Parson Aims to Keep Chiefs and Royals in Missouri
The fierce cross-border rivalry between Missouri and Kansas has taken a new turn as Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced plans to formulate an aid package to retain the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals within Missouri's borders. This move comes as a reaction to Kansas' aggressive plan to finance up to 70% of new stadiums' costs for the professional football and baseball teams. With Governor Parson's term ending in January, the clock is ticking.
Both teams have deep roots in Missouri, having played for over 50 years in side-by-side stadiums in eastern Kansas City. However, the urgency is compounded by comments from Royals owner John Sherman, who has stated that the team will not play at Kauffman Stadium beyond the 2030 season. Their current leases extend until 2031, heightening the need for decisive action.
Governor Parson has publicly underscored the importance of keeping these teams in Missouri, saying, "We're going to make sure that we put the best business deal we can on the line." Parson understands the draw of Kansas' lucrative offer but remains committed to crafting a competitive package.
Managing the economics is a central focus, as Governor Parson emphasized, "Has to work out on paper, where it's going to be beneficial to the taxpayers of Missouri." Ensuring the financial viability of any proposed deal remains a priority. He also noted the monumental business impact of these franchises, stating, "The Kansas City Chiefs and Royals are big business." This serves as a reminder of the economic and cultural significance these teams bring to the region.
However, the backdrop to this bid isn't all positive. Earlier this year, Jackson County voters rejected a sales tax proposal that would have helped fund a massive $2 billion downtown ballpark district for the Royals and an $800 million renovation of the Chiefs' Arrowhead Stadium. This setback means that Missouri faces an even tougher challenge in crafting an appealing deal.
In contrast, Jacksonville, Florida, recently demonstrated a successful model in financing stadium renovations. On Tuesday, a $1.25 billion renovation plan for the Jacksonville Jaguars' stadium was approved, with costs split between the city and the team. Such examples lay out potential frameworks that Missouri could consider emulating.
Governor Parson remains optimistic, stating, "I think by the end of this year, we're going to have something in place" to present as a proposal for the stadiums. There is a keen awareness that while Kansas' actions are inevitable, Missouri must rise to the occasion. "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.
As Parson's term draws to a close, he has explicitly stated that he does not anticipate calling a special legislative session before he leaves office. This puts added pressure on his administration to finalize the deal swiftly. Meanwhile, the Kansas Department of Commerce has yet to set a timeline for when their plans will be finalized, leaving room for strategic maneuvers by both states.
As 2023 progresses, the sporting world will closely watch these developments, recognizing the high stakes involved. Parson's determination to secure the best deal for Missouri and the ongoing legislative maneuvers will serve as a critical chapter in the storied histories of the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals. The race to retain these iconic franchises within Missouri offers compelling drama set against a backdrop of intense economic and political negotiations.