McKINNEY, Texas — Questions surrounding transparency and accountability in regional transportation funding took center stage during the April 27, 2026 Collin County Commissioners Court meeting, where commissioners examined approximately $30 million in transportation funding that had been directed toward projects supporting the McKinney National Airport, including runway expansion and Spur 399 improvements.
The funding originated through the Regional Transportation Council (RTC), a regional body that helps guide transportation funding decisions across North Texas. These funds are traditionally intended to support roadway improvements, transportation corridors, infrastructure expansion, and long-term planning needed to accommodate the region’s rapid population growth.
At the time, Collin County Commissioner Duncan Webb served as the County’s representative on the RTC and was responsible for advocating for Collin County’s transportation priorities.
During the April 27, 2026 Collin County Commissioners Court meeting, commissioners raised concerns regarding approximately $30 million in transportation funding that had been directed toward airport-related projects. According to information subsequently provided by county officials, members of the Commissioners Court were unaware that the funds had already been released and spent before the matter was publicly discussed before the Court.
The discussion ultimately led the Commissioners Court to vote to remove Commissioner Webb from his position on the Regional Transportation Council.
According to information discussed during the meeting, concerns centered on whether transportation funds intended for regional infrastructure needs had been redirected toward airport-related projects without sufficient transparency or communication with the full Commissioners Court.
Former McKinney Mayor George Fuller attended the meeting and spoke in support of Commissioner Webb. However, the concerns raised by commissioners reflected broader questions about whether the allocation of transportation funding aligned with the priorities of Collin County residents and taxpayers.
The issue extends beyond one project or one vote. Every transportation dollar committed to one initiative is a dollar unavailable for another. As Collin County continues to experience unprecedented growth, residents deserve confidence that infrastructure funding decisions are being made openly, responsibly, and with full public accountability.
The removal of the County’s RTC representative sends a clear message that transparency matters. Taxpayers should not be left learning about major funding decisions only after the money has already been committed and spent.
Residents deserve answers to several important questions:
• When were local officials informed that transportation funds were being directed toward airport-related projects?
• What oversight existed regarding the allocation of these funds?
• Were taxpayers provided a complete and transparent accounting of how these transportation dollars would be used?
• How will future transportation funding decisions be communicated to both elected officials and the public?
The April 27 Commissioners Court discussion highlighted a growing concern shared by many residents throughout McKinney and Collin County: major public decisions must be made in the open, with transparency, accountability, and meaningful public involvement.
As discussions surrounding airport expansion continue, taxpayers should expect nothing less. North Texas Citizens Alliance
