Check out some recent government updates coming out of Prosper and Celina, including changes to Celina’s waste collection services and Prosper’s next steps after the town’s $192.3 million bond election.

1.  Prosper OKs $1M utility relocation project ahead of US 380 widening
Drivers on US 380 could see more construction on US 380 as the town prepares for the next phase of the highway’s expansion.

Zooming in: At a Nov. 25 meeting, Prosper Town Council approved a $1 million contract with Freese and Nichols Inc. to design a project relocating water and wastewater lines along US 380 between Coit and Custer roads.

2. Celina transitions to new community waste disposal service
Celina residents can expect to see changes with the residential trash and recycling services as the city transitions to a new provider. 

The gist: Starting Dec. 1, Celina will transition from contracting with Waste Connections to Community Waste Disposal, according to the city's website. The new contract was approved by Celina City Council in March.

EOS Fitness is planning to open its first Celina location next year, according to the company’s website.

Zooming in: The gym chain offers group fitness classes, personal training, strength and cardio equipment and sports amenities, according to its website. The new gym will be located at the southeast corner of Preston Road and Ownsby Parkway, according to a filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

• 200 W. Ownsby Parkway, Celina

Frisco will purchase six drones as a first responder for its police department.
 
The details: Frisco City Council approved an amendment to the agreement with Flock Group, which will provide drones as a first responder equipment to the Frisco Police Department. The amendment was approved during a Nov. 18 City Council meeting. The original agreement was approved by council in September.

The hardware purchase will include six drones with docking stations, cameras, batteries and docks. Software will include remote piloting, air traffic awareness, spectator view, mobile app and a community engagement dashboard.

The background: Drone as a first responder allows first responders to assess emergency situations through the high-definition camera and thermal camera attached to the drone before sending human first responders to the scene.

Kim McKinnon and Denise Lamanna work together as realtors on their “Downsizing Made Easy” program at Southlake-based McKinnon Real Estate, which focuses on helping homeowners across the region transition to senior living.

Community Impact interviewed McKinnon and Lamanna to provide families additional knowledge while considering a transition. Answers have been edited for length, style and clarity.

How can families determine if senior living is a good fit for their needs?
McKinnon: If someone is having a hard time functioning at home, meaning running errands, being able to get meals prepared. Are they able to walk freely?

Lamanna: Are their physical needs being met? We also run into loneliness or their ability to maintain their home from a maintenance perspective. That becomes an issue a lot of times with seniors.