Connect
To Top

Conversations with George Fuller

Today we’d like to introduce you to George Fuller.

George Fuller

Hi George, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I began my career in Manhattan, where I managed the re-development of a commercial building to residential lofts. I then moved to Roanoke, Virginia and opened an auto parts distribution business, capitalizing on the new next day delivery services of UPS and FedEx. I opened a second location in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and ultimately a third location in Dallas, which is how I ended up in North Texas. I then started an exercise equipment manufacturing business called Body Quest, I did trade shows across the country and abroad, ultimately selling that business and buying an interest in a recording studio called Sound Southwest. I also began buying, renovating and selling small homes that had fallen into disrepair. I then formed George C Fuller Contracting Company and began building new homes in North Dallas, all the while moonlighting as a guitar player in the Dallas club scene, where/when I met my wife Maylee, who hired me from my own band to play in hers. Soon after that, we formed the Love Life Foundation, an organization that benefits at-risk women and children, and with many incredible volunteers, continue to serve the community today.

Eventually, my path led me to McKinney, Texas, where I’ve been a resident and business owner for decades.
Over time, I expanded my work in development: custom homes, retail centers, commercial spaces, infrastructure projects. One of the larger projects is Adriatica, a 46-acre mixed-use development in McKinney, designed to feel like an Old-World village while serving modern needs. Alongside that, I continued pursuing my passion for music with Maylee, and in addition to performing, touring and recording, we opened The Guitar Sanctuary, The Sanctuary Performance Academy, and The Sanctuary Music & Event Center.

In 2009, I decided to run for public office. Although I did not succeed in that first attempt, I was appointed to the McKinney Community Development Corporation. I served on the board, ultimately as Chairman, before running for office again in 2017, when I was honored to be elected Mayor and then re-elected in 2021. During those years I focused on balancing growth with quality of life, investing in infrastructure, fostering regional cooperation, supporting public safety, and championing the arts. I also served in broader roles across North Texas, including being appointed to the RTC (Regional Transportation Council), elected President of the Metroplex Mayors Association, President of Region 13 of the Texas Municipal League, and Secretary of the Dallas Regional Mobility Council.

“Through all of it, family has been my anchor. Maylee — an accomplished singer and songwriter and Citizen of the Year in 2014 — has walked beside me every step of the way. Together we’ve raised four children and now celebrate life with two grandchildren.”

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No, the road has been very difficult at times. As an Entrepeneur and business owner, I have been through many economic cycles, including significant and unexpected downturns. During my tenure as Mayor, I went through some very challenging times, from social unrest following what became a nationally discussed incident concerning a former council member here at home while navigating the same unrest across the nation after the George Floyd incident. State legislation that has been passed to the detriment of cities like McKinney, Covid, a great recession, and a myriad of other unforeseen events brought deep challenges.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have been a guitar player most of my life, writing and performing. I love the effect music has on the soul, its ability to unify and transcend the divisive noise we seem to have so much of in today’s political environment. As Mayor, I am proud of the work our council and city staff have done. McKinney has appeared on lists of the safest, most affordable cities in the nation. The city has earned the highest transparency, bond and fire protection ratings a city can obtain. It has accolades for its culture and music. We secured the Byron Nelson golf tournament, NCAA Division II football championship, the Cannon Beach surf park and Sunset Amphitheater to the city. We nearly doubled our commercial property value and sales tax revenues.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I have always been a fan of Tony Robbins, drawn to his energy and methods to change patterns in our behavior. His books and programs have had an impact on my life and how I approach problems or difficulties. My father, however, was my greatest role model and inspiration. He was a man of great character, integrity, passion, compassion, humor and work ethic.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Raine Fuller

Suggest a Story: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in Local Stories