Plano, Texas – At a groundbreaking ceremony for AT&T’s new headquarters on Thursday, Mayor John Muns addressed the recent defeat of Proposition A, the city’s venue‑tax proposal that voters rejected by a 55% margin. The measure would have imposed a tax on car rentals, hotels, parking, admissions and other venues surrounding the Shops at Willow Bend Mall to help finance a new Dallas Stars arena.

Mayor’s response

“I’m disappointed to see Plano voters strike down Proposition A,” Muns said, adding that the city is now “working diligently to come up with some solutions” and will consult with the Stars organization and the arena developer. He emphasized that the city’s track record of attracting major corporations such as AT&T, Toyota and J.P. Morgan will strengthen its case for continuing the arena project.

Financial backdrop

Plano has already pledged $700 million toward the arena, which the Stars announced they intend to build at the current Shops at Willow Bend site. City officials had projected that the venue‑tax revenue could have generated between $700 million and $900 million, providing a significant portion of the financing.

Next steps

City Manager Mark Israelson indicated that the financing plan will need to be reassessed before any new action is taken. The mayor reiterated that the redevelopment of the Willow Bend area remains an “important opportunity” for the community.

Public reaction

During the first city‑council meeting after the election, residents voiced opposition to the arena, with some chanting “puck no” during the open‑comment period. Critics, including David Romick of the STOP The Stars Arena PAC, argued that the arena would increase traffic and clash with Plano’s suburban character.

Stars’ position

The Dallas Stars declined to comment directly on Muns’ remarks but released a statement on election night expressing confidence that the arena will be built in Plano. The team highlighted the projected economic benefits, job creation and long‑term community impact of a city‑owned arena.

Timeline

The Stars expect the new arena to be completed by 2031, coinciding with the expiration of their current lease at the American Airlines Center in downtown Dallas.

Plano officials will continue to explore financing alternatives, including potential state‑legislated project‑finance zones, private‑sector partnerships and other revenue mechanisms, while keeping the public informed of progress.

Original reporting: Dallas – Ft. Worth Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.