Plano voters will decide in November whether to approve a package of venue taxes aimed at helping finance a proposed $3 billion development featuring a new city-owned Dallas Stars arena.
The Plano City Council voted unanimously Monday to place the venue tax election on the November ballot. City officials say the proposed plan relies on targeted taxes that primary impact visitors and event-goers rather than raising property tax rates for local residents.
According to city documents, the proposed measures include a short-term hotel occupancy tax increase of up to 2%, a motor vehicle rental tax of up to 5%, an event parking fee of up to $3 per vehicle, an admissions tax up to 10%, and a venue facility use tax up to $5,000 per game on visiting major league athletes. City leadership estimates these venue taxes, alongside revenue generated within the Willow Bend Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone, could contribute up to $700 million toward the project near the site of The Shops at Willow Bend.
A new home is on the horizon ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/SDE7L5sYSR
— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) August 10, 2026
While council members supported moving the measure to the ballot, several local residents voiced concerns during public comments regarding potential neighborhood impacts. Neighbors urged city leaders to address traffic congestion, noise levels, and security before finalizing plans.
City officials emphasized that November's vote covers only the venue tax authorization and does not represent a final approval to build the arena complex.
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