Plano North | August 2023

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PLANO NORTH EDITION

VOLUME 9, ISSUE 12 AUG. 19SEPT. 18, 2023

EDUCATION EDITION 2023

STARTING A PIPELINE

Go Go Curry brings Japanese food to Plano

Legacy Hall set to host a Labor Day Luau

EDUCATION EDITION 2023

District data

From left, Courtney Dryre speaks to Sigler Elementary School employees Alesha Love, Kim Edwards and Lindsey Shellstrom during a July 28 Plano ISD job fair. (Michael Crouchley/Community Impact)

Plano ISD launches new program to help address stang issues unique to our district,” said Stefani Ramos, PISD director of human ser- vices. “What we’re looking at now is how to think outside the box.” with long-term substitutes. The QuEST program saw the dis- trict partnering with Indiana Wes- leyan University to help graduating seniors and PISD sta become teach- ers in the district. BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY

Edmond’s Burgers serves home-cooked comforts

Pull the newest teaser from CC Libraries

Plano ISD is getting creative to help combat teacher stang issues. More than 13% of teachers in the state left the profession between fall 2021 and fall 2022, according to an April 20 report from the Texas Educa- tion Agency. “We see shortages across the dis- trict, across the area and across the state—it’s not something that’s

The district’s latest idea for teacher recruitment is the Quality Education for Successful Teaching, or QuEST, program, which launched in June. PISD had 173 teaching vacancies in January, when the program was announced, 125 of which were lled

The program is already seeing results, said Sherri Eppler, PISD coor- dinator of certication and education pathways. QuEST’s inaugural cohort CONTINUED ON 20

FISCAL YEAR (FY) 2023-2024 RECOMMENDED BUDGET

The Fiscal Year 2023-2024 City Manager’s Recommended Budget is the financial roadmap for the City of Plano over the coming year. It reflects Plano's values and balances the needs of our community with available resources. Your local government is committed to Sustainable Excellence. We are transitioning to a larger focus on infrastructure maintenance, commercial and corporate redevelopment, and long-term revenue sustainability. The budget focuses on the five value-based priorities that keep Plano the City of Excellence. These priorities are: Quality Infrastructure, Service Demands and Programs, Financial Policies, People and Affordability.

The City is offering the same high-value programs and services our citizens and businesses expect. No new programs or services are included in this year's budget.

SERVICE DEMANDS/ PROGRAMS

For additional information regarding the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Recommended Budget and Community Investment Program, visit Plano.gov/RecommendedBudget . If you have questions or comments, email AskPlano@Plano.gov . Plano continues to have one of the hottest housing markets in the North Texas area, which increases the value of many Plano families’ largest asset. Residential property value increases are capped at 10% for tax calculations. Homeowners are eligible for the statutory maximum 20% homestead exemption. If you're 65 and older, or disabled, with the property tax freeze applied to your property, you will see no increase in the city portion of your property tax bill. As an employer, we must be competitive at attracting and retaining our greatest asset, our people. Our staff provide a high level of customer service, and quality programs and services guided by our organizational values. Like all other businesses, we are dealing with a tight labor market and increasing health care costs. The budget includes a 3% salary increase, training and equipment.

YOUR LOCAL GOVERNMENT IS COMMITTED TO SUSTAINABLE EXCELLENCE.

AFFORDABILITY

The City of Plano is a maturing city. We have prioritized the maintenance and repair of our assets to make sure our community stays vibrant and attractive. We will continue to maintain City assets at a high level and be proactive in providing needed repairs. The Proposed Community Invest- ment Program (CIP) includes $340 million worth of projects during FY 2023-2024. This balanced budget continues to follow budget practices that allow Plano to hold a AAA bond rating, saving interest costs. These practices include maintaining reserves, funding liabilities annually, paying cash for maintenance items, sales tax cap policy and treating our enterprise funds like a business.

QUALITY INFRASTRUCTURE

PEOPLE

FINANCIAL POLICIES

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Listen to the City’s monthly podcast at InsidePlano.com Sign up for weekly news update from the City of Plano at Plano.gov/News

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Property Tax Exemptions

20% Homestead Exemption Anyone who owns a home in Plano can use a homestead exemption on one property.

If you’re a Homeowner in Plano, you receive a >

$375,000

Homestead Exemption Appraised Value

Appraised Value

x 20%

Total Deduction - $75,000

Total Deduction = $75,000 New Taxable Property Value $40,000 Senior/Disability Exemption Homeowners who are 65 and over, or disabled, can get an additional property tax exemption.

