North Texas voters reject over $440 million in proposed public funding

North Texas voters have rejected three major funding measures in early election returns, turning down more than $440 million in proposed spending for public safety, housing, and sports infrastructure.

The rejections span local government levels, including a Dallas County property tax increase, a City of Dallas bond, and a Plano special venue tax.

The Dallas County Proposition A tax hike aimed to raise revenue for homelessness outreach, housing support, and mental health treatment. With 80% of precincts reporting, the measure is failing.

In the City of Dallas, voters are also rejecting Proposition A, a bond exceeding $440 million. The funding was designated for police training facilities, emergency operations, and the replacement of aging police buildings. Proponents, including the city manager, described the bond as a necessary step to modernize public safety operations and finish the new police training facility at UNT Dallas, which broke ground in September. A new gun range near Dallas Executive Airport is also part of the plan.

Critics opposed the bond because it includes moving the city’s 911 call center out of Dallas City Hall. They argue this move signals the beginning of the city’s abandonment of the historic building. The campaign supporting the bond stated it will seek better bond language next May.

In Plano, 55% of voters cast ballots against the special venue tax in Proposition A. This tax was intended to help pay for a new Dallas Stars arena at the Willow Bend site. Local leaders said they will identify another funding source for the project. Construction on the arena continues, and the Stars plan to open their 2031 season at the new facility.

These results reflect a rejection of new financial burdens by voters in these jurisdictions. The Dallas Stars arena remains under construction, and the city’s police training facility at UNT Dallas continues toward completion despite the bond failure.