A tax proposal to fund new stadium construction for the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs and baseball team Kansas City Royals has been rejected by local lawmakers in Missouri.
Jackson County Executive Frank White on Thursday vetoed an ordinance that would have put a 3/8 cent sales tax renewal on the April ballot to fund the project.
“This proposed sales tax would generate more than $2 billion from residents, but there is no clear understanding or assurance of the team's commitment or contribution to the county,” White said in a news release. . report. “This is not a good deal for taxpayers, and we cannot support an agreement that is not in their interest.”
Immediately after the veto announcement, four county council members announced their support for White. The nine-member County Council would need six votes to override White's veto. The Jan. 23 deadline to put a decision on the stadium tax before voters this spring is fast approaching.
In response to White's veto, the Royals and Chiefs issued a joint statement saying, “We respect the county executive's veto authority. We will continue to work with legislators to ensure that this ordinance is passed in April. We will ensure that it appears on the ballot on the 2nd so that Jackson County voters have the opportunity to decide on an extension of the current 3/8 cent sales tax.”
The Royals are trying to use sales tax money for financial aid. build a new downtown ballpark; Although they have not announced the location yet. The Chiefs have consistently expressed his intention to renovate Arrowhead Stadium.
Truman Sports Complex's current stadium lease expires in 2031. Both teams are targeting their measures in April, although some lawmakers pointed out Thursday that April is not the only time to vote on 2024 or years beyond that deadline. There is support from the current governor's office, which is said to be behind the urgency.
On Jan. 8, county councilors voted 8-1 to approve ballot language for a new 3/8 cent sales tax to replace the current sales tax that expires in September 2031. Mr. White was not in favor of this at the time and wanted more additions. It's time to get additional concessions from county teams under the contract.