= $300,000

If you’re a Senior or have a Disability, you receive an additional >

- $40,000 $300,000

Senior/disability Exemption Taxable Property Value with Homestead Exemption

= $260,000

Taxable Home Value

Age 65 and Older or Disabled Tax Freeze Homeowners 65 and over, or disabled, can apply for a tax freeze on their City of Plano taxes. Once frozen, taxes on that home cannot increase as long as you own and live in it. The taxes on your home can go below the tax freeze, but will never go higher as long as you live in that home unless you improve your home. Improvements are things like adding a garage or a bedroom. Your tax freeze will adjust to reflect improvements.

If you’re 65 Years & Over, or Disabled, you also receive >

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THIS ISSUE

ABOUT US Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today. We have expanded to include hundreds of team members and have created our own software platform and printing facility. CI delivers 35+ localized editions across Texas to more than 2.5 million residential mailboxes. MARKET TEAM GENERAL MANAGER Christine Ortega EDITOR Michael Crouchley REPORTERS Dustin Butler, Jonathan Perriello, Connor Pittman GRAPHIC DESIGNER David Bravo Moreno ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Scott Fritsche, Taffy Pavey METRO LEADERSHIP PUBLISHER Leanne Libby MANAGING EDITOR William C. Wadsack MANAGING COPY EDITOR Beth Marshall ART PRODUCTION MANAGER Chelsea Peters CONTACT US 7460 Warren Parkway, Ste. 160 Frisco, TX 75034 • 214-618-9001 CI CAREERS communityimpact.com/careers PRESS RELEASES plnnews@communityimpact.com ADVERTISING plnads@communityimpact.com Learn more at communityimpact.com/advertising EMAIL NEWSLETTERS communityimpact.com/newsletter SUPPORT US Join your neighbors by giving to the CI Patron program. Funds support our journalistic mission to provide trusted, local news in your community. Learn more at communityimpact.com/cipatron

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH

FROM CHRISTINE: Hello, Community Impact readers! I am excited to introduce myself as the new general manager of our Plano publications. I just started with CI in July and am so excited to help bring you the kind of stories you're not going to get anywhere else. If you have suggestions for future stories you'd like to see in the paper, tips on local restaurants I should try or anything else, please feel free to email me anytime at cortega@communityimpact.com. It's a great time to be a part of the vibrant city of Plano. Christine Ortega, GENERAL MANAGER

FROM MICHAEL: Teacher staffing has been a major issue across the region ever since the COVID-19 pandemic. Districts across Texas have had to turn to long-term substitutes or other solutions to fill teaching vacancies. To help alleviate staffing shortages, PISD partnered with online college Indiana Wesleyan University to help streamline the certification process for those involved with Plano ISD—as students or staff members. Make sure to check out our front-page story to see how the district is combating staffing issues, and how those issues are affecting students and parents. Michael Crouchley, EDITOR

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March and is set for completion March 1 of next year, according to a ling with the Texas Department of Licensing and Reg- ulation. Hideaway Pizza’s menu includes salads, sandwiches, baked pastas, pizzas and more, according to the restaurant’s website. The company operates 23 loca- tions across Oklahoma and Arkansas, and also has a location planned for McKinney in early 2024. www.hideawaypizza.com 6 The Alley is set to open in Plano later this year, according to signage on the building’s door. The coee shop will be located at 8240 Preston Road, Ste. 177. The Alley serves various teas and other beverages, along with pastries. The store specializes in boba and fruit teas. www.the-alley.us RELOCATIONS 7 Alphagraphics is relocating one of its Plano locations later this year, owner Craig Girard said. The store located at 5890 Preston Road, Ste. 124, is set to move to 8700 Preston Road, Ste. 582. Girard said the store is scheduled to relocate in early September. Alphagraph- ics provides quick printing services for business cards, postcards, brochures, 1 4 T H ST.

