Election
BY MARY KATHERINE SHAPIRO
Voter Guide
2026
Dates to know
Where to vote
April 20: First day of early voting and last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) April 28: Last day of early voting May 2: Election day
Collin County residents can vote at any polling location during early voting or on election day. Visit www.collincountytx.gov/election for polling locations.
SOURCE: COLLIN COUNTY ELECTIONS OFFICE, TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Only candidates in contested elections are included. Go to county election websites for information on uncontested races.
Mayor
Chris Schulmeister Occupation & experience: Retired–Finance, Allen City Council, Mayor Pro Tem, Economic Development Corporation, All Community Outreach Board www.chrisforallen.org
Dave Shafer Occupation & experience: Private investigator, business owner, Allen City Council 2021–2024, Allen resident www.shaferforallen.com
Why are you running for mayor of Allen?
I’m running because Allen is entering an important transition. As we approach buildout, thoughtful leadership and long-term planning matter more than ever. I want to help guide the city forward by preserving what makes Allen special while preparing responsibly for the future.
Allen is moving from decades of rapid growth into the responsibilities of a mature city. That shift brings new challenges, and it requires steady and experienced leadership. My professional background, years serving the city, and the relationships I have built uniquely position me to help guide Allen forward.
What is the biggest challenge facing the residents of Allen?
The biggest challenge is managing Allen’s transition from rapid growth to long- term sustainability. As buildout approaches, the focus shifts to redevelopment, infrastructure maintenance and financial stability. With the statewide push to reduce property taxes, careful planning and disciplined stewardship will be essential to keeping Allen strong.
The cost of living. Increasing assessed values for property owners has become a struggle. This growth needs to be balanced with a tax rate that provides Allen residents with the level of services they expect. Additionally, managing the cost of water and wastewater impacts the cost of living.
How do you plan to address this issue?
During my six years on council, I voted to reduce the tax rate every year. A 5% homestead exemption was adopted. The level of city services may need to be adjusted, and I will work with city staff and citizens to prioritize services, continuing my efforts toward further tax relief.
It starts with proactive planning and disciplined stewardship. That means maintaining infrastructure before problems grow, encouraging thoughtful redevelopment, and ensuring stable funding for core services like public safety and parks. By planning ahead and making deliberate decisions now, Allen can remain financially strong and well-maintained as it matures.
As the city celebrates its 150th anniversary, what should the community look forward to in the next decade, and how are the city’s leaders working to make it happen? Allen will continue to be recognized as one of the best places in North Texas to live and to do business. City leaders, including staff, are committed to this and understand we must not get complacent. As Mayor, I will see that residents play a part in defining Allen’s future. Allen’s next decade should focus on renewal and reinvestment. Residents can expect continued investment in parks, public spaces, revitalized areas like downtown, and well-maintained infrastructure. By prioritizing public safety and long-term planning, the city can honor its history while building a future that keeps Allen safe and desirable.
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 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.
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