McKINNEY, TX – June 17, 2025
In an emotional ceremony marked by gratitude, unity, and the passing of the torch, Bill Cox was officially sworn in as Mayor of McKinney, with Ernest Lynch joining the City Council as the new At‑Large 1 representative.
The event capped off an era of leadership under outgoing Mayor George Fuller, who offered heartfelt remarks not just about his time in office — but about the city, the people in the room, and what comes next.
A Mayor’s Farewell: Fuller Bows Out With Grace
As he looked out at the crowd, Fuller was visibly moved.
“It’s funny — I look at this room and I see developers, mentors, people I used to not get along with, and now we’re friends. This room is filled with people who shaped McKinney into what it is today.”
He reflected on the week leading up to the ceremony, sharing that people kept texting him asking if stepping down felt bittersweet. His answer?
“It’s not really bitter… for me, because replacing me is Bill Cox… there’s no bitterness. There’s only excitement for the future. The city elected truly the right person for this job.”
His voice occasionally cracked as he named familiar faces — school board members, former mayors, longtime community leaders. It wasn’t just a farewell — it was a moment of continuity and affirmation.
“He That Is Greatest Among You Shall Be the Servant of All.”
One of the most moving moments came from Fuller’s wife, Maylee, who spoke of her journey alongside her husband and how her life in service began long before city hall.
“Service is my gift,” she said, quoting Matthew 23:11. “And I found a man who embraced that with me.”
She spoke of their early years together in music, their shared values, and a moment years ago when a pastor told them they were called to lead — not just spiritually, but publicly.
“This will always be our home,” she said. “And this will always be one of the greatest highlights of our lives.”
Lynch Sworn In, With a Theme Song — and a Smile
Councilmember Ernest Lynch took his seat with humility and humor, referencing Fuller’s chosen theme song “Rocky” and joking that the real work — like Rocky’s climb up the famous steps — was just beginning.
“I’m deeply honored and I am looking forward to serving,” he said. “Thank you so much for your support.”
He noted the symbolic weight of the moment, promising to remain accessible to residents and bring a spirit of service to every decision.
“It’s time to get to work — together,” Lynch added. “We’re not just holding seats. We’re here to build something even better.”
A Vision of Continuity and Commitment
Mayor Bill Cox took the oath surrounded by friends, family, and longtime McKinney residents — a moment that marked the start of a new chapter for the city.
“When I look out,” Cox said, pausing as emotion welled up, “what I see is McKinney. Old friends, new friends — and a city ready to move forward.”
Cox emphasized that the work ahead wasn’t about a single person.
“There are seven of us up here. This isn’t about me — this is about we. This is about us.”
Former Mayor George Fuller recalled the moment he approached Cox in a Home Depot aisle two and a half years ago, telling him point-blank: “You’re the next mayor of McKinney.”
Citing Cox’s deep civic roots — from a grandfather tied to infrastructure projects to a father once honored as McKinney’s Citizen of the Year — Fuller stressed that the city was in capable hands.
“When you think about who embodies this city… who has the temperament, the care, the leadership qualities — it was Bill.”
Cox, in turn, acknowledged the weight of that legacy:
“I never imagined standing here. But I also never doubted that my love for this city would lead me to serve it — in whatever way I could.”
From Ceremony to Substance
After the standing ovation and final blessings, Mayor Cox brought the focus back to the work ahead.
“All the pageantry is over,” he said. “Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work.”
Cox’s words were simple, but clear: a commitment to keep building on what’s working, while tackling the big challenges ahead
“We will work tirelessly to make McKinney better than it is,” Cox promised. “And I say that not as a goal, but as a responsibility.”
With that, the gavel was passed. The crowd cheered. And McKinney’s next chapter officially began.