Title
Consider/Discuss/Act on an Amendment to the License Agreement with Harvest Seed Project Foundation for Improvements to and the Use of Gray Branch Park
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)
MEETING DATE: April 21, 2026
DEPARTMENT: Parks & Recreation
CONTACT: Amy Kinkade, Director of Parks and Recreation
Mark S. Houser, City Attorney
RECOMMENDED CITY COUNCIL ACTION:
• Approval of the Amendment to the License Agreement (Code Compliant version)
ITEM SUMMARY:
• By Resolution dated March 31, 2025, the City Council authorized the City Manager to negotiate a License Agreement for the use of a portion of Gray Branch Park by the Harvest Seed Project Foundation (as Licensee).
• That agreement contained two completion date provisions. This amendment will extend the completion dates for Phase 1 to August 15, 2026 and Phase 2 to April 15, 2027.
• The License Agreement includes, among other things, the planting of crops, the renovation of an existing barn structure for crop planting and processing, an office, kitchen learning center, equipment storage, and a community/educational space. The park property will be improved in two (2) phases--first, the land preparation for planting and irrigating crops; and second--the building and parking lot improvements.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
• Gray Branch Park is 212 acres of city parkland located south of US 380, between Ridge Road and Lake Forest Drive.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY: The Licensee has responsibility for all costs of renovation, operation and repair for the License term (10 years + 5 year extension). There is no use or license fee paid to the City.
BOARD OR COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION: N/A