It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Plano High School and Gymnasium - Texas State Historical Marker gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Plano, TX is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Always Best Care in Bedford TX, staff are benevolent, attentive, generous,thoughtful, and kindhearted. They work”
“Nice vibes welcoming workers best people to work with.they work with ur schedules and set”
“Nice vibes welcoming workers best people to work with.they work with ur schedules and set”
“Dear Mr. Gardner, I am writing to express my gratitude for the commitment and”
“Excellent service and friendly staff!!!”
“Great company and friendly, caring staff!! Highly recommended!”
“Very terrific company and great customer service. They found a place for my parents very”
“Very kind people to the elderly. Vicki is a caring person. This is a wonderful”
“Rarely do I give a 5-star rating to any company, but this is clearly a”
“Always Best Care in Bedford TX, staff are benevolent, attentive, generous,thoughtful, and kindhearted. They work with your schedule and accommodate you the best they can. For a company that have been in business over 23 years, they still take pride in who they employee as well as the families they assist. I am very grateful to be working for a company that works from their heart.”
“Nice vibes welcoming workers best people to work with.they work with ur schedules and set up work time that are convenient to work with.”
“Nice vibes welcoming workers best people to work with.they work with ur schedules and set up work time that are convenient to work with.”
“Dear Mr. Gardner, I am writing to express my gratitude for the commitment and service of your employee, Shameka Kelly. Through your agency, Ms. Kelly was connected to our family to serve as a caregiver for my sister Victoria who was in the late states of ALS/Lou Gehrig’s disease and required 24-hr. care at home. Shameka served as full-time caregiver under the direction of Victoria’s husband Ron, who was able to keep my sister at home until her passing this past March. This catastrophic and incurable disease rendered my sister completely paralyzed—wheelchair bound, unable to speak, bathe, eat or even lift a finger to do anything for herself. Shameka did what most caregivers would not or simply could not do because of the stamina and patience required to care for Victoria. Before Shameka, we hired a multitude of caregivers who came and went—sometimes only after one day—because of how strenuous and taxing being a caregiver to my sister was. Day after day, Shameka arrived for the job with a smile on her face and the patience and commitment to go with it. My sister Victoria grew to love Shameka, as we all have. It was a great comfort to us because we knew that if Shameka was on duty, my sister was in good hands. Shameka’s character, integrity, humor, honesty and professionalism are beyond reproach. She is an extremely caring individual who is always upbeat, optimistic, and patient. She was an answer to prayer for our family and became more than a caregiver—she became part of our family. She has my highest recommendation for any task or client that may be placed before her. And we will be forever grateful. Kindest Regards, Pamela Meek North Richland Hills, TX”
“Excellent service and friendly staff!!!”
“Great company and friendly, caring staff!! Highly recommended!”
“Very terrific company and great customer service. They found a place for my parents very quickly! I highly recommend.”
“Very kind people to the elderly. Vicki is a caring person. This is a wonderful organization. Highly recommend.”
“Rarely do I give a 5-star rating to any company, but this is clearly a deserved rating. I would highly recommend Always Best Care of Ft. Worth. Their care and attention to detail is excellent. After 2 1/2 years of service to our family, they became an extension to our family. Many times they went above and beyond expectations. They communicated very well with family members.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Bob Woodruff Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local The Capital Grille or visit Downtown Plano, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
Request More Information
While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Plano, TX, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Plano, TX understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Plano, TX 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Attorney General Ken Paxton said he's opened an investigation into a proposed development meant to accommodate the North Texas Muslim community, claiming potential violations of the state’s consumer protection laws.The East Plano Islamic Center, one of the largest mosques in the area, is planning the development in Josephine, Texas, roughly 40 miles northeast of Dallas. Paxton issued a Civil Investigative Demand into the corporate entity involved with the project, Community Capital Partners."Under my watch, there wil...
Attorney General Ken Paxton said he's opened an investigation into a proposed development meant to accommodate the North Texas Muslim community, claiming potential violations of the state’s consumer protection laws.
The East Plano Islamic Center, one of the largest mosques in the area, is planning the development in Josephine, Texas, roughly 40 miles northeast of Dallas. Paxton issued a Civil Investigative Demand into the corporate entity involved with the project, Community Capital Partners.
"Under my watch, there will be zero tolerance for any person or entity that breaks Texas law,” said Paxton. “My office has an open and ongoing investigation into EPIC City, which has raised a number of concerns, and this CID will help ensure that any potential violation of state law is uncovered.”
