San Antonio Spurs Arena Project Pushes Forward Despite Mayor’s Objections

City Council Moves Ahead with $489 Million Commitment as Debate Over Economic Impact Intensifies

San Antonio is pressing forward with plans to build a new downtown arena for the Spurs, even as strong concerns from the city’s newly elected mayor create friction at City Hall. On Thursday, the City Council voted 7–4 in favor of approving a nonbinding framework that could allocate up to $489 million in city funding toward the project.

The decision marks a significant early setback for Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones, who had urged her colleagues to delay the vote until an independent economic analysis could be conducted. Despite her request, momentum behind the project is now accelerating, especially as voters prepare for a pivotal November election that will determine whether Bexar County contributes to the deal.

Clash Between Council and Mayor

Mayor Jones argued that rushing forward without a thorough economic review could put taxpayers at risk and weaken public confidence. She emphasized the importance of due diligence, reminding council members that past missteps have left the community grappling with long-term consequences.

“This is about making sure people have the data and are part of the conversation,” Jones said. “Hope is not a strategy.”

Her position, however, was not enough to sway the council majority, which maintained that delaying action could jeopardize the timeline and undermine negotiations with the Spurs.

Supporters Say Public Deserves the Full Picture

Council members who voted in favor of the agreement argued that the public should see the complete proposal before heading to the ballot box. They believe that presenting the full financial framework, rather than withholding details until late in the process, allows voters to make a more informed choice.

Assistant City Manager Lori Houston explained, “We want this information available so the public can cast an educated vote in November. Waiting until the last minute would not serve anyone well.”

What the Term Sheet Includes

The approved term sheet outlines how the $1.3 billion project would be funded and what commitments the Spurs would make in return:

• $500 million from the Spurs

• $311 million from Bexar County’s proposed venue tax increase, which will go before voters in November

• Up to $489 million from a city bond, capped at 38% of the total cost and not requiring voter approval

As part of the agreement, the Spurs pledged to contribute $75 million over 30 years to benefit community programs. The term sheet also states the team will not explore relocation opportunities before the November vote.

Rising Questions Over Cost and Timing

While the project cost is now estimated at $1.3 billion—down from the initial $1.5 billion projection—critics worry the burden on taxpayers could still grow. Spurs officials have said the team will cover any expenses beyond the agreed funding sources, but skepticism remains over whether anticipated revenues from the arena district will fully offset the city’s bond contribution.

Mayor Jones has signaled she will continue pushing for a citywide referendum on the $489 million portion, even though it is not legally required.

What Happens Next

The future of the arena now rests in part with Bexar County voters, who will decide on November 4 whether to approve the venue tax increase. This levy, generated through hotel stays and rental car fees, would supply a crucial piece of the financing puzzle.

If everything moves forward as planned, the new arena could be ready in time for the 2032–33 NBA season, cementing the Spurs’ presence in San Antonio for decades to come.