UPDATE: Kansas lawmakers are set to vote today, November 6, 2023, on a groundbreaking proposal that could see the Kansas City Chiefs relocate from Missouri to a new stadium in Kansas, potentially replacing the aging Arrowhead Stadium. This urgent decision could reshape the sports landscape and economic future of the region.
The Legislative Coordinating Council, comprising the state’s top lawmakers, is expected to convene shortly, with Chiefs owner Clark Hunt and team officials in attendance. If passed, this proposal could expedite plans for a new facility estimated to cost over $2 billion, signaling a dramatic shift for one of the NFL’s most storied franchises.
This ambitious project would utilize STAR bonds, allowing the state to cover up to 70% of the stadium’s costs through sales and liquor tax revenues generated in a designated area around the proposed complex. The same financing mechanism was successfully employed to develop the Kansas Speedway and its surrounding entertainment district, known as The Legends.
The Kansas Department of Commerce confirmed ongoing discussions with the Chiefs about this potential move, stating, “No final agreement has been reached, but this would be a massive economic win for Kansas and benefit Kansans for generations to come. We are aggressively pursuing this opportunity.”
This potential relocation would be a significant blow to Missouri lawmakers and Governor Mike Kehoe, who have been working to secure funding to keep the team in their state. The Rams’ departure from St. Louis to Los Angeles a decade ago, partly due to funding failures, looms large in current negotiations.
To counter the Kansas proposal, Kehoe initiated a special legislative session in June, aiming to authorize bonds covering up to 50% of costs for new or renovated stadiums, alongside $50 million in tax credits for each project. This session was a direct response to Kansas lawmakers’ approval of their bond package.
While the Chiefs initially sought an $800 million renovation of Arrowhead Stadium alongside the Kansas City Royals, plans began to diverge following a failed local sales tax extension last year. The Royals have since begun exploring separate relocation options, with land purchased in Overland Park, Kansas, fueling speculation about their potential move.
Quinton Lucas, the mayor of Kansas City, Missouri, expressed his commitment to keeping both franchises in Missouri, stating that negotiations with the Chiefs have continued. “We’ll reserve further comment until we hear from the Kansas City Chiefs,” Lucas asserted over the weekend.
Historically, Arrowhead Stadium has been a beloved venue, known for its vibrant atmosphere and tailgating culture. It holds the Guinness World Record for the loudest stadium roar, a testament to its passionate fanbase. This summer, it is set to host six World Cup matches, including key knockout rounds, showcasing its importance in the sports world.
However, the Hunt family appears increasingly open to the idea of a new stadium, which would not only enhance revenue through luxury seating but also allow for year-round events, including concerts and potentially a Super Bowl—one of Lamar Hunt’s lifelong dreams.
As the vote approaches, all eyes are on Kansas lawmakers and the potential implications of this decision. Should the proposal pass, the Chiefs’ swift transition to a new home could soon become a reality, fundamentally altering the dynamics of professional football in the region. Stay tuned for live updates as this story unfolds.
