Frank DeSimone and Gary Cary, neighbors in the Willow Bend area, are longtime Stars fans.
But they are not yet convinced the team’s proposed move to the Shops at Willow Bend in Plano is the right decision.
“I love the Stars and I love Plano too,” DeSimone told WFAA. Still, the prospect of a new arena nearby has raised concerns.
“To me it seems premature.”
Plano voters can weigh in on Proposition A starting Monday during early voting. If approved, the measure would allow the city to impose venue-related taxes and fees on items such as hotel stays, rental cars and arena parking.
Plano Independent School District is set to contribute over $250 million over 25 years to a city redevelopment project, the district states.
According to a press release, the district contributes a portion of property taxes the community pays back to the state through the recapture program. The recapture program means the districts put money back into the state, in this case, the district is choosing to put money back into their own city. In an agreement with Plano City Council, that was approved on Oct. 12, the district plans to put that money towards redevelopment projects within the city.
Cary attended Monday’s City Council meeting, where city leaders received an update on the arena proposal. He said questions remain, including how the project could affect traffic in the area.
“I think some of the challenges are going to be very difficult to solve, like traffic,” Cary said. On Monday Plano Mayor John Muns said Proposition A would not raise property taxes.
Dallas Stars leaders have also argued the proposed fees would be paid by people attending events at the venue.
“Those that will go to the venue, go to the concerts, go to the games, will be the ones who pay for these fees,” Muns said.
For DeSimone and Cary, their enthusiasm for the team is clear. But they are still weighing what a new arena could mean for their neighborhood.