Jackson County Leaders Pass Chiefs, Royals Stadium Tax For April Ballot

Posted January 9, 2024

The Jackson County Legislature voted to place a stadium sales tax extension on the April ballot. Voters will decide whether or not to approve a 3/8th cent sales tax for 40 years with the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals.

Jackson County leaders voted 8-1 on Monday to put the 3/8th cent sales tax question on the ballot.

The motion to pass the ballot question comes after the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals 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 the statement, the teams announced they would help provide over $200 million in economic benefits for Jackson County. The agreement would also help the Chiefs renovate Arrowhead Stadium, a request long asked for by the franchise, and help provide a new ballpark for the Royals.

At Monday’s meeting, Legislative Chairman DaRon McGee said final terms of the agreement between Jackson County and the teams will be available to the public before the April election.

“Securing the best deal possible for taxpayers has been a priority for me,” McGee said in a statement released Monday. “Through recent negotiations, we’ve been able to save the county hundreds of millions of dollars. Both teams have now agreed to give up the annual park levy, to pay their own insurance, and have agreed to a written commitment to enter into community benefit agreements.”

If the 3/8th cent sales tax is approved, the existing tax funding the stadiums will be repealed, McGee said.

Prior to Monday’s meeting, County Executive Frank White expressed concerns with the ordinance and requested more time before the ordinance was approved to meet with the teams.

“I understand the complexities and challenges of these discussions and want to reassure everyone that my commitment to collaboration remains strong,” White said in a statement released Monday before the meeting. “Regardless of the vote’s outcome, I am dedicated to working closely with legislators, our sports teams and all stakeholders. This commitment holds true whether the issue reaches the ballot or not. My office is ready to continue constructive engagement in every step of this process, ensuring the best outcomes for all involved.”

White could still veto the decision in the next 10 days, however, if the 8-1 vote holds then the Jackson County Legislature would hold supermajority rule.