This is an Official Statement from the Collin County Republican Assembly (CCRA)
The Collin County Republican Assembly is aware of recent concerns surrounding the EPIC City Public Hearing being held at a private office location, EPIC Office Suites. We want to clearly communicate to our members and the public what the law requires and where expectations must be upheld.
Under Texas law, when a governmental body holds an official meeting, that meeting is considered "public" regardless of whether it takes place on public or private property. The designation of a meeting as "public" is not determined by location, but by its function and authority.
As such, the public must be afforded meaningful access to attend and participate.
State law further requires that citizens be given the opportunity to address the governing body on agenda items prior to any vote or decision being made. Public comment is not optional, nor can it be deferred until after action has already occurred. It is an integral part of the decision-making process.
While governing bodies may implement reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions, they may not suppress public participation or limit input based on viewpoint or content. Transparency and accountability are foundational to lawful governance.
Additionally, proper notice of meetings, including a clearly posted agenda at least 72 hours in advance (three business days), is a fundamental requirement to ensure the public is informed and able to engage.
If any meeting fails to meet these standards, it raises serious concerns regarding compliance with established law and the integrity of the process.
As CCRA Board Officer Ashley Louden has stated:
"As a court hearing, you're holding an emergency meeting to restructure leadership, which has now been canceled; that does not build trust. It looks like damage control. There is a real concern in our community and U.S. law, about ensuring that everything associated with this development operates fully within Texas and U.S. law, with no exceptions, and no ambiguity."
No organization, group, or development, regardless of affiliation, is above the law or entitled to a separate standard. The same rules must apply equally to all.
CCRA will continue to monitor this situation closely and advocate for proper process, lawful conduct, and the protection of citizen participation across our communities.
We remain committed to ensuring that governance in Collin County reflects accountability, accessibility, and adherence to the rule of law.