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Chiefs Stadium Deal Not Final, Kansas City, Kansas Mayor Assures Residents
Kansas City, KS – Despite widespread reports of the Kansas City Chiefs potentially relocating to Kansas, Kansas City, Kansas Mayor Christal Watson is urging caution, stating that no final decisions have been made regarding the proposed $3 billion domed stadium.
In a Facebook post on December 26th, Watson emphasized that Wyandotte County will not be rushed into any agreement. She highlighted that the County Commission has yet to approve the necessary Sales Tax and Revenue (STAR) bonds, a critical component of the project’s funding.
“At this moment in time, we are asking hard questions, we are reviewing information carefully, we are weighing long-term impacts,” Watson stated, focusing on the long term benefits for Wyandotte County.
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly previously announced the Chiefs’ intention to build the stadium in Wyandotte County, financed by over $2 billion in STAR bonds and private investment. The total project, including a new team headquarters and training facilities in Olathe, is estimated to be worth $4 billion. Olathe officials have also not yet voted on the proposal.
STAR bonds are a financing tool used to fund tourism-related projects through the development’s sales tax revenues. The Kansas Department of Commerce touts the potential for over 20,000 construction jobs and a $1 billion annual economic impact. They are working with local officials in Wyandotte County and Olathe, to provide them with information and resources they may need to conduct the necessary public engagement prior to officials taking the STAR bonds votes within the 60-day timeline
The potential move has sparked mixed reactions. Some, like Shawnee resident Darryll Dean, oppose using sales tax due to concerns about efficient resource management. Others, like Kansas City, Kansas, resident Adena Connor, support the move, feeling it aligns with the team’s name recognition. Ken Yeager, a sales professional in Kansas City, Kansas, believes the tax increase would be minimal.
Mayor Watson has pledged to continue listening to residents’ concerns, particularly regarding potential property tax increases. She emphasized the need to ensure the agreement benefits the community, stating, “My personal stance is that if there is even the slightest chance that this deal will raise property taxes…we need to change the terms of the agreement to benefit our people.”
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