Missouri Senate Pushes for Stadium Subsidies Amid Tornado Relief Efforts
JEFFERSON CITY – The Missouri Senate is on the brink of a crucial vote that could secure funding aimed at preventing the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals from leaving the state, while simultaneously addressing tornado relief in St. Louis.
Governor Mike Kehoe’s proposal, designed to avert the teams’ relocation by enhancing their stadium funding, initially faced skepticism due to insufficient votes. However, after a series of strategic discussions, a revised plan emerged that would allocate $100 million for tornado recovery efforts, significantly up from a previously proposed $25 million.
The Senate convened Wednesday evening, responding to the updated measures presented by Kehoe’s office, which also included provisions for disaster relief and tax policy adjustments. With the Royals planning a new $1-2 billion stadium and the Chiefs eyeing $1.15 billion in renovations, the stakes are high. Under the proposed agreement, the state would cover 30 years of bond payments comparable to the annual tax revenue generated by the teams before they apply for state assistance, estimating a $1.5 billion taxpayer cost over three decades.
Key elements of the plan were shaped by negotiation efforts, including property tax relief provisions aimed at gaining support from the conservative Freedom Caucus. However, concerns persist regarding the potential revenue impacts on local governments and schools, with a fiscal analysis projecting a $585 million loss in local revenue.
Additionally, the relief package would extend to $25 million for tornado cleanup across other affected areas and offer a $5,000 tax credit for homeowners in disaster zones. As the special session unfolds, the costs associated with legislative proceedings also raise taxpayer concerns, with daily expenses significantly escalating.
As lawmakers work to finalize the package by the end of the month, the emphasis remains on balancing immediate community needs with long-term opportunities for the state’s sports infrastructure.
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