McKinney City Council Approves Rezoning for Senior Living and Commercial Projects

The McKinney City Council held a significant meeting on August 19, 2025, where two key rezoning requests were discussed, both aimed at enhancing local commercial and residential offerings.

The first item on the agenda involved a request to rezone approximately 8 acres from Planned Development (PD) to a C-2 Local Commercial District. This property, located east of North Custer Road, has recently been improved by reclaiming land from the floodplain, making it more suitable for development. City staff expressed support for the rezoning, noting that it aligns with the comprehensive plan for the Northridge District and would facilitate commercial services that benefit nearby residential areas. The council unanimously approved the request, signaling a positive step towards expanding local business opportunities.

The second item was a more contentious proposal to rezone 3.685 acres for a multifamily senior living development. The applicant, Palladium, aims to create a 109-unit complex specifically for residents aged 62 and older. While the concept aligns with the city’s urban living goals, city staff raised concerns about several deviations from standard development regulations, particularly regarding parking and landscaping. The proposed changes included reducing the required parking spaces and altering the landscaping plan, which staff argued could compromise the quality of the development.

Despite these concerns, the developer emphasized the urgent need for affordable senior housing in McKinney, highlighting that there are currently no affordable options within a three-mile radius. They presented a compelling case for the project, noting that the proposed rents would be significantly lower than existing senior housing options in the area. However, some residents expressed surprise at the proposal, indicating that they were not previously aware of the plans.

The council ultimately decided to continue discussions on this second rezoning request, reflecting the need for further community engagement and consideration of the proposed deviations from standard practices. The outcomes of these discussions will be crucial in shaping McKinney’s approach to balancing development with community needs.

As McKinney continues to grow, these decisions underscore the city’s commitment to addressing both commercial and residential needs, particularly for its senior population. The council's actions will play a vital role in determining how effectively the city can meet the demands of its residents while fostering a vibrant community.