It’s not clear what provisions the proposed development is accused of violating.
It comes after Gov. Greg Abbott announced on X “a dozen state agencies are looking into” the East Plano Islamic Center’s proposed 402-acre development, which he alleged had “serious legal issues.” The governor did not provide evidence of his claim.
Abbott also referred to "foreign adversaries” in his tweet, but did not elaborate.
KERA News reached out to his office for clarity on both claims.
The proposed EPIC compound in Collin Co. has serious legal issues.A dozen state agencies are investigating it, the Attorney General will look into it, and legislators are considering laws to restrict it, as well as laws to prevent foreign adversaries from buying land in Texas.
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) March 25, 2025
The project, referred to as "EPIC City," includes a new mosque, more than 1,000 single and multi-family homes, a K-12 faith-based school, senior housing, an outreach center, commercial developments, sports facilities, and a community college.
Imran Chaudhary, President of Community Capital Partners said in a statement to KERA News the company will work with Paxton as the investigation is ongoing.
“We understand that there has been a lot of rumor-milling and misinformation circulated by many who are uniformed," Chaudhary said. "We look forward to working with the Attorney General to ensure that we are in legal compliance every step of the way and educating the broader community about our project.“
State Rep. Jeff Leach, R-Plano, also sent a letter to Paxton asking to look into the project, worried it may include “elements of Sharia Law” and would be a violation of state law.
Leach speculated the project could violate House Bill 45, a law passed in 2017 that prohibits the use of any foreign law in the state’s courts.
The Islamic center posted a video last month highlighting the proposed development which spread across social media, immediately getting bombarded with negative comments online from users including Abbott.
Abbott accused the project in February of promoting “Sharia cities” – referring to a body of religious laws forming part of the Islamic traditions, which itself has been the target of conservative legislators across the country.
The governor and other commenters called it the start of a "no-go zone," implying without evidence non-Muslim people wouldn’t be allowed to enter.
To be clear, Sharia law is not allowed in Texas.Nor are Sharia cities. Nor are “no go zones“ which this project seems to imply.Bottom line. The project as proposed in the video is not allowed in Texas. https://t.co/5Sw5VdXD31
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) February 24, 2025
East Plano Islamic Center responded Abbott on X, saying its vision is to build a diverse community open to all ethnic and religious backgrounds.
“It should go without saying that our community, like any other in this great state, will follow all local, state and federal laws,” the post read. “We would love for you to see the site and learn about our project over some Hutchins BBQ.”
In an interview last year, Yasir Qadhi, a resident scholar at the Plano mosque and one of the people involved in the project planning, said the idea for EPIC City came as the Muslim population continues to grow in the region.
“We need more space, and there are people coming from across the country,” Qadhi said. “Dallas is now known to be a hub of people of our faith, coming not just to the city, but specifically to our mosque.”
Qadhi emphasized this project is not exclusive to the Muslim community – anyone is welcome.
“It’s an open community,” Qadhi said. “Anybody can come in. We're welcoming people of all backgrounds and diversity and we're offering them facilities that we think would be very, very useful.”
The EPIC City developments are in unincorporated areas of Josephine, a nearly two-square-mile city between Collin and Hunt counties growing rapidly in recent years. In 2023, the population grew by nearly 5,000 people – a 234% increase in the course of three years.
Those numbers could increase even more with the help of EPIC City – the first 450 plots sold out within days of its announcements on the mosque’s website, Qadhi said.
“The demand to move to our community is so high from across the country that we envision that demand would remain even if we created another parallel community,” he said.
Qadhi also said there’s no external funding for any of the planned construction. Instead, people are purchasing shares to own a plot of land for future homes. In those purchases, there’s a charge to help fund the construction of other buildings, like the mosque and school, he said
Qadhi said they want to showcase the best of being Muslim Americans.
“We are a very family-centered and community-centered faith,” Qadhi said. “We strongly feel that by coming together and by living our faith in this great land, we are exemplifying the American dream. And we are going to contribute back not only to ourselves and our families, but to the greater public around us. And that's what it means to be to be a part of this society.”
Penelope Rivera is KERA's breaking news reporter. Got a tip? Email Penelope Rivera at [email protected].
KERA News is made possible through the generosity of our members. If you find this reporting valuable, consider making a tax-deductible gift today. Thank you.
In March 2025, claims (archived) circulated online that a "sharia city" — Shariah being the body of guidance Muslims follow to live a righteous life — was under construction in Texas. Islam critic and RAIR founder Amy Mek shared early versions of the claim on X....
