Missouri Gov. Mike Parson is optimistic about the state’s plans to keep the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals from relocating, with an aid plan expected to be formulated by year-end. The urgency to create a feasible plan comes as Kansas has already given the green light to a financing scheme that will cover up to 70% of the costs for new stadiums for the Chiefs and Royals.
Challenges Ahead
The Chiefs and Royals, who have been neighbors in their current stadiums in eastern Kansas City for over half a century, face expiring leases in 2031. Royals owner John Sherman has indicated that the team does not intend to continue playing at Kauffman Stadium beyond the 2030 season, adding pressure on Missouri to come up with an attractive proposal to retain them.
Compounding the challenge, Jackson County voters recently rejected a sales tax proposal in April that would have significantly contributed to funding a more than $2 billion downtown ballpark district for the Royals and an $800 million makeover of Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Chiefs. Without this financial support, the task of crafting a competitive proposal becomes even more daunting.
Legislative Hurdles
Any viable proposal to keep these teams in Missouri will require legislative approval and the support of Parson’s successor and a new legislative body. Parson, whose term concludes in January, said he does not plan to summon a special legislative session before then.
Despite these hurdles, Parson remains steadfast in his commitment. "We're going to make sure that we put the best business deal we can on the line," he emphasized. "I think by the end of this year, we're going to have something in place."
Regional Competition
The competitive landscape is further intensified by Kansas, which has positioned itself as an appealing alternative for the teams. Discussions between the sports teams and the Kansas Department of Commerce could begin at any time, though the agency has no set timeline for finalizing a deal. "The Kansas City Chiefs and Royals are big business," Parson remarked. "You know, if I was probably sitting there, I'd be doing the same thing. But at the end of the day, we're going to be competitive."
Looking for a Win-Win
A major concern in Missouri's plans will be balancing the need to keep these iconic teams while ensuring taxpayer benefits. "It has to work out on paper, where it's going to be beneficial to the taxpayers of Missouri," Parson noted.
Other cities have managed to strike a balance recently; for example, Jacksonville’s $1.25 billion stadium renovation deal for the NFL’s Jaguars splits costs between the city and the team. This model could be a reference point for Missouri as they draft their proposal.
Though the clock is ticking, Parson's optimism and commitment signal a strong push to retain the Chiefs and Royals. The upcoming months will be crucial as the state aims to solidify a proposal that secures the future of these teams in Kansas City, benefiting fans and residents alike.