You are. Right again. I think. You. I now declare that the plaintiff City Council is convened in open session, that all council members are present with the exception of Council Member Levine. Our first item this evening is canvasing the election results. Lisa, would you please proceed with the canvasing? Absolutely, sir. Everybody should have a canvasing packet at their seats. So the results are from both Denton and Collin counties. And include the certification that they have been checked compared and all ballots tabulated for the special for all ballots tabulated in the special election. Just know that there are 183 982 registered voters in the city of Plano. Of those eligible voters, 10,341 voted, or 5.621% of the eligible voters cast ballots. 160 of those those individuals voted by mail. There were 14 provisional ballots cast and 13 were counted. So now we will move on to the actual canvasing of the election and consideration of the resolution. Consideration of a resolution. Canvasing the election. Results of the special election of the January 31st, 2026 for the election. For a member of Council. Place seven for an unexpired term until the May 27th general election. Declaring the results and resolving all other matters on the subject. So for Council Member Place number seven, Sean Thomas received 6154 votes. Colleen Aguilar Epstein received 4187 votes. And this concludes my report. Thank you. Do I have a motion to adopt the canvass resolution as presented? Mr. mayor, I move that we adopt the resolution as presented. Mayor, I'll second the motion. Okay. Thank you. I have a motion and a second to accept and adopt the resolution as presented. Please vote. What did I do? Oh. Okay. So motion passes 7 to 0. Okay. Miss Thomas, would you like to come to the podium, please? If you'll raise your right hand. Do you solemnly swear or affirm that you will faithfully execute the duties of office of Plano City Council, member, place number seven of the City of Plano, State of Texas. And will to the best of your ability preserve protect and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States and of this state, and the charter and ordinances of the city. And you further, furthermore, solemnly swear or affirm that you have not directly or indirectly paid, offered, promised to pay, contributed, nor promised to contribute any money or valuable thing, or promised any public office or employment as a reward for the giving or withholding of your vote at the election at which you were elected. So help you God? Yes. Congratulations. I'll get you to sign this one. And this one for me. Sign here. Yes, please. And I'll scan these and send you a copy of them. Thank you. All right. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Okay. See it right there. Because I'm going to have Julie come up and then we're going to see you. Okay. Okay. It's my honor to have Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Julie Holmer placed seven. Come and give remarks. I was doing them from here. You can do them from there. I would like to do that. But I have parting gifts. I have, I have a parting gift, too. Okay. Do it from there. I will do it from. I'll just stand over here. I'll just get. I'll come. I'll come that way. I'll come that way. When I'm not, I'm. I certainly will I. I will not be using smart brevity. As well as as I probably should. Yeah. Have a seat. Mayor. I want to start by congratulating Sean Thomas. I'm. I'm so proud of you. I, I know your experience, your history and your love for Plano and all that you've given already to our community is going to serve the city so well. And you're going to be an excellent councilwoman. And I'm just so proud to to have you taking this seat. I am I want to encourage you to to reach out to everyone I know you will. You're a great listener. Just from my experience, some of the best advice and some of the best conversations I had were from people that I didn't necessarily agree with, and finding out who those people are and finding out who has different opinions and ideas and building relationships with those people is so meaningful and and really helpful in trying to come to the best solutions possible and creative ideas. You know, sometimes it takes conflict to to generate the best ideas. So I know you're an incredible communicator. You already know these things, but I just wanted to share that with you because that's something that was really valuable to me. Some people that I even see here in the audience, that we weren't necessarily friends or even saw eye to eye on things or still don't, but they were an incredible resource to me and really helped me see things from lots of different perspectives. And I really, really valued that. If you'll indulge me while I reflect just a little bit over the last few years, I feel like this has been a little bit of a full circle moment. There's been a lot that that feels full circle. I mean, my family moved here to Plano in 1981, which was the same year that Collin Creek Mall opened, and one of my first events, after being sworn in on council was going to the groundbreaking for Collin Creek Mall so that we would revitalize it and turn it into this future billion dollar, pedestrian friendly multi-use area that's unlike anything else in around. So that that was really exciting. My first job, my first volunteer job was in Collin Creek Mall as a receptionist for the Cultural Arts