San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones Calls for Public Vote on Spurs Arena Project

Push for Referendum After City Council Rejects Delay

San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones is urging that residents have a direct voice in deciding whether public funds should be committed to Project Marvel—a $1.2 billion downtown development centered on a new San Antonio Spurs arena.

Her call comes after the City Council voted against her request to pause negotiations with developers and the Spurs until more details were reviewed. In a 4-7 vote, council members rejected Jones’ motion to delay, dealing a setback to her transparency efforts.

Council Approves Term Sheet Despite Mayor’s Concerns

Just days later, council members voted 7-4 in favor of a non-binding term sheet. The agreement outlines a potential city contribution of $489 million, securing a 30-year commitment from the Spurs to remain in San Antonio.

At a press conference, Jones emphasized that San Antonians deserve a voice:

“If we’re going to invest in the Spurs’ future downtown, the community should be part of that decision.”

What Project Marvel Includes

The proposed development is envisioned as a multi-use complex featuring:

• A state-of-the-art Spurs arena

• Retail and entertainment spaces

• Housing developments

Supporters believe the project could spark downtown revitalization, strengthen tourism, and ensure the Spurs’ long-term presence.

Criticism and Concerns from Opponents

Opponents argue that the development risks diverting money from essential city services and could place a heavy burden on taxpayers. Community groups have urged prioritization of affordable housing, flood control, and infrastructure before subsidizing an arena.

Former Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff clarified that the funding mechanism—visitor taxes and project-generated revenues—cannot legally be redirected toward anti-poverty programs or flood control.

County Referendum May Decide Project’s Fate

While San Antonio’s $489 million contribution does not require a public vote, Bexar County’s share of $311 million will. Officials have scheduled a referendum to let voters decide whether to raise hotel and rental car taxes to fund the project. Without voter approval, the county’s contribution could fall through, jeopardizing the arena plan.

For Jones to bring city revenue bonds to voters, she would need another City Council vote. Having lost two recent council votes on Project Marvel, she must persuade at least two members to shift their stance for a referendum to move forward.