Chiefs, Royals Announce Commitment to Jackson County if Sales Tax is Approved

Posted January 8, 2024

The Kansas City Royals and Kansas City Chiefs released a joint statement Friday saying the two franchises are committed to remaining in Jackson County if the 3/8-cent sales tax is approved in April.

In addition to the announcement of their commitment, the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals agreed to provide $200 million in economic benefits for the county over the next 40 years.

The teams’ agreement in condition on whether voters will pass the 3/8-cent sales tax on a ballot initiative this April. If passed, the extension would help in funding the development of Arrowhead Stadium renovations and help the Royals build a new stadium in downtown Kansas City.

The Royals previously announced two locations for their new ballpark in the East Village and in North Kansas City, however, in November the owner of the old Kansas City Start building pushed for the team to move into the crossroads instead.

Benefits offered by the two teams include paying for insurance coverage for their respective facilities that are currently being paid by Jackson County. This saves the County approximately $80 – $100 million over the course of the extended and new term of the leases, according to the statement.

The agreement would also help to reallocate each team’s share of park property tax for other county purposes that could save Jackson County $140 million.

Lastly, the teams committed to entering into a robust community benefits agreement that directly affects Jackson County citizens.

Jackson County leaders have been working to approve the precise language for the ballot in time for the Jan. 23 deadline. The next legislative meeting is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 8 at 3 p.m.