Plano residents are currently deciding on Proposition A, a proposed venue tax that would help finance a new Dallas Stars arena at the former Shops at Willow Bend Mall site. As of 11 p.m. on election night, early returns indicate 46% of the votes cast (43,160) are in favor, while 54% (51,215) are against, with roughly one‑third of ballots counted.
What the measure would do
If approved, the city would impose a tax on car rentals, hotels, parking, admissions and other venues that attract visitors. City officials estimate the tax could generate between $700 million and $900 million in revenue, and they plan to cap the portion allocated to the arena at $700 million.
Opposition and concerns
Opponents, organized by the STOP The Stars Arena PAC, argue the tax could eventually raise property taxes as additional improvements are made to the arena site. PAC board member Bob Healey warned that the city lacks a finalized financing plan, a detailed tax‑revenue forecast, a site plan, and a traffic study, calling the rushed vote on November 3 a concern.
Some residents also voiced worries about the existing Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone, which already collects taxes near Willow Bend and the Dallas North Tollway to repay bonds.
Support from city leaders
Plano Mayor John Muns and Dallas Stars President & CEO Brad Alberts emphasized that the venue tax would primarily affect visitors rather than Plano homeowners, framing the measure as a way to bring economic activity and jobs to the community without burdening taxpayers.
Next steps
The arena is slated for completion by the start of the 2031 NHL season, with design work overseen by HNTB, the firm hired by the Stars in August. Should Proposition A fail, city officials say they will explore alternative financing options for the arena.
Context
This vote is part of a broader trend of Texas municipalities considering venue taxes to fund major sports facilities, a strategy that aims to boost local economies while sharing costs with out‑of‑town visitors.
Original reporting: Dallas – Ft. Worth Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