Center of Plano in the Riverwalk. Down downstairs there, and while being on this council, I had the opportunity to, along with council members, increase the funding for the arts and work to implement our first ever comprehensive plan for the arts in Plano. So that was that was super exciting. Gosh, the first thing that occurred to me was when I was sworn in, I sat down with plexiglass next to me and we were wearing masks still. So there's been a lot of a lot of change since then. I also, I'm really proud of the fact that we were the first city in Texas with a full time fire department to pass the 2472 shifts schedule, that that was super exciting and honored to support the expansion of the Medical City of Plano, which is where both of my children were born. So that was special to me. And then my my service on council was really bookended with Haggard Farms and Lavon Farms. And how lucky are we to have two families that cared so much about our city that they were so intentional in thinking about how how their land would be developed in a very thoughtful way to service for many, many years to come. I would be remiss to not mention that we've got a lot more pickleball courts in Plano now, so I have to mention that thank you to everyone that helped make that happen. It's a great you know, it's something that really does improve the quality of life in Plano and and connections as well. So all of these moments kind of reinforced for me, the local government, local government matters. It's the decisions that we make here that that really touch people's lives. And that's been incredibly rewarding. So I want to thank the people that were so supportive during this journey here on council to my family, to my husband David, for all of your patience, picking up the slack with one less parent in the house and always being supportive and encouraging and, and, you know, letting me know if my outfit looks okay for whatever event I'm going to. Or so appreciate that my sons, Everett and Price, I had to miss a few football games and some wrestling matches, and you know that that's always hard. But it it it meant a lot to know that that you were proud of me. And it was nice to hear you say that. And you were encouraging. And I really appreciate you for that. To my parents, thank you so much for instilling the values of service and giving back. You know, that sense of community. Thanks for taking a job with Arco in 1981, dad, which brought us to Plano, Texas, all the way from overseas. So we I appreciate that, Mayor Muns, it has been such an honor to serve with you. You lead with integrity. People respect you, and you're always so open and approachable and easy. Easy to work with. Thank you for that. To to all of my fellow council members. I'm sad that our time together, some of some of our times together, were short. Maria has been here from the beginning. I think she may have. What's that? You're the only one left. But you've been. You've been an inspiration and you've been a mentor. And I've learned a lot, a lot from you. I guess Rick was next up and yeah, we've, we've our relationship has, has grown a lot in the last year or two. And I, I appreciate all of your your support as well. Our city staff. Wow I mean I could gush forever about I mean son, you're going to be blown away. I mean, you think you know how amazing Plano staff is once you get behind the curtain? It's just even more impressive. I mean, everyone is just so attentive, so quick. I mean, always one step ahead. I can't tell you how many times I've asked for something and it's, you know, it's already in the works. So thank you for your professionalism, your expertise, your dedication to Plano every single day. I look forward to continuing to to work with you and spending time with you, maybe a little more casually now that I'm off the dais. A special thank you to DD or DD go. There she is. DD thank you for always getting me where I need to be, when I need to be there and and just always being there to listen to, to give support. I mean, you are an amazing person. You really are so encouraging and and just made this experience wonderful. Thank you, Lisa, for keeping us on track here on the dais. And thank you page for keeping us compliant as well. I don't know if judge McNulty is here. I was disappointed to miss his presentation last week or the last meeting since it was canceled. I was looking forward to a first front row seat to him presenting about our our juvenile diversion program. And last but not least, Mark Israelson. I attended Deputy City Manager Sam Graves reception last week, I believe, or the week before and and he gushed so much. I'm worried Mark's head may just go if I if I say too much more. But I mean, it really is incredible the way that you serve, the way that you lead. When shortly after I was on the council, we had a social event actually at KC Prince's house, and it's not very often that we get together in a social atmosphere where we are just we're not talking business, we're just getting to know each other and bonding. And and Casey, of course, said we need to play a game while we're here. And she said, do you remember this, Maria? So she said, had these little pieces of paper with questions. And so we would read a question and go around and answer the questions. And they were things like, what is your hidden talent? And if you were an instrument, what instrument would you be? And there