The Dallas Stars are at the center of a growing contest over their future location after Plano City Council Member Chad West disclosed that Plano has officially presented an offer to the NHL team to relocate to Collin County. This development emerges amid ongoing talks between the Stars and the City of Dallas to extend their stay at the American Airlines Center beyond the current lease, which expires in 2031.
West described the situation to CBS News Texas as a competitive bid for a franchise that many regional cities are eager to host.
The Stars are the popular kid getting asked to the dance right now,
West said.
“Everybody in the region knows their contract is expiring in 2031, and they are interested in bringing the Stars to their city. Why wouldn’t they be? They’re a fantastic team. Stanley Cup champions. So bring it on. Healthy competition is a good thing.”
— Chad West, Plano City Council Member
Despite Plano’s formal letter of intent, the Stars have yet to sign the document or publicly respond to the city’s overture.
Thank you for reaching out,
said Joe Calvillo, a spokesperson for the Stars.
We’re going to decline to comment on this matter.
— Joe Calvillo, Dallas Stars Spokesperson
Plano Maintains Silence on Negotiations
Plano city officials have not confirmed the submission of the letter of intent but emphasized that the city frequently attracts interest from major businesses. They noted that they do not make statements about economic development talks until such matters reach the city council for formal consideration.
Plano is known to be attractive to national and international corporations, and we are home to numerous iconic brands,
the city stated.
Due to the strong interest in Plano and competition within the region, we do not publicly comment on speculation or economic development projects until they are brought to Council for formal adoption.
The city’s economic position has gained increased focus recently, especially as Plano prepares to host AT&T’s global headquarters. This upcoming relocation will unite thousands of employees on a new campus, further establishing Plano as a major corporate hub.
This corporate growth, paired with Plano’s efforts to draw additional key employers, has intensified regional rivalry for notable developments—including the future arena prospects for the Dallas Stars.
Dallas Continues Efforts to Retain the Team
Dallas remains actively engaged with the Stars, exploring options to keep the franchise at the American Airlines Center. Discussions include plans to potentially convert the arena into a venue tailored specifically for hockey. The city insists the team has not committed to any alternative offers as negotiations proceed.
I think that we, as the City of Dallas, need to take it very seriously that there is at least one city talking to the Stars,
West explained.
I highly believe there’s probably others who are as well. I’ve heard Arlington — haven’t confirmed it — but I’ve heard Arlington is very interested. I’m friends with the mayor out there. I know he would love to have more sports teams with ‘Dallas’ name in front of them in their city. But you know what? Bring on the competition.
— Chad West, Plano City Council Member
The arena discussions involving the Stars occur alongside the Dallas Mavericks‘ search for a new home, signaling the possibility that the two longtime co-tenants of the American Airlines Center may eventually part ways. The Mavericks are currently considering locations both downtown and in North Dallas near the former Valley View Mall site.
Both the Stars and the Mavericks are leased through 2031 at the American Airlines Center, making the outcome of these negotiations critical for the future of sports venues in the region.
Increasing Regional Competition for Major Sports Venues
The rivalry to secure the Dallas Stars as a tenant highlights the shifting dynamics in North Texas’ sports and development landscape. With Plano’s growing influence as a corporate destination, alongside Arlington‘s expressed interest, the Dallas Stars arena negotiations have become a significant factor in local economic strategies.
The stadium decision will not only affect where the team plays for the next decade but will also impact the surrounding economies of Dallas, Plano, and possibly Arlington. A move to Collin County could strengthen Plano’s position as a major sports and entertainment hub, while Dallas strives to retain an iconic franchise tied closely to the city’s identity.
Both cities are preparing to present their strongest offers, indicating an intense competition that reflects the importance of sports franchises in regional development and community pride. The team’s next steps will be closely watched by fans, officials, and businesses as the 2031 lease expiration draws closer.
