Early voting for Proposition A is set to begin this week, and Plano voters are already voicing strong opinions about the measure. The ballot initiative would authorize a package of venue taxes intended to fund a city‑owned arena that the city plans to lease to the Dallas Stars for the next thirty years, once the team’s current lease at the American Airlines Center ends in 2031.
Supporters of the arena argue that a modern facility will keep the professional hockey team in the region and generate economic activity. Opponents, however, contend that the tax burden would fall on local taxpayers without guaranteeing a return on investment.
During a recent Tuesday night meeting held in the sanctuary of a Plano church, members of the “Stop the Stars Arena” committee presented their case against the measure. Karen Dubrow, a vocal critic, opened the session with a colorful remark, saying, “The day an arena fits in a suburb area like Willow Bend is a day pigs fly,” while displaying sky‑blue socks dotted with winged pigs.
Dubrow and other committee members emphasized concerns about the proposed tax structure, questioning whether the financing plan truly serves the community’s best interests. They highlighted the long‑term lease—three decades—suggesting that the financial commitment could lock the city into a costly arrangement.
Adding a creative touch to the discussion, resident Jody Venturoni recited a Dr. Seuss‑style poem she wrote for the audience: “Self‑funded sounds swell, and it sounds like a thrill. But the dome gets the gold, and you get the bill.” The verse underscored the sentiment that while the arena may bring excitement, the tax bill would ultimately be shouldered by Plano families.
The proposed arena would be built on the current site of The Shops at Willow Bend, a location already familiar to many residents. Proponents argue that the site offers ample space and accessibility, while opponents worry about traffic, congestion, and the impact on existing businesses.
City officials have not yet released a detailed breakdown of the tax rates or the projected revenue the arena is expected to generate. The lack of concrete financial projections has fueled further skepticism among voters who are seeking transparency before casting their ballots.
As early voting approaches, the community remains divided. Residents are encouraged to review the full text of Proposition A, attend upcoming public forums, and consider how the proposed taxes align with their priorities for fiscal responsibility and community development.
The outcome of the vote will determine whether Plano moves forward with the arena project or seeks alternative solutions for the Dallas Stars’ future home.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