NOW OPEN 1 Go Go Curry opened in a new location at 8240 Preston Road, Ste. 175, Plano. The restaurant held a grand opening event June 24, according to a Facebook post from the company. The restaurant serves a Japanese-style brown curry originating from the city of Kanazawa. The curry is served with a variety of meats, toppings and rice. Go Go Curry has several locations in New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts. The Plano lo- cation is the rst in Texas. 972-294-5350. www.gogocurryamerica.com 2 The Dolly Llama Wae Master opened in Plano in late July, a compa- ny spokesperson said. The Los Ange- les-based chain serves several varieties of waes covered in toppings that include ice cream, chocolate syrup, fruit, cereal, Nutella, nuts and more. Dolly Llama also has various specialty shakes. The restaurant is located at 8400 Preston Road, Ste. 150. The Dolly Llama has four other Texas locations, including one in Dallas. 469-287-2002. www.thedollyllamaus.com P L A N O P K W Y . DNT TOLL

3 Innity Liquor, Beer & Wine opened in new locations in Plano and Dallas, owner Gaurav Vashist said. The Plano store, located at 3115 W. Parker Road, opened in June, while the Dallas location at 7606 Greenville Ave. opened in late July. Innity oers top-end liquor, beer and wine, Vashist said. 469-443-0035 4 Sushi Hana held a grand opening on Aug. 1, a company spokesperson said. The business, which is located at 2109 W. Parker Road, Ste. 104, opened Aug. 1. The menu oers a wide selec- tion of sushi rolls with vegetarian and meat options. The menu includes classic rolls—such as the California roll, tuna roll and eel roll—as well as special, baked, deep-fried and no-rice rolls. The restaurant also oers several soup, noodle and rice dishes. 214-600-3197. www.sushihanatexas.com. COMING SOON 5 Hideaway Pizza is opening in Plano, according to signage on the building. The restaurant is set to be located at 5410 SH 121, near Eddie V’s Prime Seafood. Con- struction on Hideaway’s building began in 15THST.

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8 Walmart will update and remodel 28 more stores across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, including the Neighborhood Market at 8040 Independence Parkway, Plano, in 2023, continuing an initiative that started last year. All remodeled stores will oer pickup, delivery and express delivery in under two hours after completion, according to a Walmart news release. Additional renovations include new LED light xtures, new paint and signage, increased self-checkout lanes and staed registers and a new grab- and-go section. These updates will also make the Walmart+ membership program

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available to more customers. Walmart+ oers free shipping with no minimum required, free delivery from stores with a $35 minimum and a fuel discount. Each remodeled store will also feature a newly painted mural. 972-396-6401. www.walmart.com/store/2995-plano-tx CLOSINGS 9 Golden Boy Coee & Wine Bar in Plano has closed. The coee shop, which was located at 5880 SH 121, Ste. 102A, closed June 25 with no plans to reopen, according to an Instagram post. The Plano location opened in 2021 and served coee, wine and food in a laid-back environment. The Golden Boy location in Denton remains open with a tattoo studio, a bar and an event venue included in the space. 940-514-1988 10 Sherry Stephanie Dance & Mu- sic closed in Plano, according to a posting on the building’s door. The performing arts school was located at 8232 Preston Road, Ste. 120. The school oered dance, music and theater classes, and still has a location in The Colo- ny, according to the school’s website. www.sherrystephanie.com FEATURED IMPACT RENOVATIONS The facilities at Jack Carter Park are about to undergo a nal phase of renovations that will address the restroom facility, athletic elds and irrigation. The park is located at 2800 Maumelle Drive. The project will cost about $3.7 million to complete with the bid awarded to North Rock Construction LLC during the July 24 Plano City Council meeting. Funding for the improvements come from the 2022-23 Park Improvements Community Investment Program and Park Fee Program, according to a memo given to council.

Several areas of the park will be addressed with the allocated funding, including renovations for athletic elds, lighting and irrigation, a new restroom building, replacement and extension of the park’s trail network, retaining walls, tree planting, and general site repair. www.plano.gov/1458/Jack-Carter-Park

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NOW OPEN 1 A new Petco location at the corner of Preston Road and Park Boulevard opened in July, a company spokesper- son said. The new store is located at 4836 W Park Blvd., Ste. 245, Plano. The pet store chain oers a variety of products for dogs, cats, sh, birds and more. Petco also has a pet pharmacy, dog groom- ing, veterinary, dog training and adoption services. 972-377-6723. 2 7 Brew opened on the border of Plano and Carrollton on July 31, a company spokesperson said. The coee stand, located at 3040 E. Hebron Parkway, Carrollton, oers a variety of hot and cold coees, teas, smoothies, shakes and more. The Arkansas-based company has 18 locations in Texas, including a stand in open. The Plano business, located at 6509 W. Park Blvd., Ste. 440, opened in May, a company spokesperson said. The restaurant’s menu includes a variety of American cuisine, including wings, burgers, nachos and other “park food.” The drink menu includes several specialty Fort Worth. www.7brew.com 3 The Park Bar & Grill is now

