AUSTIN - Today, State Senator Royce West (D-Dallas) filed Senate Bill 1111, legislation that would give Dallas County the ability to establish a sports authority to finance sports-related venues within its jurisdiction. In recent years, Dallas Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones has discussed building a new facility for the football team. If this legislation is successful, that location could be in Dallas County.

"Over the past few months, I have been in contact with Jerry Jones and other parties representing the Dallas Cowboys," said Senator West. "Those discussions intensified when Mr. Jones was in Austin a few weeks ago. The chance to build a new stadium and surrounding development in Dallas County represents a unique opportunity that should be further explored. A project of this magnitude could provide a tremendous economic impact that would benefit the entire North Texas region."

Senator West has received the support of the Dallas County Senate delegation. Fellow area Senators Florence Shapiro, Robert Duell, Chris Harris and John Carona have agreed to co-sponsor the bill. Senate Bill 1111 would authorize the creation of a tax that could be applied to car rentals and hotel rates. The bill is specific to Dallas County residents. Senator West sees creation of the Dallas Sports Authority through statute as a major step in securing the multi-faceted stadium complex for Dallas County.

"Growing up in Dallas I suppose I could be characterized as a longtime Dallas Cowboys fan," said Senator West. "Besides my constant advocacy for education and my involvement with bringing a four-year university to Dallas, it would be hard for me to top being instrumental in building a new home for the Cowboys. Of course that decision would ultimately rest with the voters. I am pleased that the Dallas County Senate delegation is united in the effort to bring that choice to the citizens."

Plans are for The Dallas Cowboy complex to be anchored by a domed 75,000 seat stadium that will include a retractable roof. The stadium will expand to accommodate 100,000 visitors. End zone areas will give way to a retail development that includes a hotel, restaurants, shops, museums, office space and sports entertainment venues. Adjacent sports fields will be available for youth activities. Cowboy officials envision attracting other major events on a year-round basis. Senator West calls the potential of keeping the Cowboys in Dallas County through a project that will serve as an economic catalyst, a win-win proposition.

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