The Kansas City Chiefs are considering leaving Arrowhead Stadium after voters in Jackson County, Missouri, rejected a sales tax initiative that would have funded renovations to the 52-year-old building. The teams have relied on a three-eighths cent sales tax for upkeep, with the Royals planning to use their share for a new downtown ballpark and the Chiefs envisioning an $800 million renovation of Arrowhead. However, more than 58% of voters rejected the initiative after facing criticism from various angles.
Chiefs owner Clark Hunt expressed a sense of urgency following the failed sales tax initiative, as they now have only 6 1/2 years left on their lease. Initially, the team had planned to renovate Arrowhead Stadium, which is a place of sentimental value to the Hunt family. The family had pledged $300 million in private funds for the renovation, with the rest coming from public funding. However, with the current situation, the Chiefs are exploring other options and receiving overtures from other locations, potentially across the state line in Kansas.
Hunt emphasized that stadium development projects take a long time, and they need to act swiftly with limited time remaining on their lease. He hinted at the possibility of considering a completely new facility elsewhere or a renovation of Arrowhead Stadium with different financing options. The team aims to make a decision within the next year or year-and-a-half to secure their future home. Hunt also mentioned that the Chiefs would likely pursue their path independently rather than in partnership with the Royals, giving them more flexibility in seeking the best financing package for their needs.
While the Chiefs have not ruled out the potential for future collaboration with the Royals on a stadium project, Hunt indicated that they are currently focused on finding a solution that works best for the football franchise. The uncertainty surrounding Arrowhead Stadium has prompted them to explore all possibilities and evaluate offers from various locations, including those in Kansas, where officials have expressed interest in hosting the Chiefs. The future of the Chiefs’ home venue remains uncertain, but the team is determined to find a long-term solution that aligns with their vision and financial goals.
