Title
Consider/Discuss/Act on a Resolution to Rename Green Park Located on the Southwest Corner of Gabe Nesbitt Community Park Next to the City Water Tower, as Recommended by the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Advisory Board
Summary
COUNCIL GOAL: Enhance the Quality of Life in McKinney
(5.1: Create affordable recreational and cultural arts activities for all ages throughout the city)
(5.3: Develop sustainable quality of life improvements within the City of McKinney)
(5.4: Promote environmental stewardship initiatives)
(5.5: Enhance connectivity to parks & civic facilities, schools/education centers, libraries, health care providers, commercial corridors, etc.)
MEETING DATE: May 5, 2026
DEPARTMENT: Parks and Recreation
CONTACT: Amy Kinkade, Director of Parks & Recreation
RECOMMENDED CITY COUNCIL ACTION: Approval of the Recommendation
ITEM SUMMARY:
• This 1-acre garden is nestled in the southwest corner of Gabe Nesbitt Park
• The garden was designed to be a demonstration garden of trees and shrubs but as expanded and transformed into a diversity of native plants and vegetation for pollinators and monarch butterfly habitat.
• The City’s naming policy requires that the Park Board provide a name or names to City Council for consideration, in accordance with the guidelines set forth by City Council
• On March 12, 2026, the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Board approved the recommendation for City Council to consider renaming the park.
• Generally, a name(s) should be selected based on the following: Outstanding and/or predominant geographical or physical features of the land; Contributions of land for a park site; or in honor of a community/state leader or hero.
• To accurately reflect the current theme, native vegetation, and bring awareness to the Monarch Butterfly initiative of the City of McKinney, it is proposed that the name be changed from McKinney Green Gardens to Monarch Gardens.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
• The garden was a collaborative project with McKinney Environment Services, AgriLife Extension Services, and Parks and Recreation in 2019.
• Environmental Services conducts monthly volunteer workdays, educational lecture series, and manages a little library with environmental education materials at the gardens.
• The Blackland Prairie Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist provides volunteer services and plant materials to the garden.
• Environmental stewardship is practiced at the gardens though the use of rainwater collection barrels, low to no use of herbicides, and waterwise planting.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY:
• N/A
BOARD OR COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION:
• Parks, Recreation and Open Space Advisory Board recommends approval of park name change to Monarch Gardens.