Missouri Gov. Mike Parson is keen on securing the future of the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals within the state. As the expiration of their current leases approaches in 2031, he anticipates that Missouri will formulate an aid plan to retain both teams by the year’s end.
Kansas’ Bold Move
In a significant development, Kansas has already approved a financing scheme that covers up to 70% of the costs for new stadiums for the Chiefs and Royals. This move has added pressure on Missouri to present a competitive offer to keep these iconic sports franchises on their side of the border.
For over half a century, the Chiefs and Royals have shared neighboring stadiums in eastern Kansas City, creating a rich tapestry of shared history and local culture. However, change is imminent, especially for the Royals, whose owner, John Sherman, has been explicit about the team’s intention not to play in Kauffman Stadium beyond the 2030 season. This sense of urgency is compounded by the fact that Jackson County voters recently rejected a sales tax proposal that would have funded more than $2 billion for a downtown ballpark district for the Royals and an $800 million renovation of the Chiefs' Arrowhead Stadium.
The Political Hurdles
Any substantial proposal from Missouri to retain these sports teams will necessitate legislative approval, as well as the endorsement from Parson's successor and the new legislative body. Parson has clarified that he does not plan to convene a special legislative session before his term concludes in January.
"We're going to make sure that we put the best business deal we can on the line," Parson remarked, emphasizing the state's commitment to both the Chiefs and the Royals. "I think by the end of this year, we're going to have something in place."
Comparative Deals
Looking at other cities, the recent $1.25 billion stadium renovation deal in Jacksonville for the NFL's Jaguars offers a potential blueprint. That agreement splits costs between the city and the team, setting a precedent that Missouri might consider emulating.
Without a doubt, the negotiations in Kansas reflect the high stakes involved. Discussions between the sports teams and the Kansas Department of Commerce could commence at any moment, although the agency has not set a definitive timeline for finalizing a deal. Parson remained pragmatic about the competitive landscape, saying, "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."
Economic Considerations
The economic implications of retaining these teams cannot be overstated. "The Kansas City Chiefs and Royals are big business," Parson said, acknowledging the financial clout of these franchises. Any effective deal "has to work out on paper, where it's going to be beneficial to the taxpayers of Missouri."
With the clock ticking and Kansas making a bold bid, the coming months will be crucial for Missouri and its efforts to secure the future of the Chiefs and Royals within the state. Parson's forward-looking statements encapsulate the shared hope and determination to keep these beloved teams in their long-standing Kansas City homes.