The Dallas Stars moved one step closer Monday to making Plano the future home of the franchise after city leaders unanimously approved several measures tied to a proposed arena and sports and entertainment district at The Shops at Willow Bend. The Plano City Council voted 8 to 0 to approve a nonb inding letter of intent with the Dallas Stars, an incentive agreement with development partners, the creation of a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone and a resolution that could eventually lead to a public vote on venue taxes to help fund the project. The proposed development would be anchored by a new multipurpose arena that would serve as the future home ice for the Stars. Plans also call for additional sports and entertainment venues, retail, restaurants, residential development, public spaces and infrastructure improvements around The Shops at Willow Bend. The city approved a plan that would use some $700 million in public funds for public infrastructure. However, the project cost estimates are subject to change, as noted in preliminary project and finance plan. The overall cost of the mixed-use project is estimated at $3 billion. The hockey arena itself, $1 billion. The council’s approval allows the city to pursue funding opportunities, continue negotiations with project partners and begin additional planning work. Residents packed the meeting and voiced both support and concerns about the proposal. “I don’t oppose the Stars arena. I think the project is remarkable for Plano. But there’s an infrastructure gap that I believe has not been addressed,” resident Drew Nickerson said. Another resident urged city leaders to move carefully. “The projects will bring economic vitality and great amenities to Plano. We ask that they be implemented thoughtfully,” the resident said. Others raised concerns about how the development could transform the area. “In effect, we are being asked to reform Willow Bend from a retail destination into a regional entertainment destination. Before taking that step, residents deserve clear answers,” resident Rene Elgersma said. Plano City Council member Bob Kehr emphasized that the process is still in its early stages. “This is really just the beginning. This is really where we’re getting a chance to really get started. I wanted to say the residents all have their chance to give us plenty of input,” Kehr said. Following the vote, Mayor John Muns said the city is evaluating the opportunity presented by the Stars organization. “Plano has built a reputation as a city that welcomes world-class partners and community-focused investment,” Muns said in a statement. “These actions are a significant first step as we evaluate the potential for a thoughtfully designed sports and entertainment district that reflects the priorities and values of our community.” The newly created Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone includes The Shops at Willow Bend and surrounding nonresidential property along the Dallas North Tollway. City officials said the zone would help support future infrastructure and development needs tied to the project. Under state law, the venue project resolution must be submitted to the Texas Comptroller before the city can call an election. If approved, Plano could hold a venue tax election as early as Nov. 3, 2026. Potential ballot propositions could include taxes on hotel stays, short-term vehicle rentals, event parking, event admissions and venue use by professional team members. City officials said those revenues would help support construction of the arena and related infrastructure. Residents will have additional opportunities to provide feedback during community open houses scheduled for July 8 and July 14 at The Shops at Willow Bend. A virtual open house will also be available from July 8 through July 22. City officials said traffic modeling and mobility studies will be among the next steps as planners evaluate how a sports and entertainment district could affect surrounding roads, parking, pedestrian access and traffic flow. Steven Levin, Managing Partner of Centennial Waterfall Willow Bend, LLC, which owns The Shops at Willow Bend, addressed reporters after the meeting. He responded to resident concerns about worsening traffic. “We’re very focused on making sure that the traffic is managed in the best way that it could possibly be managed,” said Levin. “The last thing we want is someone that doesn’t love coming to a place that we own. The Stars don’t want people leaving and feeling like ‘oh my God it’s terrible to get out of here.’ And the City of Plano is just as concerned.” Mayor Muns shared thoughts on recent statements made by Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, who said Dallas is in competition with neighboring cities for attractions, businesses and residents. “Our doors are open and we’re open for business. And we didn’t pursue ATT or the Dallas Stars, they came to us,” said Muns. “And we wanted to make sure they understood we welcome them with open arms, and we hope that all goes well and the Stars will be here in ’31.” Muns elaborated on his push back against those who’ve called the move a corporate bailout. “I think the real truth of what you see right now is that Willow Bend Mall is really the bullseye for season ticket holders,” he said. “And that’ll change in 20 or 30 years as well. But right now, the Tollway-Bush corridor is kind of the center of where all the season tickets holders are.” While many details remain to be finalized, Monday’s votes marked the most significant step to date toward bringing the Dallas Stars to Plano. ...read more read less