was one that stood out to me. It was if you were an animal, what animal would you be? And do you remember what you said? No idea. So he said he would be a flying squirrel. And that stuck with me. Because, you know, the only flying squirrel I had ever heard of was like the Rocky and Bullwinkle, right? Yeah. So I looked up. I didn't watch the show, the cartoon. I'd never seen it. So I looked it up to see who was this Rocky character, and he was described as calm, clever, polite, and usually the one who saves the day. He also pilots the plane, and that felt fitting because while council may set the direction and the destination, Mark is the one who knows how to get us there. And so I thought maybe I would just leave this with you. Thank. And with that, serving alongside people like this has made this role such an incredible privilege and honor. As I step away from this seat, I do so deeply grateful for the trust placed in me, proud of what we accomplished together, and committed to continuing to serve our community in the years ahead. And with that. John. Shawna. Okay. As as you said earlier. You were truly the pickleball advocate. And so we would love for you. To have your own pickleball mallet or whatever they call it. And what would you what would we do without your own street sign? That's awesome. You look at my sister real quick. Oh, sorry. Sorry, dear. All right. Thank you. Welcome. And finally, Julie, you have truly been such a great council member and advocate for the city of Plano. As you were just talking about the experience, you've been a part of this community for so long, and yet you you're so well prepared every meeting. And you, you contribute so much back to not only the council but to the entire community. We're going to miss you. We know you're not far, and we support you and everything you do, because we know that you're going to represent Plano. And so we appreciate that very much. Thank you so very much. Oh. Thank you, thank you. Okay. Yes, I believe me. What am I doing. Thank you. All right. Council member Thomas, would you please take your seat at the dais? Okay. We will have your sign ready. These are. These are heavy duty, so. Oh, here she is. All right. Good to see. Here, let me get out of the way so he can take a picture. Whew. That looks good. All right. Okay. Now, after all that, the council will now recess into executive session in training room A will hold a closed executive meeting pursuant to the provisions of Vernon's Texas Code Annotated Government Code, chapter 551, the Open Meetings Act in accordance with the authority contained in section 551 oh 71 to consult with the attorney and receive legal advice and discuss litigation. Section 551 087 to discuss economic development matters. Section 551 oh 72 to discuss real estate matters, and section 551 oh 74 to discuss personnel matters. Thank you. I now declare that the Plano City Council is reconvened open session, that all council members are present, with the exception of Council Steve Levine. We will begin tonight's regular meeting with the invocation led by NextGen Pastor Jordan Davis from First Baptist Church Plano, and the pledge, led by Boy Scout Troop 285. Would you please rise? Thank you, mayor, for that introduction. Thank you, City Council, for the invitation to lead our prayer tonight. Let's go to the Lord in prayer. Lord of heaven and earth, we call on your divine wisdom and peace to unify this body of leaders as they seek the welfare, welfare of this city and the well-being of its citizens. I pray you guide them in their decisions. Help them to steward our resources for a brighter and better future. May you lead them and bless them as they commit to this work and bear the fruit of their labor. Thank you for appointing them at this time to lead our city. May their work honor you, and may the city of Plano continue to prosper through their leadership. I pray all of this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. All right, all right. Please put your right hand over your heart. And please join me in the Pledge of Allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Please join me in the pledge flag. I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one state under God, indivisible. Thank you. Be seated. All right. Thanks, guys, for being here. Appreciate it. Yes. Okay. Here it is. These are one of my. Changes to put on the your backpacks or whatever like that. So. All right guys thank you, thank you, thank you. Yeah. Thank you guys. Thank you thank you sir. Wait a second. Now you got to take a picture. Yeah. Come on everybody get one. Gentlemen, you want to take a picture with us? Come on. Come on down. Thank you. Thank you. All right. We're going to face back up, up that way. All right. So everybody kind of fall in. All you tall guys. You're good. All right, all the kids. One. Two. 123. Four. One two. Thank you guys. Thanks for being here. We appreciate it. Yeah. Thank you. Thanks gentlemen we appreciate it. Thank you for your support. Thank you. You bet. Thank you. Thank you so much. Okay. Good. One more. Thank you. Thank you sir. Thank you so much. Really appreciate it. Okay. So it's my honor to present a proclamation. February is Black History Month honoring the rich culture and achievements and struggles of the African American community. So I'd like to call up my good friends Dolly Thomas, Tony Thomas, Ariel Thomas, James Thomas. Thomas. I