cocktails and shots. There is also a happy hour every day from 4-7 p.m. with special Friday night events. 214-900-5352. www.theparkplano.com COMING SOON 4 Ocials with data company CoreWeave announced plans to open a $1.6 billion data center in Plano, according to a July 25 news release. The 450,000-square-foot facility will be located in an existing building at 1000 Coit Road. The company expects the facility to be fully operational by Dec. 31. CoreWeave is a specialized cloud provider that focuses on “high-performance cloud solutions for articial intelligence, machine learning, pixel streaming and other emerg- ing technologies,” CEO Michael Intrator said in the release. Plano City Council approved property tax abatements for the data center through 2031, according to an agenda item. www.coreweave.com 5 Crunch Fitness is expected to open in Plano this fall, according to a news release from the company. Crunch Fitness, which will be located 1701 Preston Road, will oer group tness classes, cardio and strength training equipment, tanning

beds, a sauna, and more. In the release, CEO Tony Scrimale said he is looking for- ward to bringing the exciting and inclusive Crunch workout experience with the residents surrounding the newest location in Plano. With “top-quality equipment, amazing classes and personal training,” he said there is something for everyone at an “unbeatable value.” Prospective members can visit the website to reserve memberships at discounted rates prior to the gym’s opening. 214-910-1660. www.crunchplano.com 6 Vivas Bakery , a Venezuelan-style pastry shop, is opening in mid-Septem- ber in The Shops at Willow Bend food court in Plano. The bakery will be located at 6121 W. Park Blvd. Owner Sara Vivas said she also runs Arepa Station in the mall’s food court in Suite 108. Vivas has been baking for her friends for years and wanted to bring the treats to the com- munity. Vivas specializes in custom cakes, but will also oer cupcakes, cookies, cake pops and various Venezuelan desserts. She currently sells pastries from the kitchen inside of Arepa Station’s , but the bakery will allow her to have a dedicated kitchen and a storefront. 786-806-1660. www.vivasbakery.com

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NAME CHANGES 7 A Plus Beauty Supply in Plano is now under a new name and management after an April 24 buyout. The store, located at 1100 W. Parker Road, Ste. 410, Plano is now a second location for Odaa Beauty Supply , manager Herko Gonfa said. While most of the products have remained the same, the inventory has increased. Gonfa said he strives to be an active community member. He helps breast cancer survivors who may not be able to aord wigs and hairpieces. He said nothing makes him happier than supporting the community. 214-501-3126. RENOVATIONS 8 Renovations at the former Club at Los Rios golf course are set to begin soon, Plano Trail System Planner Lance Knox said. According to the city’s website, the city purchased the land, located at 1700 Country Club Drive, in 2014 and

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began removing the former golf course infrastructure, such as signage and the golf cart path, in 2020. Phase 1, which adds just over 2 miles of trails to the city’s system of recreation trails, is set to begin in September and wrap up in March 2024. The project is set to cost $2.8 million, according to documents led with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. In addition, Knox said the trail will connect the Cottonwood Creek trails to existing trails at Bob Woodru Park, crossing several creeks and waterways along the way. www.plano.gov/1473/Los- Rios-Park 9 Walmart will update and remodel 28 more stores across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, including the Neighborhood Market at 3100 Custer Road, Plano, in 2023, continuing an initiative that started last year. All remodeled stores will oer pickup, delivery and express delivery in un- der two hours after completion, according to a Walmart news release. Additional renovations include new LED light xtures, new paint and signage, checkout lane updates and more. These updates will also make the Walmart+ membership program available to more customers. www.walmart.com FEATURED IMPACT RENOVATIONS Renovations are underway at Katy Trail Ice House Outpost in Plano, General Manager Kyle Whelan said. The restaurant, located at 4700 W. Park Blvd., is expanding its patio space by about 6,000 square feet, adding seating for around 300 guests to its beer garden on the building’s west side. The patio will be complete with a tiki bar, outdoor bathrooms and 22 trees, Whelan said. Inside, a new re pit will be installed, and two walk-in coolers are being added to the kitchen. The men’s bathroom will also be renovated. Whelan added the patio renovations should be complete by the end of

October barring construction delays. Some of the parking lot spaces are coned o for construction equipment and hardware, but the restaurant will stay fully operational during the project. 972-599-9000. www.katyoutpost.com

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TODO LIST

August & September events

More namaste.