In March 2025, claims (archived) circulated online that a "sharia city" — Shariah being the body of guidance Muslims follow to live a righteous life — was under construction in Texas. Islam critic and RAIR founder Amy Mek shared early versions of the claim on X.
???? ALERT TEXAS! ????Pakistani-American Imam Yasir Qadhi is Engineering America's Islamization—Using Texas as the Blueprint for Sharia DominationYasir Qadhi is the mastermind behind EPIC City, a 1,000+ home gated Islamic stronghold just 30 minutes from Dallas.This 402-acre… https://t.co/eNJRKfE8bN pic.twitter.com/xzjBsIB0ir
— Amy Mek (@AmyMek) March 14, 2025
Mek's post centered on EPIC City, a development east of Dallas, managed by EPIC Community Capital Partner, a nonprofit organization set up by the East Plano Islamic Center, a mosque and community center near Plano. Another development, EPIC Ranches, is planned nearby.
Other claims accusing EPIC City of being a "sharia city" also appeared across X and Facebook (archived) (archived) (archived) (archived). One of Mek's posts also was shared by Texas' governor.
According to the Council on Foreign Relations, a U.S. foreign-policy think tank, Shariah is "the divine counsel that Muslims follow to live moral lives and grow close to God." Interpretations of Shariah, the principles of which stem from the Quran and hadith — sayings attributed to the Prophet Muhammad — form the basis of Islamic law.
Therefore, according to the CFR, "most Muslims worldwide follow aspects of sharia in their private religious practices," and, more likely than not, Muslims living in EPIC City would follow aspects of Shariah, too, when practicing their religion.
However, Yasir Qadhi, a spokesman for the projects, told The Dallas Morning News that EPIC City would enforce only Texas and federal laws.
We reached out to Qadhi, EPIC City and EPIC Ranches to ask how Shariah would be incorporated into their communities, and await a reply.
The EPIC projects were in the early stages of development at the time of this writing, with plots still for sale to prospective buyers.
The developers of EPIC City and Ranches clearly advertised the projects' connection to the East Plano Islamic Center. According to EPIC City's website, the project is managed by EPIC Community Capital Partner, a nonprofit organization set up by EPIC specifically to manage the developments.
The planned city would consist of nearly 1,100 single -family lots, a private school, commercial space and a mosque, according to investor documents on EPIC City's website. CCP would donate land to EPIC for the construction of the mosque and school, according to the documents. The school would be run either by EPIC or an "affiliate."
The EPIC Ranches, announced in February 2025, added 130 additional lots within a short distance of EPIC City.
The face of the EPIC City project, Yasir Qadhi, is also a resident scholar at EPIC.
While the website for EPIC City and Ranches did not make mention of Shariah, the EPIC City website did advertise the development as "a safe purpose-built community to serve the growing needs of a Muslim community."
(Screenshot from epicccp.com)
According to The Dallas Morning News, a February project update featuring Qadhi described the development as a "Muslim neighborhood" and "a role model community of thousands of Muslims living well-integrated."
The cited video update could not be found on EPIC City's website and social media channels at the time of this writing.
However, the CCP also told The News it would adhere to the Fair Housing Act, meaning it would not enforce "blanket bans" on any group of people but assess buyers individually for suitability to buy within the developments.
The CCP had changed text on its website, according to The News, to make it clear that the EPIC projects could be home to "people of every background, faith, and culture" who "align with our goals of safety and security."
Mek's posts, viewed millions of times on X, repeatedly (archived) associated (archived) the EPIC developments with Shariah.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott spread Mek's claims further. On Feb. 24, Abbott reposted (archived) one of Mek's posts about EPIC City, writing:
To be clear, Sharia law is not allowed in Texas.
Nor are Sharia cities.
Nor are "no go zones" which this project seems to imply.
Bottom line. The project as proposed in the video is not allowed in Texas.
We reached out to Abbott's office to ask what legislation the governor's statements were based on and whether his office would investigate or take action against the EPIC developments, and await a reply.
On Feb. 27, Texas state Rep. Jeff Leach sent a letter (archived) to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, writing that: "Reports indicate that this large-scale real estate development may seek to incorporate elements of Sharia law into its operations, raising serious legal and constitutional concerns." We have reached out to Leach to ask which reports he was referring to. We also asked him and Paxton whether investigations into the development were planned or ongoing. We will update this report if we receive responses.
