Missouri Senate Approves $1.5 Billion Plan to Retain Kansas City Sports Teams
JEFFERSON CITY — In a move to secure the futures of Kansas City’s professional sports teams, the Missouri Senate approved a substantial $1.5 billion financing plan early Thursday morning. This decision comes during a special session called by Governor Mike Kehoe to prevent the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs from relocating to Kansas.
The proposal garnered bipartisan support, passing with a narrow 19-13 vote. To soften resistance from some lawmakers, the Senate increased disaster aid for St. Louis tornado victims from $25 million to $100 million, a decision that also aimed to appease Democrats who were hesitant about the stadium funding, seen by some as a “giveaway to billionaires.”
Democratic Senator Tracy McCreery criticized the idea of using taxpayer dollars to fund sports team infrastructure while neglecting urgent community needs. However, supporters, including St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer, lauded the increased disaster aid and emphasized the pressing need for assistance for affected residents.
The proposal requires local government participation and guarantees that the state covers about 50% of stadium costs, which represents a significant burden on taxpayers over 30 years. Both the Royals and Chiefs are eyeing major renovations and facility upgrades worth billions, with Kansas proposing a lucrative deal to attract the teams.
The House is expected to review and approve the plan following its adjournment, with lawmakers eager to finalize details ahead of the June 30 deadline set by Kansas. This special session has highlighted the intricate balancing act facing Missouri legislators, as they navigate between securing funding for sports and responding to the fallout from natural disasters.
Concerns over property tax relief and funding priorities foreshadow more debates ahead as the legislature works to finalize the plan.
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