SEPT. 3

GO TO A LABOR DAY WEEKEND LUAU LEGACY HALL

Residents can wrap their summer up at Legacy Hall’s fourth annual Labor Day Weekend luau at the Lexus Box Garden at Legacy Hall. The event includes hula performances with re dancers and drummers, a limbo competition and pig roast along with tiki-themed cocktails and live music, 2-9 p.m. $5-$65. 7800 Windrose Ave., Plano. 972-846-4255. bit.ly/3rLP9R0

event begins. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. 7501-B Independence Parkway, Plano. 972-208-8000. https://plano-cep.bc.sirsidynix.net/ event/japanese-rock-gardens-2 SEPTEMBER 5 ATTEND A POOL PARTY The Texas Pool is celebrating the last days of summer with a Labor Day pool party. Coolers with food and non- alcoholic beverages are allowed. 2-6 p.m. $10. 901 Springbrook Drive, Plano. 972-881-8392. www.visitplano.com/event/labor-day- Dark Hour Escape is hosting its Monster Club Misadventures escape room series at Dark Hour Haunted House. Guests will be tasked with nding a lost friend in this escape experience. The game requires two to six players ages 6 or older and at least one must be able to stoop and crawl. All games are private and parties will not be mixed together. 4:30–9:30p.m. $35-$120. Dark Hour Haunted House, 701 Taylor Drive, Plano. 469-298-0556. www.darkhourhauntedhouse.com 13 CLEAR THE MIND Sahaja Yoga Meditation is hosting a 10 minute guided meditation session at Liberty Recreation Center. Sahaja Yoga is a unique method focused on self- realization, according to the organization. Walk-ins are welcome and yoga mats are not required. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Liberty Recreation Center, 2601 Glencli Drive, Plano. 972-235-2606. bit.ly/3O3yAHq 15 THROUGH 24 CATCH A SHOW The Art Centre Theatre is performing Beyond the Surface, an original production about a man who must decide whether to forgive the person responsible for his brother’s death. Showtimes vary. $18 (online), $20 (door). pool-party-2023 8 GET SCARED 1400 Summit Ave., Ste. E, Plano. 972-881-3228. bit.ly/44YQbb3

COMPILED BY DUSTIN BUTLER AND JONATHAN PERRIELLO AUGUST 24 ROCK OUT AT A CONCERT Southern rock band Black Stone Cherry is performing at the Lexus Box Garden at Legacy Hall. Earlier this year the band revealed their new song, “Out of Pocket,” which is their rst single since their 2020 album, “The Human Condition.” Guests are encouraged to arrive early and enjoy craft cocktails and food from 20 eateries. 7 p.m. $10-$360. 7800 Windrose Ave., Plano. 972-846-4255. www.visitplano.com/ DONE BY KIDS North Texas Performing Arts is putting on a performance of “Mean Girls Jr.” at the Courtyard Theater. The show is based on the hit Broadway musical, which was based on the 2004 movie. Showtimes vary. $12-$25. 1509 H Ave., Plano. 972-941-5600. https://ntpa.org/event/ mean-girls-jr-plano 30 SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL SOCCER CLUB event/black-stone-cherry 25 THROUGH SEPT. 2 SEE A BROADWAY SHOW The Lexus Box Garden at Legacy Hall is hosting a watch party for FC Dallas’ game against St. Louis City SC. Seating is rst come, rst serve, so registration does not guarantee access. Those who wish to attend are encouraged to come early. 6:30 p.m. Free. 7800 Windrose Ave., Plano. 972-846-4255. www.visitplano.com/event/fc-dallas-vs- philadelphia-watch-party 31 LEARN ABOUT JAPANESE ROCK GARDENS Learn about the history and philosophy of Japanese rock gardens at the Davis Library. Attendees will learn to identify features and look at various rock gardens around the world before making a miniature rock garden to take home for themselves. Tickets are available 30 minutes before the

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Find more or submit Plano events at communityimpact.com/event-calendar. Event organizers can submit local events online to be considered for the print edition. Submitting details for consideration does not guarantee publication.

PLANO NORTH EDITION • AUGUST 2023

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

TRANSPORTATION UPDATES

STACY RD.

