Kansas City council backs $600 million bond plan for new Royals stadium
The Kansas City council approved a $600 million tax-free bond package to fund a new Royals ballpark, despite a recent voter rejection of a similar tax increase.
Kansas City’s city council moved forward with a $600 million tax-free bond issue to support construction of a new Royals stadium, even though Jackson County voters had previously turned down a sales-tax measure for the same purpose. The bond plan, cleared by the finance committee and approved by an 11-2 vote, is part of a larger financing package that could bring $1.14 billion of public funds from the city and the state of Missouri.
The deal explicitly states that the Royals are not required to repay the city-backed bonds, shifting financial risk to the municipality. A 30-year lease will allow the team to seek additional public money for future renovations while paying a nominal $1 annual rent. Councilmember Johnathan Duncan and various community advocates voiced opposition, calling the community benefits modest and accusing the council of yielding to the team’s interests.
Why it matters
The vote overrides recent voter opposition and commits substantial public money to a sports facility, affecting city finances and community trust.
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