Missouri Governor Mike Parson is taking decisive steps to keep Kansas City's beloved Chiefs and Royals from moving across the border to Kansas. With their stadium leases not expiring until 2031, the urgency of this initiative is somewhat unexpected. However, Kansas has become an enticing option after approving a plan to finance up to 70% of the cost for new stadiums for both teams.
The Chiefs and Royals have both called side-by-side stadiums in eastern Kansas City their home for over 50 years. However, the Royals' commitment to Kauffman Stadium is coming to an end, with owner John Sherman declaring that the team will not play there beyond the 2030 season. Without a feasible plan in place to build a new stadium within Missouri, the threat of relocation loomed large after Jackson County voters rejected a sales tax in April. This tax would have funded a significant downtown ballpark district costing over $2 billion and included an $800 million renovation of the Chiefs' Arrowhead Stadium.
Governor Parson aims to have an aid package formulated by the end of the year to keep the teams in Missouri. "We’re going to make sure that we put the best business deal we can on the line," Parson said, emphasizing his determination to keep the Chiefs and Royals in Kansas City. He understands the stakes and the attraction Kansas holds. "Look, I can't blame Kansas for trying. 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," Parson remarked, showing that he is well aware of the regional dynamics at play.
The economic implications of potentially losing these teams are significant. "The Kansas City Chiefs and Royals are big business," Parson added, underscoring the substantial economic impact these franchises have on the local economy. The introduction of an aid package needs to balance financial feasibility with taxpayer interests. "Has to work out on paper, where it's going to be beneficial to the taxpayers of Missouri," Parson insisted, highlighting the critical requirement of ensuring that any proposed deals would not unfairly burden the state's residents.
Parson believes that despite the challenges, a viable solution can be reached within the year. "I think by the end of this year, we’re going to have something in place to propose for the stadiums," he confidently stated. Although his term ends in January, and he does not anticipate calling a special legislative session before leaving office, his initiative sets a foundation for future discussions and decisions.
In contrast, Jacksonville, Florida, recently approved a $1.25 billion stadium renovation for the NFL's Jaguars, splitting the costs between the city and the team. This might serve as an example for Missouri's forthcoming plans, stressing cooperation between public and private entities to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome.
The Kansas Department of Commerce, likewise, has kept its cards close to its chest, not setting a timeline for finalizing a potential deal to lure the Chiefs and Royals across state lines. For Missouri, the race against time and against a competing bid is clear. Parson's proactive stance may prove essential in ensuring that Kansas City retains its cherished football and baseball franchises.
This unfolding narrative between Missouri and Kansas highlights the high stakes involved when two states compete to house major league teams. With substantial economic considerations and deeply rooted fan bases, the final outcome will undoubtedly be closely watched by sports enthusiasts and economic analysts alike.