2 Park Boulevard and K Avenue inter- section improvements This project is modifying the signals, removing road humps, maximizing left turn lane lengths and adding right-turn lanes on Park Boulevard from Coit Road to Jupiter Road. Dual left-turn lanes were installed at Alma Drive, Coit Road, Custer Road and Jupiter Road. Only improve- ments at the intersection of Park Boule- vard and K Avenue are yet to be complet- ed. The completion date was postponed from July to September. Timeline: October 2020-September 2023 Cost: $4.2 million Funding Sources: city of Plano, Regional Toll Revenue, Collin County 3 Parker Road Corridor Intersection Improvements Crews are making improvements to the intersections of A Parker Road and Coit Road, and B Parker Road and Alma Drive. The project includes the widening of street pavement, improvements to pe- destrian ramps and traffic signal modifica- tions. The Coit Road intersection will have double left-turn lanes added on Parker Road, and the Alma Drive intersection will have a right-turn lane added on both roads. The completion date was post- poned from January to May of next year.

Timeline: July 2023-May 2024 Cost: $2.9 million Funding Sources: city of Plano, regional toll revenue, Collin County 4 Independence Parkway Repairs Crews will be making pavement and sidewalk repairs on Independence Parkway from Spring Creek Parkway to SH 121 in both directions. One lane will remain closed to traffic at all times, with a second lane to be closed daily between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Timeline: September 2023-September 2025 Cost: $8,821,494 Funding source: city of Plano 5 Midway Road Repairs Crews will be making pavement and sidewalk repairs on Midway Road from Park Boulevard to Spring Creek Parkway in both directions. One lane will remain closed to traffic at all times, with a second lane to be closed daily between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Timeline: September 2023-December 2024 Cost: $2,730,300 Funding source: city of Plano

PLANO

DNT TOLL

MCDERMONTT RD.

SRT TOLL

HEDGCOXE RD

TENNYSON PKWY.

LEGACY D R

LOS RIOS BLVD.

W . S P R I N G C R E E K P K W Y.

WINDHAVEN PKWY.

PARKER RD.

PARK BLVD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

PGBT TOLL

COMPILED BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY ONGOING PROJECTS 1 Intersection pavement, median and traffic signal improvements Four intersections across Plano will be receiving improvements. The intersec- tions of A McDermott Road and Coit Road, B Legacy Drive and Hedgcoxe Road, C West Spring Creek Parkway

and Windhaven Parkway and D Jupiter Road and Los Rios Boulevard will all be included in the project. The intersections will be getting additional westbound and eastbound lanes, traffic signal updates, new pavement markings and pedestrian crossing updates. Timeline: August 2023-May 2024 Cost: $2.8 million Funding Sources: city of Plano bond

ALL INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED AS OF JULY 31. NEWS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT THESE OR OTHER LOCAL TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS? EMAIL US AT PLNNEWS@COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM.

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Water and Street Work Along Parker Road Progresses Portions of Parker Road are more than 40 years old, so this well-traveled street needs some love. LEGACY DR TENNYSON PKWY

SPRING CREEK PKWY

WINDHAVEN PKWY

PARKER RD

PARK BLVD

CURRENT PROJECTS 2 arterial pavement repair projects – West city limits to Preston Road and East city limits to Country Place Drive. Est. completion: Dec. 2023* 14TH ST 1

2. West asphalt overlay – West city limits to Parkwood Boulevard. Est. completion: Nov. 2023* 3. East asphalt overlay – East city limits to Spring Creek Parkway. Est. completion: Nov. 2023* 4. Water main replacement – Independence Parkway to Country Place Drive. Est. completion: Summer 2024* PRESIDENT GEORGE BUSH TURNPIKE PLANO PKWY 2 3 4

*Dates subject to change

The most cost-effective and least disruptive approach has been taken, but commutes may still be impacted. 2024 and beyond will bring intersection improvements, more asphalt overlays and bridge work. Once finished, Parker Road will be a much smoother drive.

Thank you for your patience and please drive safely. Plano.gov/RoadConstruction

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

GOVERNMENT $18B tax relief package projected to trim bills for all homeowners

Tax relief The Texas Legislature approved an $18 billion plan to cut property taxes for homeowners and businesses. The tax cuts will show up on this year’s bills if approved by voters during the Nov. 7 election. BREAKING DOWN YOUR TAX BILL

The equation

BY HANNAH NORTON

1,014 public school districts, accord- ing to the Texas Taxpayers and Research Association. The state is expected to spend roughly $5.3 billion to reimburse schools for the tax cuts. School district tax rate compression Lawmakers also set aside $12.7 bil- lion to “compress,” or reduce, school district maintenance and operations taxes, which make up the majority of a homeowner’s tax bill, by 10.7 cents for the 2023-24 school year. The author of

Texas lawmakers passed a sweep- ing plan to cut property taxes on the average home by over $1,200. The July 13 passage of Senate Bills 2 and 3 closed out the second special legislative session of the year and brought an end to seven months of negotiations. The $18 billion package includes two bills and a constitutional amendment. For the tax cuts to show up on this

Taxable value The value of a property that can be taxed

$331,000 Average base home value in Texas

Local tax rate Including school district, city, county, utility district, etc.

