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Missouri Voters Reject Stadium Tax for Royals and Chiefs, Future Uncertain

By Jayson Henderson

Kansas City, Missouri – In a decisive move on Tuesday night (April 3, 2024), residents of Jackson County, Missouri, cast their votes against a proposed sales tax measure aimed at financing a new downtown ballpark and substantial renovations to Arrowhead Stadium. The initiative faced strong opposition, resulting in over 58% of voters rejecting the proposal.

Royals owner John Sherman and Chiefs president Mark Donovan had anticipated the outcome well before the final vote count. The proposed measure sought to replace a portion of the existing sales tax, which has been funding the maintenance of Truman Sports Complex for over five decades, with a similar tax over the next 40 years.

Under the proposed plan, the Royals intended to contribute at least $1 billion towards a $2 billion ballpark district, while the Super Bowl champion Chiefs had pledged $300 million for an $800 million overhaul of Arrowhead Stadium.

Expressing disappointment, Sherman emphasized the value of both teams to Jackson County, citing his personal ties to the community. Donovan echoed Sherman’s sentiments, asserting the Chiefs’ commitment to their fans and organization moving forward.

Despite the setback, options remain open for the teams. They may reconsider their proposal, explore alternative funding approaches, or entertain offers from other regions seeking to provide public funding. The current lease at Truman Sports Complex extends through January 2031.

The proposal faced criticism from the outset, with concerns over transparency and the chosen stadium locations. Efforts by the Royals to finalize a site were complicated by delays and changes in plans, ultimately resulting in vague proposals and unresolved land agreements.

While the Royals aimed for an Opening Day debut in 2028, uncertainties surrounding land agreements and community concerns persisted. The Chiefs, on the other hand, emphasized the importance of financing to revitalize Arrowhead Stadium, emphasizing their ongoing connection with fans and the stadium’s significance in NFL history.