San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones has proposed a vote on public funding for the San Antonio Spurs’ new downtown arena. The arena, part of Project Marvel, is expected to cost $1.3 billion and is scheduled to host the team beginning in 2030.

Background

In November 2025, Bexar County voters approved using $311 million in hotel tax dollars for the arena. The city has also committed $489 million in funding, which does not require a public vote. However, Mayor Jones believes that city voters should have a say in the matter, as they will be contributing to both the county’s and the city’s funding for the arena.

Proponents of using public dollars argue that visitors are paying for the arena, not locals, since the funding comes from hospitality and hotel taxes. Critics, on the other hand, argue that the project takes money that could flow into the city’s general fund. The city is currently facing a $158 million budget deficit, and Mayor Jones believes that voters should be informed about what they are receiving in return for their investment.

Next Steps

The deadline for additions to the November ballot is August 17. If the proposal is approved, city voters will have the opportunity to vote on the public funding for the arena.

Original reporting: San Antonio Report — read the source article.