Homestead exemption

This is the portion of a primary home’s base value that is exempt from taxes. Local municipalities may oer additional exemptions.

CURRENT $40K exemption Value that cannot be taxed

$331,000 Average home value in Texas $331,000 Average home value in Texas

$291K Taxable value

year’s tax bill, Texans must approve the constitutional amendment

“SMALL BUSINESSES OPERATE ON THIN MARGINS, SO IN AN ECONOMY WHERE EVERY PENNY COUNTS, THIS TAX CUT WILL PROVIDE SIGNIFICANT SAVINGS TO BUSINESS OWNERS.” ANNIE SPILMAN, TEXAS DIRECTOR OF THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES

NEW $100K exemption Value that cannot be taxed

$231K Taxable value

the Senate bills, Sen. Paul Betten- court, RHouston, said taxes will decrease by 23.8% on average. Savings will vary by school district, but all of Texas’ 5.7 million home-

School district tax rate compression

during the Nov. 7 general election. The 31-member Senate unani- mously approved the legislation,

Homeowners will pay reduced taxes to their local school districts. ISD tax rates will decrease by 10.7 cents . This is in addition to the 10.98 cents compression passed as part of the budget. For example, for a $300K home , decreasing the school district tax rate by 10.7 cents would cut an average tax bill by $321. The state of Texas will distribute $12.7 billion to schools .

while it got a few dissenting votes in the 149-member House. Gov. Greg Abbott signed the bills July 22. SB 2 becomes law if the con- stitutional amendment is approved, while SB 3 goes into eect Jan. 1. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said the legisla- tion will save the average homeowner $1,250-$1,450 on their 2023 tax bill based on the average Texas home valuation of $331,000. Here’s what each portion of the tax relief plan means for Texans. Homestead exemption Texas homeowners can apply for a $40,000 exemption from school property taxes on their primary home. Seniors and people with dis- abilities are eligible for an additional $10,000 exemption. Under SB 2, homeowners can receive a $100,000 exemption, with $110,000 for seniors and people with disabilities. Additionally, people whose homes are worth $100,000 or less will not pay any property taxes to their local school districts. This will largely impact homeowners in rural areas. The average home value is less than $100,000 in 397 of the state’s

NONHOMESTEAD APPRAISAL CAP

owners are expected to benet. Schools will receive money from the state to ensure they do not lose revenue as local tax rates fall. However, overall school funding will not change. Democrats unsuccessfully pro- posed amendments July 13 to send more money to schools and give teachers a one-time bonus. “Without question, the members in the Senate and House want to give the teachers their pay raise,” Patrick said. “We will have time in the fall, I believe, to give them a permanent raise, and not just a one-time raise.” In September or October, law- makers are expected to return to the capitol to discuss school funding, teacher pay and how to provide students with the best educational opportunities. Nonhomestead appraisal cap To help more property owners, the Legislature introduced a three-year, 20% appraisal cap for commercial and nonhomestead residential property worth $5 million or less. This means the value of the property cannot

The new tax relief package includes a nonhomestead appraisal cap, which limits how much certain properties can increase in value annually. The value of property worth $5 million or less cannot increase by more than 20% year-over-year . The cap applies to all nonhomesteaded property , including second homes and commercial property.

Approximately 13 million properties will qualify.

BUSINESS FRANCHISE TAX EXEMPTION The new law also amends the state business franchise tax, which is calculated based on individual businesses’ circumstances. Businesses that make less than $2.47 million annually will no longer have to pay the tax. Roughly 67,000 small and midsize businesses will be exempt from the tax. Collectively, qualifying business owners will save around $300K each year .

SOURCES: TEXAS COMPTROLLER OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS, TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINECOMMUNITY IMPACT

increase by more than 20% per year. The cap goes into eect in 2024 and runs through 2026, at which point lawmakers can choose to extend, modify or stop the program. Business franchise tax exemption SB 3 eliminates the state franchise

tax for companies that make less than $2.47 million per year. The tax is calculated depending on individual businesses’ circumstances. Roughly 67,000 small and midsize businesses will no longer have to pay the tax or submit a “no tax due” form, Bettencourt said.

