In a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding the impact of sports stadiums on the West Side community, particularly in District 5. A local representative emphasized the need for equitable treatment of residents, expressing frustration over historical patterns of divestment and the perceived lack of benefits from previous stadium projects, such as the AT&T Center and the Alamo Dome.

The representative called for assurances from city staff that community members would be actively involved in the planning processes for new developments, particularly those led by Western Urban. They highlighted the importance of ensuring that public funds are utilized for the public good, advocating for investments in essential services like lighting, streets, and public safety, rather than allowing financial resources to be diverted away from community needs.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of financing structures associated with these projects, which the representative argued could detract from the general fund that supports vital community services. They urged a reevaluation of expectations surrounding new developments, questioning what would make the current project different from past initiatives that failed to deliver promised prosperity to local residents.

The representative concluded by referencing a book from the San Antonio Public Library, suggesting a critical examination of neoliberal policies and their historical impact on communities, further underscoring the need for transparency and accountability in local governance.