Snopes reported in December 2024 about a bill that allegedly made Shariah illegal in Texas. We've reported on claims about Shariah being imposed in Texas since 2015.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has said "a dozen state agencies" in the Lone Star State, along with Attorney General Ken Paxton, are investigating plans by the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) to create a new Islamic focused set...
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has said "a dozen state agencies" in the Lone Star State, along with Attorney General Ken Paxton, are investigating plans by the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) to create a new Islamic focused settlement dubbed "EPIC City" in Collin and Hunt counties.
Newsweek contacted the East Plano Islamic Center for comment via email on Tuesday outside of regular office hours.
Plans for EPIC City have already proven controversial, with Abbott in February commenting "Sharia law is not allowed in Texas" in response to the project, though the organizers haven't said they plan to impose Sharia (Islamic) law in the settlement.
During his first term in office President Donald Trump banned people from a number of predominantly Muslim countries from visiting the United States, having called for a "total and complete shutdown of Muslims" entering the country. Earlier this month The New York Times published what it claimed was a draft memo from the Trump administration proposing a fresh entry ban on the citizens of 11 countries, of which seven are Muslim majority.
In an X post on Monday Abbott wrote: "The proposed EPIC compound in Collin Co. has serious legal issues.
"A dozen state agencies are investigating it, the Attorney General will look into it, and legislators are considering laws to restrict it, as well as laws to prevent foreign adversaries from buying land in Texas."
The EPIC City proposal project is being managed by Community Capital Partners, which was "created by EPIC" according to its official website.
If constructed EPIC City would be built on a 402-acre site which covers parts of Collin and Hunt counties. Preliminary plans include over 1,000 houses, a mosque, a faith school, a community college and sports facilities split into two sections, EPIC Ranches One and Two.
In a February update East Plano Islamic Center resident scholar Yasir Qadhi said the plan was to create a "Muslim neighborhood" which would be "well integrated" into the wider community.
Read more Texas
The proposal was condemned by Abbott on X, with the governor posting: "To be clear, Sharia law is not allowed in Texas. Nor are Sharia cities. Nor are 'no go zones' which this project seems to imply."
Speaking to The Dallas Morning News, Community Capital Partners insisted they "will not enforce blanket bans on any group of people, but we will conduct thorough individualized assessments of prospective buyers to ensure they align with our goals of safety and security."
Community Capital Partners added they will adhere to the Fair Housing Act, which bans discrimination in housing based on certain characteristics, including religion.
East Plano Islamic Center resident scholar Yasir Qadhi: "EPIC City is going to be a role model community of thousands of Muslims living well-integrated.
"We are not forming a cult. We're not forming big barriers between the rest of society. We're going to be giving back to this state and this country, and we're going to be showing what it means to be a Muslim neighborhood."
Community Capital Partners said in a statement: "Our vision is to build a diverse and inclusive community — one in which people of every background, faith, and culture can live together in harmony. We will uphold the safety and well-being of our neighbors at every step of development, starting with thorough individualized assessments of prospective buyers to ensure they align with our goals of safety and security."
Plans for EPIC City are still in the preliminary stage and will be "revised based on the lot size survey from interested investors."
It is unclear what the investigations by Paxton and a "dozen state agencies" will uncover, but Abbott's strong opposition will be a major stumbling block for the developers. This is especially the case if, as Abbott suggests, lawmakers pass specific legislation to block development plans, though this could face a legal challenge.
A multi-purpose development and community being proposed in Collin County is generating attention from state lawmakers and also prompting an investigation this week by the Texas Attorney General.Called "EPIC City," the planned community could be built on top of 400 acres near Josephine between Collin and Hunt counties. Its website describes it as "a community aimed at serving the needs of the Muslim community" and includes 1,000 homes, a K-12 faith-...
A multi-purpose development and community being proposed in Collin County is generating attention from state lawmakers and also prompting an investigation this week by the Texas Attorney General.
Called "EPIC City," the planned community could be built on top of 400 acres near Josephine between Collin and Hunt counties. Its website describes it as "a community aimed at serving the needs of the Muslim community" and includes 1,000 homes, a K-12 faith-based school, a mosque, apartments, shops, and even a community college.
The proposed development, organized by the East Plano Islamic Center, is at the center of controversy.
Gov. Greg Abbott posted this message to X Wednesday night: "The proposed community will never see the light of day."
Attorney General Ken Paxton announced Tuesday he's starting an investigation over EPIC City's potential violation of state consumer protection laws, saying in part: "Promotional materials advertised by EPIC have explicitly stated that EPIC is the 'only beneficiary of profits' from EPIC City."
