Missouri's Strategy to Retain Chiefs and Royals Takes Shape
Missouri Governor Mike Parson is optimistic that by the end of this year, the state will develop a robust aid plan aimed at keeping the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals within its borders. Amid recent developments and competitive offers from neighboring Kansas, the urgency to finalize an effective retention strategy is paramount.
"We're going to make sure that we put the best business deal we can on the line," Parson stated, underscoring his commitment to making Missouri an attractive home for these iconic sports franchises.
Kansas Steps Up the Game
Kansas has already made a compelling move, greenlighting a financing scheme that could cover up to 70% of the costs for new stadiums for both teams. This significant financial support puts pressure on Missouri to respond with a competitive proposal of its own.
For over half a century, the Chiefs and Royals have been sharing neighboring stadiums in eastern Kansas City. However, their current leases are set to expire in 2031, and both teams are weighing their options.
The situation is particularly pressing for the Royals. John Sherman, the team’s owner, has been clear about his intentions: the Royals have no plans to play in Kauffman Stadium beyond the 2030 season.
Missouri’s Previous Efforts Stumble
Missouri's attempt to secure a future for its sports teams faced a setback in April when Jackson County voters rejected a sales tax proposal. The proposal would have funded a more than $2 billion downtown ballpark district for the Royals and contributed to an $800 million renovation of the Chiefs' iconic Arrowhead Stadium.
Moving forward, any new proposal to retain the Chiefs and Royals will require legislative approval as well as the support of Parson’s successor and the next legislative body. Parson himself does not anticipate calling a special legislative session before his term concludes in January.
Balancing Business and Benefits
"I think by the end of this year, we're going to have something in place," Parson predicted. His optimism reflects Missouri's determination to present a competitive offer that aligns with both business interests and taxpayer benefits. "Has to work out on paper, where it's going to be beneficial to the taxpayers of Missouri," Parson emphasized.
He also acknowledged the challenging competitive landscape. "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," he stated, acknowledging the shrewd maneuvers by Kansas.
Comparison with Other Deals
Other cities have tackled similar challenges with varied outcomes. For instance, Jacksonville recently finalized a $1.25 billion stadium renovation deal for the NFL's Jaguars, with costs being split between the city and the team. Missouri might draw on such examples to formulate its approach.
Meanwhile, discussions between the Chiefs, Royals, and the Kansas Department of Commerce could start at any moment. However, the agency has not set a specific timeline for completing a deal, leaving room for strategic maneuvering by both states.
The Stakes are High
As the Chiefs and Royals assess their options, the stakes for Missouri remain high. Retaining these franchises is about more than just sports; it’s about preserving a significant part of the region's identity and economic engine. "The Kansas City Chiefs and Royals are big business," Parson stated, underlining the broader impact of these teams beyond the ballpark and football field.
Ultimately, Missouri's proposed plan will aim to safeguard this legacy while negotiating terms that make fiscal sense for the state. Fans, taxpayers, and stakeholders alike await the unfolding of this high-stakes play, one that will shape the future of Kansas City’s storied sports franchises.