PLANO NORTH EDITION • AUGUST 2023

CITY & COUNTY

News from Collin College, Collin County & Plano

Plano commission OKs plan for new life sciences development

BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY

PLANO A 200-acre, $3 billion development planned for the former Electronic Data Systems headquarters in northwest Plano is one step closer to breaking ground. The Plano Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously voted to approve zoning for the development that would transform the vacant space on Parkwood Boulevard into a massive life sciences center during its July 17 meeting. The matter was scheduled to go before council Aug. 14, which was after this edition’s press time. The big picture: Dallas-based invest- ment firm NexPoint is calling the project the Texas Research Quarter, and plans include:

LEGACY DR.

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TENNYSON PKWY.

The development would be more than 200 acres. (Rendering courtesy NexPoint)

of life science because it’s a hugely emerging business.” The development was scheduled to go before council Aug. 14, which was after this edition’s press time. Quote of note: “A project of this size, this scope and this degree of economic impact ... is an opportunity for the city of Plano that we dare not pass up,” Commissioner J. Michael Brounoff said.

NexPoint President Frank Zac- canelli said the center could create more than 30,000 jobs at full build- out, many of which focusing on cell and gene therapy, with the ultimate aim of building an industry “hub” in North Texas. “What we’re trying to do is build a hub that would be a gateway from the East Coast to the West Coast,” he said. “In North Texas, we could have 10 [million] to 15 million square feet

• Over 4 million square feet of lab, office and therapeutic production space • 775 midrise residential units • A 9.5-acre park • A hotel NexPoint acquired the 91-acre former Electronic Data Systems campus in 2018. The district would incorporate 109 additional acres in the Legacy neighborhood, according to a news release from the company.

Plano City Council will meet at 7 p.m. Aug. 28 and Sept. 11. Meetings are held at 1520 K Ave., Plano, and can be streamed online. 972-941-7000. www.plano.gov Plano ISD board of trustees will meet at 6 p.m. Aug. 22, Sept. 5 and 19 at the PISD Administration Center, 2700 W. 15th St., Plano. 469-752-8100. www.pisd.edu MEETINGS WE COVER HIGHLIGHTS PLANO City Council members approved changes to three plans that help guide city planners in identifying future park spaces, trails and facilities needs. Updated map elements, such as the designation for potential parks or open spaces in the city, were included in the refresh along with information about future needs for new and existing facilities. COLLIN COLLEGE The school launched a program to help students prepare for entry-level lab technician jobs, according to a July 27 news release. The Biotechnology Boot Camp will include paid tuition and additional funding for a credentialing exam. Tuition for the courses and accompanying labs will be paid for by a U.S. Economic Development Administration grant.

Market records median sales price drop of 5%

Council approves plan for housing funds

Median sales price The median sales price for homes in Collin County saw about a 5.3% decrease year over year in June.

$568,500

June 2022

BY CONNOR PITTMAN

-5.3%

PLANO A plan for over $2 million in federal funding to improve the community and provide housing assistance was greenlit by Plano City Council on July 24. The $2.08 million from the Department of Housing and Urban Development will be available Oct. 1, Housing Community Services Manager Shanette Eaden said. In a nutshell: The city is set to receive nearly $1.48 million in Community Development Block Grants and $605,040 in Home Investment Part- nerships Program funds, she added. Community development grants are targeted at funding housing and social services, officials said. At least 70% of the community grants must impact low- to moderate-income residents in the city.

$539,500

June 2023

New listings Collin County saw a decrease of more than 22% in new listings year over year in June.

BY COLBY FARR

COLLIN COUNTY The demand for Collin County houses continues to rise, even as the area recorded a 5.3% decrease in median sales price year over year in June. The gist: The county saw a median sales price of $539,580 compared to $569,500 in June 2022, according to a Collin County Association of Realtors news release. Despite the price drop, the county’s supply of homes for sale indicates a strong seller’s market. More than two months of supply were available in June. A market is considered balanced when there is a six-month supply of homes for sale, according to the news release.

2,657

June 2022

-22%

2,095

June 2023

SOURCE: COLLIN COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Collin County also saw a 22.7% decrease in new listings, while houses took 19 days longer on average to sell compared to 2022. What else: Plano, Prosper and Rich- ardson saw increases in median sales prices in June compared to the year before, while McKinney, Frisco and Celina saw decreases, according to association data.

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