Plano, Texas, December 24, 2025
Residents of Plano, Texas, will head to the polls on January 31 to elect a new representative for City Council Place 7 after Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Julie Holmer’s resignation. The election features two candidates: Colleen Aguilar-Epstein, a retired educator focused on preserving community character, and Shun Thomas, an educational specialist advocating for improved public transit options. Early voting runs from January 14-27, with the new council member serving until May 2027.
Plano, Texas – Special Election for City Council Place 7
Plano residents will vote on January 31, 2026, to fill the City Council Place 7 seat, following the resignation of Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Julie Holmer, who is running for Collin County Commissioner.
The special election features two candidates: Colleen Aguilar-Epstein, a retired educator, and Shun Thomas, an educational specialist at Children’s Health Plano.
Candidate Profiles
Colleen Aguilar-Epstein, 63, has lived in Plano for 30 years. She aims to preserve the city’s suburban character and supports exploring alternatives to the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system, citing concerns over service costs and quality. Aguilar-Epstein has previously run for City Council in 2019 and 2023 and serves on Plano’s Board of Adjustment and as Secretary of Council at St. Paul Lutheran Church.
Shun Thomas, 49, has been a Plano resident for nearly a decade. With a doctorate in human services, she coordinates educational plans for hospitalized children. Thomas emphasizes community service and is open to collaborating with DART to enhance public transit options. She has a background in education within the Plano Independent School District.
Election Details
Early voting will occur from January 14 to January 27, 2026. The last day to register to vote is December 31, 2025. The winner will serve the remainder of Holmer’s term, which ends in May 2027.
Background
Julie Holmer resigned from the City Council in October 2025 to run for Collin County Commissioner, Precinct 4. The special election for Place 7 is part of the process to fill her vacated seat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the special election?
The special election aims to fill the City Council Place 7 seat vacated by Julie Holmer, who resigned to run for Collin County Commissioner.
Who are the candidates running for Place 7?
The candidates are Colleen Aguilar-Epstein, a retired educator, and Shun Thomas, an educational specialist at Children’s Health Plano.
When is the election taking place?
The election is scheduled for January 31, 2026, with early voting from January 14 to January 27, 2026.
How can I register to vote?
Residents can register to vote by December 31, 2025. Voter registration status can be checked on the Texas Secretary of State’s website.
What is the term length for the elected candidate?
The elected candidate will serve the remainder of Julie Holmer’s term, which ends in May 2027.
Key Features of the Special Election
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Election Date | January 31, 2026 |
| Early Voting Period | January 14 to January 27, 2026 |
| Voter Registration Deadline | December 31, 2025 |
| Term Length | Until May 2027 |
| Vacated Seat | City Council Place 7 |
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