Plano voters rejected Proposition A, a measure that would have helped fund a new Dallas Stars arena through a venue tax. With 100% of precincts reporting, about 55% of voters were against the measure and 45% supported it.
Plano leaders had planned to apply the venue tax to car rentals, parking and hotels. They estimated it would bring in $700 million to $900 million, and the city would cap its contributions toward the arena at $700 million. The arena was to be built at the current Shops at Willow Bend Mall site.
Dallas leaders are now making their pitch to keep the Stars in the city. The Dallas Stars said they are disappointed but remain committed to the project. The team said it looks forward to continuing its partnership with Plano as the city pursues a project finance zone that would need to be created by the Texas Legislature.
Plano City Manager Mark Israelson said the city will need to reassess its financing approach for the arena without authorization for the venue taxes. He said the focus will be on giving the team a clear understanding of the financial implications and options.