Title
Consider/Discuss/Act on a Recommendation to City Council for a Resolution to rename McKinney Green Gardens located on the southwest corner of Gabe Nesbitt Community Park next to the city water tower.
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
MEETING DATE: March 12, 2026
DEPARTMENT: Parks & Recreation
CONTACT: Amy Kinkade, Director of Parks & Recreation
RECOMMENDED PARK BOARD 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 has 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 the City Council for consideration, in accordance with the guidelines set forth by City Council.
• Generally, a name(s) should be selected based on the following: Outstanding and/or predominant geographical or physical features of the land; Outstanding and/or predominant historical features of significance; 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, Agri-life 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 materials at the garden.
• Environmental stewardship is practiced at the gardens through the use of rainwater collection barrels, low to no use of herbicides, and waterwise planting.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY:
• N/A
BOARD OR COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION:
• N/A