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San Antonio City Council rejects November vote on $489 million Spurs arena plan
WOAI • • nation
Key Points:
- The San Antonio City Council voted 6-5 against placing the city's proposed $489 million contribution for a new downtown Spurs arena on the November ballot, meaning voters will not have a direct say on this funding.
- Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones advocated for the public vote, citing the importance of resident input and concerns over the city's financial situation and changes in the sports and entertainment district.
- The city is not legally required to seek voter approval for its funding share and can proceed under the financing plan approved last year.
- The approved financing framework includes $500 million from the Spurs (covering any cost overruns), $489 million from the city, and $311 million from Bexar County, which voters approved in November 2025.
- The City Council previously approved a nonbinding term sheet in August 2025 outlining the arena financing structure, allowing the project to move forward despite the lack of a citywide vote.
