz Festival, Red, White and Boom, Oktoberfest, Scare on the Square and Dickens of a Christmas.

Visit www.downtownmckinney.com for more information, or contact McKinney Main Street at 972.547.2660. For more information on the Texas Historical Commission’s Main Street program visit www.thc.state.tx.us.

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McKinney climbs safest city rankings in spite of explosive growth

For Immediate Release

For More Information, Please Call:
Anna Folmnsbee
Communications and Media Manager
afolmnsbee@mckinneytexas.org
972-547-7525

McKinney climbs safest city rankings in spite of explosive growth

McKINNEY, Texas (Dec. 1, 2008) - According to the CQ Press 2008 Safest Cities Report, McKinney is among the safest cities in the country. McKinney climbed six spots this year to be named the 60th safest city in the country, and it is still one of the fastest growing cities according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

“We’re obviously pleased with the results of the study. Our officers and detectives work hard at deterring and investigating crime, and this report shows their dedication to making McKinney a safe place to live, work and visit in the face of challenges like continued rapid growth,” said Police Chief Doug Kowalski.

Overall, of all cities with a population of more than 75,000 McKinney was ranked 60th of the 385 cities across the country measured.

“The McKinney Police Department attributes much of our success to great working partnerships with our City Council and the citizens of McKinney,” said Kowalski.

The report measures murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary and motor vehicle theft.  Each offense is measured equally, and cities are ranked compared to a national average of these crimes using FBI crime data.

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Downtown McKinney hosts special holiday events, activities

For Immediate Release

For More Information, Please Call:
Anna Folmnsbee
Communications and Media Manager
972-547-7525

Ty Lake
Main Street Program Director
972-547-2662

Downtown McKinney hosts special holiday events, activities
Annual Dickens of a Christmas, Candlelight shopping and tree lighting on the list

Downtown McKinney hosts special holiday events, activities
Annual Dickens of a Christmas, Candlelight shopping and tree lighting on the list

McKINNEY, Texas (Nov. 25, 2008) � Thousands will visit Historic Downtown McKinney Nov. 28 through 30, as it transforms into a Victorian Christmas scene for the 28th annual Dickens of a Christmas event. The 160 year-old town square was recently improved with new lights, landscaping, benches, street paving and wider sidewalks, making it even more suitable for annual events like this one.

Dickens is free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28 and Saturday, Nov. 29, and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 30. A special tree-lighting ceremony is scheduled for 6:15 p.m. on Friday in Mitchell Park. Mayor Bill Whitfield and City Manager Frank Ragan will light McKinney’s living Christmas tree, planted in the park to serve the city for years to come. Singer Erica Lane will provide the entertainment.

“Dickens of a Christmas is McKinney’s premier festival that attracts visitors from all over the nation,” said Main Street Program Director Ty Lake. “This year will be even better, with new renovations to highlight our pedestrian-friendly atmosphere for shoppers looking for the perfect gift, diners relaxing in one of several restaurants or visitors just enjoying the special offerings that weekend.”

Strolling carolers, visits with Santa Claus, live entertainment and food are special additions to downtown during Dickens. A new highlight this year is a snow sledding or tubing hill. And carriage rides will be available at select times for no additional charge. More than 100 shops, boutiques, art galleries and restaurants home to downtown McKinney will be open.

On Wednesday, Nov. 26, downtown streets will be blocked off to through traffic beginning at 2 p.m. in order to begin setting up for the festival. Streets will be re-opening no later than midnight on Sunday, Nov. 30.

Candlelight Shopping Kicks off on Friday, Nov. 28 and runs through every Saturday during the month of December. The participating shops in Downtown McKinney, easy to spot by the candle displayed in their window, will stay open for extended hours to allow for more holiday shopping and dining.

Trolley service will be provided by Craig Ranch on Friday and Saturday from The First Baptist Church in McKinney to Mitchell Park in Historic Downtown McKinney. For more information, visit www.downtownmckinney.com or contact McKinney Main Street at 972-547-2660. Title sponsors for the 28th annual Dickens of a Christmas are IESI and The City of McKinney.

That same weekend, the McKinney Repertory Theatre performs the timeless favorite “A Christmas Carol” at the McKinney Performing Arts Center (MPAC) in the heart of downtown. Performances are Nov. 28 and 29 at 2 and 5 p.m. and Nov. 30 at 2 p.m. MPAC also hosts Santa Claus, who will be open for visits Nov. 28 and 29 from noon to 8 p.m. and Nov. 30 from 1 to 5 p.m. Visit www.mckinneyperformingartscenter.org for a full calendar of holiday events at MPAC. On Saturday, November 29, Believe 2008! Family Fun Run will take place at Mitchell Park in Historic Downtown McKinney. Visit www.believemckinney.org for additional information.

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Housing Lawsuit Filed Against City and Housing Authority

For Immediate Release

For More Information, Please Call:
Anna Folmnsbee
Communications and Media Manager
afolmnsb@mckinneytexas.org
972-547-7525 / 469-667-7688

Housing Lawsuit Filed Against City and Housing Authority

McKINNEY, Texas (November 20, 2008) - The Inclusive Communities Project, Inc. (ICP), a nonprofit corporation involved in public housing issues, filed suit today against the City of McKinney and the McKinney Housing Authority (MHA). ICP alleges that McKinney and the MHA discriminate against individuals based on race or color because the city did not enter into an agreement to partner with ICP for the development of a low-income multifamily housing complex west of US 75.

“The city’s response to this lawsuit will show that the claims of discrimination made by this group are absolutely untrue,”� said McKinney Mayor Pro Tem Bill Cox. “The city works to ensure that affordable housing is available to all residents and is proud of its record of being at the forefront in providing low-income housing. Over half of the low-income housing units in Collin County are located in McKinney, although it makes up less than 20 percent of the County’s population. McKinney also has about twice the statewide average for low-income housing units per capita.”�

ICP filed a similar lawsuit today against the Town of Flower Mound, and has other housing lawsuits pending against the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, and the owners of an apartment complex in the City of Irving. Each of those lawsuits also alleges discrimination in providing low-income housing.

The MHA is governed by an independent board of directors and is not part of the City of McKinney’s annual budget

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