Missouri Faces Crucial Decision to Retain Chiefs and Royals
Missouri Gov. Mike Parson is optimistic about the state formulating an aid plan by the year's end to keep the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals. The teams, which have shared neighboring stadiums in eastern Kansas City for over five decades, face uncertain futures with their leases expiring in 2031.
Kansas Steps Up
While Missouri contemplates its next move, Kansas has already extended a lucrative offer. The neighboring state has approved a financing scheme that covers up to 70% of the costs for new stadiums for the Chiefs and Royals. This proposal puts Kansas in a competitive position to lure the teams across state lines.
Stadium Futures in the Balance
Royals owner John Sherman has stated unequivocally that the team has no plans to continue playing in Kauffman Stadium beyond the 2030 season. This declaration comes on the heels of Jackson County voters rejecting a sales tax proposal in April that would have supported a more than $2 billion downtown ballpark district for the Royals. The proposal also included an $800 million renovation of the Chiefs' Arrowhead Stadium.
Legislative Hurdles in Missouri
Governor Parson has made it clear that any proposal for Missouri to retain its sports franchises will need legislative approval. This requirement adds an extra layer of complexity, as it will require the backing of Parson's successor and the new legislative body. Parson himself does not foresee summoning a special legislative session before his term concludes in January.
Financial Realities
The discussions surrounding stadium financing are not unique to Missouri and Kansas. Jacksonville recently struck a $1.25 billion stadium renovation deal for the NFL's Jaguars, with costs shared equally between the city and the team. This serves as a pertinent example of how cities and teams can negotiate mutually beneficial agreements.
Parson is keenly aware of the stakes. "We're going to make sure that we put the best business deal we can on the line," he said. "I think by the end of this year, we're going to have something in place."
Strategic Moves
Parson's statements suggest that Missouri will be proactive but carefully measured in its approach. He emphasized the need for competitiveness, stating, "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." Moreover, he acknowledged the economic significance of the teams, "The Kansas City Chiefs and Royals are big business."
The governor also highlighted the importance of a financially sound plan, saying, "Has to work out on paper, where it's going to be beneficial to the taxpayers of Missouri."
Immediate Future
While Missouri works on its strategy, discussions between the sports teams and the Kansas Department of Commerce could commence at any moment. The Kansas agency, however, has no formal timeline for finishing a deal, adding another layer of uncertainty to the situation.
Ultimately, the clock is ticking for Missouri to formulate a compelling proposal that will keep the Chiefs and Royals on their home turf. As the year draws to a close, all eyes will be on both states to see who can offer the most enticing package to secure these major league franchises.