Plano voters face special election for City Council Place 7

The special election for Plano City Council Place 7 will take place on January 31, 2026 following the resignation of Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Julie Holmer, who stepped down to run for Collin County Commissioners Court Precinct 4. On December 19 both Place 7 candidates submitted short biographies and responses to the same questions so voters could directly compare their priorities and approaches.

Colleen Aguilar-Epstein identified support for first responders, infrastructure investment, and moderating approvals for high density projects as top priorities. Shun Thomas emphasized transportation, interagency collaboration, public safety, and neighborhood parks as focal issues. Both candidates framed local services and land use as central to Plano’s immediate policy choices, though they emphasized different strategies to address growth and public safety.

The seat has citywide implications for how the council approaches development approvals and capital planning at a time when Plano and Collin County are managing rapid population growth. A council member who favors stricter oversight of high density approvals can alter project timelines, zoning outcomes, and demands on utilities and roads. Conversely a candidate who prioritizes transportation and park investments may push for capital projects and intergovernmental coordination that change budget allocations and street planning. Public safety and support for first responders featured prominently because personnel and equipment budgets at the municipal level directly affect response times and emergency readiness.

Voter logistics are now critical for residents who want to take part. Early voting runs January 14 through January 27, and the last day to register to vote for this election is December 31. The outcome will determine who represents Place 7 for the remainder of the term and who sits at the table for final votes on zoning, funding for infrastructure, and public safety priorities.

Collin County and Plano election officials will manage the schedule and polling locations. Verify your voter registration and plan to review candidate information so your priorities are reflected in the January 31 result.