Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones interrogates Spurs’ Peter Holt as sparks fly at Project Marvel meeting

During City Council’s packed Thursday morning debate over plans for a new San Antonio Spurs arena, Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones grilled Peter Holt, chair of the team’s ownership group, whether he supports a second economic impact analysis on the project.

The fireworks began when Jones discussed a proposal she initiated that would pause negotiations with Spurs Sports & Entertainment. At that point, the mayor directly asked Holt, who was in attendance, whether he supports an independent economic study on a new arena and Project Marvel, the proposed $4 billion development of which it would be part.

“Mr. Holt, would you have an issue with the community taking a little bit more time to—” the mayor began.

District 3 Councilwoman Phyllis Viagran cut her off.

“Point of order, point of order,” an emotional Viagran said. “This was not in the presentation.”

Jones then made a motion to call Holt to testify. The motion was seconded from the dais.

“One more time, yes or no, Mr. Holt, is there an opposition to us seeking an independent economic study and allowing us additional time to engage with our constituents?” Jones said. “Just, yes or no.”

Holt paused. “I’m going to try one more time, again,” Holt finally replied. There’s ample information that shows…” He paused again, smiling, as thunderous applause rang through the council chamber. “This city deserves an urban core that we are proud of.”

However, it wasn’t all applause. Some hecklers shouted back at Holt.

“Answer the question, coward!” one man yelled.

More than 100 people signed up to speak at the meeting’s public comment period.

Expect emotions to continue running high.

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This article appears in Aug 21 – Sep 2, 2025.