SAN ANTONIO – At the Greater San Antonio Chamber’s annual State of the County address on Wednesday, the spotlight was on the proposed downtown Spurs arena and the future of the Frost Bank Center on the East Side.
Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai emphasized the role of Propositions A and B on the Nov.4 ballot, measures that would allow voters to weigh in on public funding for both projects.
Joining Sakai were R.C. Buford of the San Antonio Spurs and Cody Davenport of the Stock Show and Rodeo, who urged voters to be fully informed before heading to the polls.
Proposition B would authorize $311million in county funds toward a $1.3billion downtown Spurs arena. If it passes, it would increase the county hotel occupancy tax from 1.75% to 2% and extend the existing rental car tax to cover debt service for the arena.
Spurs Sports & Entertainment has pledged more than $2 billion overall for the project:
$500 million Spurs direct contribution toward the $1.3 billion arena costSpurs cover 100% of any and all cost overruns$1.4 billion Spurs guarantee, alongside private developers, in private development projects to create jobs and enhance family entertainment opportunities$75 million Spurs Community Benefits Agreement over the 30-year lease term
Proposition A, meanwhile, would raise funds for a major East Side redevelopment. That plan would transform the Frost Bank Center, Freeman Coliseum, and surrounding grounds into a year-round Stock Show and Rodeo District capable of hosting livestock exhibitions, horse shows, trade shows and more events.
Supporters say the project would protect taxpayer investments in the East Side while generating year-round revenue. Approval of Prop A would similarly extend the hotel and rental car taxes to fund the renovations; rejection would leave the venues to rely on existing funds and debt, requiring alternative financing for upgrades.
Judge Sakai framed both propositions as opportunities for growth without burdening homeowners or renters.
The Frost Bank Center cannot become the next Astrodome. That can’t happen,” he said. “We have an opportunity for growth by allowing the San Antonio Rodeo, which gives $12million a year in scholarships to its community, to continue its commitment to the East Side.
The measures are expected to draw attention in an otherwise low-turnout election, with proponents organizing campaigns to engage voters, while some critics, particularly opponents of public funding for the arena, are pushing back against Proposition B, though they remain neutral on the rodeo projects.
Early voting runs from Oct.20-31, and full details of both propositions are outlined on the Bexar County elections website for voters seeking guidance before Nov.4.