The voters of Kansas City, Mo. have spoken.
The $2 Billion stadium tax, known on the ballot as Question One, was to be split equally between the Chiefs and Royals but has been rejected by a wide margin.
In this pivotal local election, Jackson County voters decisively rejected a proposed sales tax extension meant to fund stadium renovations and a new baseball park.
Precinct voting data reveals 58% (78,352 votes) voted against the initiative, with only 42% (56,600 votes) in support. This vote effectively ends the continuation of a sales tax specifically designated for stadium funding, a tax that has been in place since 2006 and split equally between the Royals and the Chiefs for maintenance and improvements at Kaufman and Arrowhead stadiums, respectively.
Leadership from both the Kansas City Royals and Kansas City Chiefs expressed their disappointment in the results and uncertainty about what the future would hold.
The Royals owner, John Sherman, stated his respect for the democratic process and the voters of Jackson County but also went on to share his disappointment.
“We’re deeply disappointed, as we are steadfast in our belief that Jackson County is far better off with the Chiefs and the Royals. This is a belief I both hold professionally and personally, as someone whose roots run deep in this town.
“We will take some time to reflect on and process the outcome and find a path forward that works for the Royals and our fans.”
In an interview with The Athletic, Chiefs owner Clark Hunt said he believed the voters would “approve the extension of the sales tax.” He was wrong.
A large portion of the funds raised by the tax would have gone toward renovations of Arrowhead Stadium and a new downtown ballpark for the Royals.
But it is back to the drawing board for two organizations who have brought a combined 4 Championships back to Kansas City in recent years. Both owners mentioned the uncertainty of whether the teams would be able to remain in Kansas City long-term.
Hunt and Sherman have alluded to the fact that they would entertain all options and ultimately do what is best for the organization. Even if that means relocating.
The Chiefs and Royals share a lease that runs out at the end of 2031.
