Early voting in Collin and Denton counties reveals a clear majority of Plano voters are against the tax measures that would fund the city’s $700 million contribution to a proposed Dallas Stars arena. According to unofficial results released on November 3, 54 % of voters – 47,552 ballots – voted “no” on Proposition A, while 46 % – 40,579 ballots – voted “yes.”
What the tax package includes
Proposition A would allow the city to levy several new taxes if approved:
- Up to a 5 % short‑term motor‑vehicle rental tax
- Short‑term hotel occupancy tax of up to 2 % of the room price
- Event‑parking fee of up to $3 per vehicle
- Admissions tax of up to 10 % of each ticket price
- Fee of up to $5,000 per game on a major‑league team that plays at the venue
These revenues are intended to cover the city’s portion of the $1 billion arena project, with the remainder coming from private developers.
Context of the arena development
The proposed arena is part of a larger $3 billion redevelopment plan for The Shops at Willow Bend, which also includes a $2 billion mixed‑use component. To help finance the arena, Plano created a tax‑increment reinvestment zone that would capture future sales‑tax growth in the area over a 41‑year period.
Early‑vote participation
A total of 88,131 voters from Collin and Denton counties cast early ballots on the measure. While the unofficial numbers show a clear opposition majority, the final results will not be official until the votes are canvassed.
Implications for the community
If the tax package fails, the city will need to explore alternative funding methods or potentially scale back the arena component of the Willow Bend redevelopment. Supporters argue the arena would bring jobs, tourism, and increased tax revenue in the long run, while opponents are concerned about the added tax burden on residents and visitors.
Next steps
City officials have pledged to keep the public informed as the canvassing process proceeds. Residents can continue to follow the vote count and see final, certified results on the Community Impact voter‑guide website.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Plano — read the source article.