know, but this is the three best that's I know that. I'm sorry. I should I should come up to you, I apologize. Thank you. Thank you. Council member Shawn Thomas. Everybody, this is our new council member. Hi. How are you? So good to see you. Thank you for being here, Thomas. Thank you. How are you? I'm good, I'm good. Well, this is this is. Yeah. We are all full. This is my honor to to present the proclamation. And hopefully there's a place for it in the African American Museum for Black History Month 2026. Whereas Black History Month has been an annual United States celebration since the bicentennial of 1976, with the purpose to promote the many cultural, economic, social and political contributions made by black men and women across the nation. And Whereas, the city of Plano also takes pride in the members of our black community and honors organizations families and individuals of African American descent, and appreciation of their invaluable contributions to this city. And whereas black history has a rich cultural heritage in Plano, beginning in the 1860s, when Andy Drake became the first black man to settle in Plano after receiving his freedom, together with most Stimpson, Drake founded a community named after abolitionist Frederick Douglass. Since that time, the area along US 75 and south of 15th Street has been known as the Plano Douglass Community. We are proud that descendants of the Stimpson family still reside in this special neighborhood. Whereas Plano's black history helped shape the way Plano developed as a city, one that regards diversity, inclusion and breaking down barriers as foundational elements of our community. Understanding our past enables us to be better, appreciate social justice justice events that have impacted our community, while also helping us gain better insights and compassion toward one another as we strive to sustain our vibrant, rich, diverse and inclusive community. Now, therefore, I, John Muns, mayor of the City of Plano, Texas, do hereby proclaim February 2026 should be celebrated as Black History Month in appreciation of the many achievements of Plano's African African American community in the City of Excellence. Congratulations! Yes. Thank you. Okay. Thank you. It is so good to see. To see you. Thank you. Can we talk? Well, let's take a picture. We'll just put it up here. Thank you. Do you want to say something? I'm just saying. And I know this, this city of excellence for during Black History Month, the very first African American city council woman in Plano. And we are just over the moon. Over the moon. Thank you all. Thank you all for your Plano. Yes. I. Okay. All right. Good. Okay. Comments of public interest. Comments of public interest. This portion of the meeting is to allow up to three minutes per speaker, with 30 total minutes on items of interest or concern, and not on items that are on the current agenda. The council may not discuss these items, but may respond with factual or policy information. The council may choose to place the item on a future agenda, and we do have some speakers this evening. The first one is Amber Chaffin. Hi, my name is Amber Chaffin. I'm the director of Keep Dart in Plano. I had things typed out and now I can't find them. So I'm going to go off of what I can remember. So the organization Keep Dart in Plano has been committed to riding the trains, busses and also taking go link to see just how Dart is impacting our city. What we've seen is primarily positive feedback, as well as a lot of concerns for what's going to happen when Plano is no longer, when Plano is potentially no longer a Dart member city. One of the stories that I want to tell you today is of a single mom who chose to live in Plano so that her son could attend Plano ISD because she chose to live in Plano. She could not afford a vehicle. Therefore, to get to and from work, she rides the dart busses. There are serious concerns that she may have to move and take her kids out of the city of Plano, out of Plano ISD, due to if Plano were to lose dart services. Some other folks that I have been talking to recently had to give give a try to Dart's link service, which is a which is the Dart micro transit that is currently offered due to the bus 254 no longer servicing the city with this. This gentleman was actually late to work on his first day, because Micro Transit was not able to get to him in time, and he had usually been so familiar with district bus route schedule. So I just wanted to share these examples of how Dart has worked in our city and is working for quite a few residents. I again ask that the city. I again ask that the the folks before me ride dart to talk to the residents who are going to be directly impacted by this change. I also ask that you attend the December 18th December. I'm in a different month. February 18th Dart public hearing, where there will be numerous Plano residents who will be listening to what changes would have to be made to Dart in the future if the city chooses to continue its relationship with Dart, I highly recommend that there be a committee and that the city show collaboration by hosting meetings with Dart so that the citizens feel that they are not only heard by Dart, but also heard by the City Council. Thank you so much and have a great day. Mary Witherspoon. My name is Mary Witherspoon and I live in the city of Dallas, but I come to Plano, one for restaurants, two to