A bold move to secure the future of the San Antonio Spurs took center stage at the Bexar County Commissioners Court meeting on June 10, 2025. County Judge Nelson Wolff emphasized the importance of keeping the Spurs in the downtown area, framing it as a pivotal moment for both the team and the community.
Wolff proposed integrating the Willow Springs Golf Course into an economic development package aimed at revitalizing the area. He acknowledged concerns about corporate welfare but defended tax abatements for businesses that demonstrate a solid return on investment. "I will always support those tax abatements to those corporations that have a return on investment because they give back," he stated, highlighting the positive impact of such investments on local manufacturing and job creation.
The discussion also touched on the financial structure of any potential public financing for the Spurs, with Wolff clarifying that it would not burden homeowners or vulnerable populations. Instead, he proposed utilizing a tourist tax, which would primarily affect visitors to the city. "This is not going to fall on the homeowners' property tax," he assured, referencing a successful model used for a previous baseball stadium.
Wolff called for collaboration among the court members, urging them to work together to create a "game-changing" opportunity for the East Side of San Antonio while supporting the Spurs. He expressed confidence in the team's commitment to community engagement, stating, "I'm convinced [the Spurs] give back more than they get."
The motion to move forward with negotiations passed, signaling a commitment to explore options that could benefit both the Spurs and the local economy. As the court prepares for further discussions, the focus remains on finding a solution that aligns with community values and economic growth.