McKinney, Texas (March 24, 2025) – City Manager Paul Grimes has announced the hiring of Jennifer Arnold as Assistant City Manager after a nationwide search. Arnold begins serving in her new role today, March 24. She fills a position that has been vacant since the departure of Assistant City Manager Kim Flom earlier this month.

Arnold started with the City of McKinney in 2007 and has served as the Director of Planning since 2018. During her time in McKinney, Arnold has led a number of large projects, including the New Code McKinney Unified Development Code (UDC) Initiative, the ONE McKinney 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update, the Northwest Sector Planning Initiative, the Town Center Study Initiative, and many other strategic planning projects. She has also directed daily planning activities, leading to over $3 billion in new construction in the city, and helped to establish the McKinney Town Center form-based code and the city’s first Tax Increment Reinvestment Zones.

“Jennifer has been an integral part of our organization for many years, demonstrating exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to McKinney’s growth and development,” said City Manager Paul Grimes. “Her expertise in planning and strategic initiatives has helped shape the future of our city, and we are confident she will bring the same dedication and vision to her new role as Assistant City Manager.”

Arnold holds a Bachelor of Science in Renewable Natural Resources and a master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. She is a graduate of the Leadership McKinney Class of 2018 and is also a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners. Arnold was recently accepted into the Leadership ICMA program, an intensive, one-year professional development program designed to support and grow leaders in local government.  

"I joined McKinney in 2007, and it’s been a true blessing to grow with such a great organization. The projects, relationships, and lessons along the way have shaped me as a leader and deepened my appreciation for what makes McKinney unique. I’m excited to carry that forward into my new role," Arnold said.

Hayley Angel, Planning Manager, will serve as the Interim Director of Planning while the city conducts a nationwide search for a permanent Director of Planning.