to paint and sip wine while I paint. I have lovely pictures when I sip wine, but I mainly come for medical reasons because of the large medical community in the city of Plano. About 20 years ago, I asked somebody, you know, who would be a really good internist for me to see because I do have a lot of complicated issues, and I was recommended this wonderful, amazing doctor in Plano because I have complicated issues. Of course, now I've had referrals to two specialists in Plano. So for several decades I've had this relationship with my medical needs, and I come to Plano on a frequent basis. In the last three years, I have learned more about your hospitals than I would care to know, because I've had to be referred to two surgeons. But 12 years ago, when I lost my vision and I was no longer able to drive, I still had access to all the Plano medical representatives that work with me, because I have paratransit and I have transit through Dart. If this vote goes through to remove Plano from Dart, I lose decades of medical history and relationships, and that is a big concern to me. I can't be a unique person. I can tell you that other people who have physical disabilities or visual disabilities that we can't drive. I represent so many of them that it's a challenge to get here at night when you have a disability. So I speak for just a number of people who could not make it here tonight. I was 20 when dart was voted on. So just the metroplex has always been a service provider to me, no matter what city or there have been no barriers to where I go. When cities withdraw from a regional transit system, barriers are created, especially for those of us who cannot drive or should not drive. You don't want me driving on the road at all, but it became a big necessity for me 12 years ago when I did have that vision loss, and because of that time, I have been with a lot of people who rely on dart, and it hurts and scares them to think that the cities will separate. So thank you for hearing my story. I appreciate the time that you've given me today, and a shout out to the employees of the city who gave me different accommodations because of my vision to help me get here today, and to be successfully seated in this room. I appreciate them. Thank you. Crystal Curry. Crystal curry. Good evening everyone. How are you? My name is Crystal Curry. I've been talking to city council since probably about mid third quarter 2025. But I am here again tonight and I wondered if any of you have been watching the news of what's happening with Savannah Guthrie and her mother. If any of you have, then you've seen what's happening with artificial intelligence front. I mean, front, front row, because of what's happening with her, she's been sending out pictures of her mother. And one of the things I think that's happening with that story is they're afraid of what they call deep fakes. And deep fakes are what happens in when when you have artificial intelligence technology and you have an emergency crisis like this because they're not sure if she's actually alive. I haven't followed the story today, so I don't know what's occurred today, but from what I understand as of yesterday, they aren't sure if if the pictures of her well-being are are fake or not because of the powerful tools of AI. And I said all of that to say to get your attention, hopefully, but to also say that the reason why I'm standing in front of you and the reason why I come is because artificial intelligence is not just a tool, it is become a part of society. And if you ask a lot of people, of course it's a helpful tool. I use it, but it's also very dangerous. My story is not a story. It is a real instance of artificial intelligence and how it can affect the lives of everyday citizens. What I'm only asking you to do as a city council is to help me further progress that that request to the Senate. I've already contacted Senator Ted Cruz. I've contacted Representative Congresswoman Crockett. They are all aware of what's going on with me. I've sent my overview of what's happened to me. All of this stuff is verifiable and real. So I'm just asking the community here to be aware of what is happening and to help me get to that legislation. It is I am trying to impact the legislation by adding amendments and going through that process with them. But they won't get to hear my voice and hear what's happened to me if I don't get you guys to help. So that is why I'm here. That is why I keep showing up and that is why I'm appealing. So I hope that helps explain things and I hope you all have a great night. The next speaker is Alex Stein. Scott. Yeah. Well, at least be funny tonight. You're on a roll. Hello. Honorable mayor of city council. Good evening. My current situation is very, very bad. I am being bullied by the Muslim Brotherhood because I like to drink and eat special stuff. That in your culture is not very respected. But in my culture, it has lots of healing properties. I want to say I love Donald Trump for appointing Kash Patel as FBI director. He has beautiful, beautiful country music sensation as his future bride, and I hope one day to have an authentic Indian marriage and go to their ceremony. But I'm not here for that. I'm all the way from the Holy Land of India, very, very far away. And as you may not know or you may know, I worship cows, but cow is not no ordinary animal. No no, no cow is divine mother. Her milk is amrit