Rep. Jeff Leach (R-Allen) wrote a letter to Paxton in February saying, "Reports indicate that this large-scale real estate development may seek to incorporate elements of Sharia law into its operations. We must ensure that no entity attempts to circumvent state law under the guise of cultural or religious accommodation."
According to the Council on American-Islamic Relations, Sharia law is a "framework for personal conduct and moral guidance," but the regulation of the law varies depending on the person and county.
Abbott recently said on X: "To be clear Sharia law is not allowed in Texas. Nor are Sharia cities."
Leaders with EPIC City say their community will be inclusive and open to anyone, not just Muslims. They also say they will follow local, state, and federal laws. Legal experts tell CBS News Texas that this investigation by the state could face constitutional obstacles with freedom of religion.
"Just the fact that this neighborhood or community would be predominantly Muslim, that is not illegal," civil rights attorney James Roberts said.
Roberts said the state has a right to investigate if EPIC City is violating state laws.
"There have been other communities, religious communities that have had to deal with zoning ordinances and things of that nature, [where the city or state] says where they can and can't place religious facilities," Roberts said. "[The communities] won those lawsuits because that is a substantial burden on their religious freedoms."
The organizers of EPIC City denied CBS News Texas' request for an interview but wrote in a statement: "We understand that there has been a lot of rumor-milling and misinformation circulated by many who are uninformed. We look forward to working with the Attorney General to ensure that we are in legal compliance every step of the way."
Collin County Commissioners plan to vote on EPIC City's permit on April 14.
CBS News Texas has reached out to Leach about the accusations and has not heard back yet.
Four restaurants in Plano were recently closed for serious health violations including a repeat violator that was previously closed due to “gross insanitary conditions,” according to the city’s restaurant inspection data compiled by the Star-Telegram.Plano restaurants are inspected on a 100-point system. A score of 100 is perfect, and 70 is considered extremely poor.There were 182 restaurant inspections...
Four restaurants in Plano were recently closed for serious health violations including a repeat violator that was previously closed due to “gross insanitary conditions,” according to the city’s restaurant inspection data compiled by the Star-Telegram.
Plano restaurants are inspected on a 100-point system. A score of 100 is perfect, and 70 is considered extremely poor.
There were 182 restaurant inspections conducted between March 2 and March 15.
Simply Veg, at 9720 Coit Road Ste 110, was ordered to remain closed to the public until approval to reopen is obtained in writing from the health department. The restaurant was previously closed on Feb. 6 due to “gross insanitary conditions,” the department said.
The restaurant had three follow-up inspections on Feb. 13, Feb. 27 and March 5. The inspectors have ordered the eatery to discontinue operations due to imminent health hazards. The repeated violations include food being handled, stored and prepared in a way that presents a high risk to the public even after repeated notifications not to perform such practices, and lack of oversight and basic food safety practices, according to city reports.
Eat Street Indian Kitchen, at 3801 W. President George Bush Highway, was closed after a serious health violation. The business scored 71 and was instructed to correct all violations before a follow-up inspection. After the follow-up, the establishment was ordered to remain closed until approval to reopen is obtained from the City of Plano Health Department, city records show.
Scruffy Duffies, at 5865 Kincaid Road Ste E8, scored 85 and was temporarily closed because the floor drain was unable to adequately evacuate waste water. The restaurant was reopened after a follow-up inspection.
The Alley, at 8240 Preston Road Ste 177, scored 75. The restaurant was temporarily closed until water with a temperature of at least 100 of was restored.
Roaches and roach-like insects were found twice at two different inspections in the following food establishments:
Krispy Krunchy Chicken, at 3304 Coit Rd Ste 700B. Score: 87
The Courses at Watters Creek, at 7201 Chase Oaks Blvd. Score: 97
More than 30 restaurants had a follow-up inspection.
Here are the inspection scores and violations for restaurants within the city limits of Plano for March 2nd - March 15th, 2025. A score of 100 is a perfect score and 70 is considered to be extremely poor. Each establishment receives between one and four routine inspections per year. To search the restaurant inspections, type in a keyword or restaurant name. You can also sort by score.
Steve Wilson [email protected]
Some data analysis in this chart was conducted using AI. For more information on how the Star-Telegram and McClatchy newsrooms are using AI, go here.
This story was originally published March 24, 2025 at 4:10 PM.
817-380-9208
