Title
Conduct a Public Hearing and Consider/Discuss/Act on a Project Grant Application Submitted by Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary (4B26-11) in an Amount of Seventy-Two Thousand One Hundred Two and 16/100 Dollars ($72,102.16) for the Installation of an Indoor Bug Adobe Exhibit and Painting, and Restoration of Floor Murals at the Property Located at One Nature Place in McKinney, Texas. This request represents 37% of the Total Project Cost.
Summary
COUNCIL GOAL: 5: Enhance the Quality of Life in McKinney
51: Create affordable recreational and cultural arts activities for all ages throughout the city.
53: Develop sustainable quality of life improvements within
the City of McKinney.
MEETING DATE: July 23, 2026
DEPARTMENT: McKinney Community Development Corporation
CONTACT: Cindy Schneible, President
ITEM SUMMARY:
• McKinney Community Development Corporation will conduct a public hearing on a project grant application submitted by Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary for Exhibition Hall renovations. Project elements include:
o Repainting walls;
o Restoration of floor murals in Museum lobby and multipurpose room; and
o Production and installation of insect-specific display cases for a new Bug Adobe exhibit.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
• Founded in 1967 by Miss Bess Heard, The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary is a natural science exploration center focused on interpreting the natural world for people of all ages.
• The mission of the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary is to bring nature and people together to discover, enjoy, experience, preserve and restore our priceless environment through:
o Educational programs emphasizing appreciation and conservation of nature;
o Preservation of a portion of North Texas land with its native vegetation and wildlife, in as near a natural condition as possible;
o Museum exhibits, examples of natural history, nature-related art works and memorabilia from Founder Bess Heard; and
o Indoor/outdoor nature experiences geared to all age and educational levels.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY:
• The request is eligible for MCDC consideration under Sections 505.151 and 505.152 of the Texas Local Government Code.
• The Heard Science Museum’s most recent grant was awarded in FY25 in an amount of $211,160 for upgrades to four trails.
SUPPORTING MATERIALS:
• Application Packet
• Presentation