nectar from heaven. Her urine gomutra is purest medicine straight from the gods. Her dung God is holy gold, blessing for health and prosperity. But in this beautiful city of Plano, my HOA is behaving like total narcs, like big old demons. And now, even worse, the Muslim Brotherhood in my neighborhood also bullying me nonstop. They come into my house knocking on my door shouting at me oh, stop drinking coffee, stop! Stop eating cow poop. They sing my cow Lakshmi is haram. My holy practices is dirty. They think is touching me. Filed complaints saying they will call the police on me or more HOA will find me. Make my life hell. I'm asking you please may I have city of Plano? Is this not the land of free? Is this not the land of freedom of religion? Tala Oliveira made a video trying to come after my culture. I like to cow dung. I like it for the health benefits. I know that you are not used to it. You big Texans. You eat steak and that's disgusting and I hope that you will burn and burn forever for your crimes against this sweet cow. So I ask you, can HOA come into my house and tell me not to eat cow dung? 20s, I don't understand. Please, mayor, I beg you. Let me eat the cow dung. It has healing properties. And I love you, Kash Patel. He's protecting the Epstein victims. But you know. So what? At least we got an Indian in there, right? Thank you. Have a good evening and goodbye. The next speaker is Micah Nisha. Shikaki. I believe you do. She is okay. Sorry, Micah, if you can hear me, please accept the promotion to panelists. Okay? It keeps declining. We'll go on to Cory Riniker. And start the clock over. Go ahead. Okay. Good evening, Mayor and Council. Congratulations to new council woman, Thomas. I'm here to voice my concerns about the content and messaging on the city's transit website. The city is entitled to share factual information related to ballot measures. I'm concerned about two related issues with the information presented. First is my concern that misleading statements and graphics are presented on the website. For example, the service area map presented. We have a. Service area map presented. Is labeled with false and subjective statements. The map characterizes go link zones as the only areas of Plano that Dart serves. It is incorrect to treat going zones as the definitive measure of service provision. Gray areas of the map include both bus and train services, and it is false to say that these areas are unserved by Dart. Further, the map editorializes by adding the characterization that Go zones themselves are areas of limited service. Second, I'm concerned that the city has strayed from merely presenting information and into advocacy. This ad upside down again. Is running in the current issue of Community Impact. To my knowledge, it was purchased by the city. Although no such disclosure is made. The ad asks rhetorically if Dart service in Plano is a fair return for what Plano pays. It directs readers to transit truth's web page. The TEC says communications must be viewed in their entirety when this question is read in context of the story told in the city's website, it appears likely the reader is being guided to a particular answer, per the TEC. No matter how much factual information is provided, any amount of advocacy is impermissible. As a member of the public, I find the tone, tenor and content of this message deeply troubling, and I'd encourage Council to ask serious questions of legal staff about this, and any rationale should be publicly and openly conveyed to the public, as it's a matter of ethics and of great importance to the citizenry. Thank you. Okay. Consent agenda. Oh, sorry. Go ahead, mayor Pro tem. Maybe. Hold on. Let me get you there. Okay, so Chinese lunar new year, happy lunar New Year for 2026. This year is going to be February 17th, 2026. And every year I do a little statement about the Lunar New Year. And this year I'm going to do similar. The 2026 is the year of the horse. This year it is the fire horse. So we rotate through elements and this year happens to be the fire element. For many years during the Lunar New Year, I've told stories about the monster that is named year. However, how it comes to frighten our small children and take our elders. This year I want to talk about how the year of the horse will bring us together to face and overcome obstacles. The Fire Horse is known for its intense energy, courage and passionate spirit. This year is said to embody boldness and relentless drive to move forward, often inspiring those around it to embrace change and adventure. People believe that Fire Horse brings both excitement and unpredictability to the new year, encouraging all to face challenges with confidence and to pursue their goals with determination. So the legend has it that each new year, it was customary for one animal to lead the grand procession, symbolizing the qualities of the villagers hope to embrace in the months to come. So the wise Elder Crane called forth the gentle horse one year and said, you noble horse, you are known for your strength, energy and unwavering spirit. Will you lead us into the new Year? The horse bowed its head in humility and said, I will, but let us remember that speed alone cannot bring us happiness. I will carry you on my back, and together we will run with kindness. Guiding our hooves encouraged, lifting our hearts. So on the New Year's Day, under a sky bright with lanterns, the