McKINNEY, Texas - The McKinney City Council is dealing with an unexpected vacancy in a seat that was just filled.
Chris Thornton announced at last night’s meeting he will not represent District 1.
Thornton, an Air Force veteran, pastor and life-long McKinney resident, was appointed last month after voters recalled La’Shadion Shemwell.
Shemwell clashed with colleagues over racial issues and declared a “Black State of Emergency” in Texas over police shootings.
After reviewing boundaries, Thornton discovered he lives 10 feet and 10 inches outside of District 1 and does not meet the residency requirements.
“District 1 has been in my family. My family has been there for over 120 years. So I hate that I cannot represent District 1. But who knows. You may see my name in the future,” he said.
Council districts are up for re-zoning next year. Thornton is hopeful he will be zoned back into District 1 at that time.
The city council will meet next Monday to fill the vacancy seat again.
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