horses led the celebration. With the villagers on their backs. They raced across fields, share laughters, and feasted on dumplings and rice cakes. But when a sudden storm threatened the festivities, the horse did not flee. Instead, it stood firm and sheltered the smallest children beneath its main, inspiring all to help one another until the sunshine returned. From that day, the horse is known as an animal that is known not only for its swiftness, but also for its unity generosity and resilience in stories and celebrations, the fire horse is often depicted as a leader who not only charges ahead, but also lifts others up, reminding everyone that true progress is made together in a. It's very nature symbolizes warmth and enthusiasm, filling the festivities with vibrant colors, lively dances and joyful gathering. The Fire Horse's presence during Lunar New Year is a reminder to balance strength with compassion and to channel passion into positive actions for the community. I personally think that The Fire Horse exactly depicts the city of Plano in our city Council. We understand that our strength comes from inclusivity, generosity, and community. Just like the state of city. Address delivered by Mayor Muns, Plano remains relevant because we believe that strength shines brightest when shared, and the greatest journey are those traveled together. So this year, the year of the Fire Horse, we will face the Monster Year together by celebrating strength in unity, growth in generosity and love in building our community that is truly bringing good fortune to all our neighbors by protecting those too weak to protect themselves and giving to those who need to. Just a helping hand. Together, we can beat the monster year and follow the lead of the horse. Happy Lunar New Year! Thank you, Mayor Pro Tem, very much. Okay, moving on to consent agenda. Consent agenda. The consent agenda will be acted upon in one motion and contains items which are routine and typically noncontroversial. Items may be removed from this agenda for individual discussion by a council member, the city manager, or any citizen. The presiding officer will establish time limits based upon the number of speaker requests. Mr. mayor, I move. We accept the consent agenda as presented. Mayor, I'll second the motion. Thank you. I have a motion a second to accept and approve the consent agenda. Please vote. Motion passes 7 to 0. Thank you. Next item. Items for individual consideration. Public hearing items. Applicants are limited to 15 minutes presentation time with a five minute rebuttal if needed. Remaining speakers are limited to 30 total minutes of testimony time, with three minutes assigned per speaker. The presiding officer may amend these times as deemed necessary. Nonpublic hearing items. The presiding officer will permit public comment for items on the agenda not posted for a public hearing. The presiding Officer will establish time limits based upon the number of speaker requests, length of the agenda and to insure meeting efficiency, and may include a cumulative time limit. Speakers will be called in the order the requests are received until the cumulative time is exhausted. Item number one. To approve the purchase of alternative transit services for initial term of six months with three one year automatic renewals and an initial expenditure of $3,952,247 and an annual estimated amount of $8 million for subsequent renewals from Via Transportation, Inc. through an existing contract, and authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary documents, necessary documents. Mayor and Council, as I briefed you as part of the Dart overview and update, the city has been active in discussions with our transit provider, Dart over the last really 6 or 7 months. And really over the last several weeks, talks have become much more focused around a potential offer that we have heard from the chair of the Dart board. There are several actions that would need to happen over the next two weeks for that offer to really materialize, but those are very meaningful actions that would be taken. So at this point, staff would recommend tabling this item in the next item until the 23rd meeting to allow more time to see if those actions actually come to fruition, so that council will have a more informed position based upon what we are seeing currently with Dart. So that is the staff recommendation at this point. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. With what's come to light with Mister Manager Israelson discussions with regards with regards to negotiations and the path forward as laid out in our partnership with Dart, I would like to table agenda items number one and two to the March 23rd Council meeting. I second, can we do that together? Do we need to do each one separate? Did you say March 23rd? February 20th, February 23rd. So I second that the revised. So I have a motion a second to table item one and two to the February 23rd meeting. Please vote. Motion passes 7 to 0. I know many of you had plans to speak, but these meetings that are forthcoming are essential to whether or not something different may happen. So. We'll see on the 23rd without further with no more further business. We're adjourned. Yesterday. Thanks for having us. Yeah. All right. Well, for all of our listeners here who don't know what this program is. Amber, why don't you start by telling us what is this program about?