The future of the Kansas City Royals and Kansas City Chiefs in the metro area has been a hot topic. And at times, it’s led to heated debate. Will the Royals and Chiefs stay in Missouri? Will they go to Kansas? Will one stay and one go? Will both explore options outside of the immediate metro area? Officials on both sides of the state line seem to have one goal in common: Keeping both teams in the greater metro area. Here’s a look back at how we got to this point, with many events happening a few decades before Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Salvador Perez, and John Sherman became household names in Kansas City. Western Wyandotte County, Kansas develops If either team moves across state lines, Wyandotte County figures to be a favorite on the Kansas side. That wasn’t always the case. Spring 1993: The Kansas Legislature approves a new funding mechanism for major projects in the state: STAR Bonds. STAR bonds allow local governments to use bond proceeds to bolster tourist attractions. The repayment of those bonds is facilitated through a portion of the state and local sales tax revenue generated within the district, which is established between state and local authorities. December 1996: In an article published by The Kansas City Star, the International Speedway Corporation confirms they are considering the Kansas City metro area for a new racecar track. Spring 1997: The Kansas Legislature amends the STAR Bonds law, allowing Wyandotte County to use the tool to land the Kansas Speedway. November 1997: Voters in Wyandotte County decide to consolidate the city and county governments, forming the Unified Government of Wyandotte County. Carol Marinovich becomes the first Unified Government Mayor/CEO of Wyandotte County and Kansas. The move is credited by proponents with spurring development in the county. February 1998: Former Kansas Gov. Bill Graves signs a bill providing tax breaks to help build the Speedway in Western Wyandotte County. May 25, 1999: A groundbreaking ceremony is held at the site of the Speedway. June 2, 2001: Kansas Speedway hosts its first-ever race, an ARCA Series race. September 30, 2001: Kansas Speedway hosted the first-ever NASCAR Cup Series race, which star driver Jeff Gordon won. As Kansas Speedway hosts more and more events, STAR bonds have also helped develop a shopping center known as The Legends at Village West. Later in the decade, Sporting Kansas City (then known as the Kansas City Wizards) moved to the area and built Children’s Mercy Park. Again, STAR Bonds are an important tool in making that happen. Children’s Mercy Park hosted its first game on June 9, 2011. The move occurred after the initial goal was to build the stadium at the old Bannister Mall location. In March 2024, Wyandotte Economic Development Council President Greg Kindle told KMBC that Village West in Western Wyandotte County drew over 10 million visits. Royals look to downtown Kansas City, Chiefs publicly comment on Kansas possibility During the 1990s and early 2000s, Major League Baseball saw a number of its teams build new downtown stadiums. The Baltimore Orioles began the trend in 1992. San Diego, Detroit, Minnesota, Cincinnati, and Pittsburg were among other markets to see downtown stadiums. The debate gained traction in Kansas City, particularly on sports talk radio. Kansas City hosted the 2012 American League All-Star game and jumped into the spotlight with back-to-back pennants in 2014 and 2015. Two years later, things took another step. October 5, 2017: KMBC’s Michael Mahoney reported Kansas City was studying four separate locations for a downtown stadium for the Royals. City officials acknowledged they spent $40,00 on the project. November 26, 2019: Kansas City businessman John Sherman is introduced as the new owner of the Kansas City Royals, increasing speculation about how long the Royals would remain at Kauffman Stadium. March 2020: The coronavirus pandemic delays the Major League Baseball season by several months. Major League Baseball does not allow fans in the stands during the regular season. Like most projects, the discussion of downtown baseball is put on the back burner during the pandemic. September 14, 2021: For the first time since taking over ownership of the team, Sherman tells reporters in Kansas City that it’s time to start thinking about a new stadium in the next five to 10 years. He said he worked with the Chiefs and leaders in Jackson County, Missouri during the process. September 20, 2021: In perhaps a preview of the April 2024 elections, a new poll indicates that just barely one in three respondents say they would support a downtown baseball stadium – even if the Royals paid for all of it. March 29, 2022: In an interview with The Ringer’s Kevin Clark, Chiefs president Mark Donovan said the Chiefs have considered options in the State of Kansas. March 31, 2022: Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly, at a public appearance in Johnson County, Kansas, said she would be “all for it” if the Chiefs moved to Kansas and that a Border War truce did not include the Chiefs. November 15, 2022: In an open letter to Royals fans, Sherman announces that the team is considering multiple locations for a new $2 billion ballpark village. “We are excited to now share that we have several leading locations under close consideration, both in downtown Kansas City and close to it,” Sherman said in the letter.December 14, 2022: The Royals kick off a series of public forums concerning a new stadium. Sherman says the Royals are looking at 14 different locations in downtown Kansas City or near downtown.Lead-up to Question 1 in Jackson CountyJanuary 31, 2023: The Royals announce at a meeting that they’ve narrowed their search to five locations. Sherman told KMBC later that week the team would request Jackson County taxpayers to continue the county’s current 3/8th-cent sales tax. Among the locations considered were the East Village and the spot for the old Kansas City Star building. May 19, 2023: Two members of the Clay County Commission, along with the Mayor of North Kansas City, released a letter encouraging the Royals to move to Clay County, Missouri. The letter says developers envision a “Wrigleyville” type ballpark environment. June 15, 2023: The Kansas City Royals narrow their stadium locations to the East Village in Kansas City and North Kansas City. August 22, 2023: The Royals release renderings of stadiums for both the East Village and Clay County. Pictures and videos are released. September 5, 2023: An advertisement campaign is launched to encourage the Kansas City Royals to move to Clay County. September 20, 2023: The Kansas City Royals announced that they would delay announcing the location, saying the team was working with negotiators in Jackson and Clay County. October 26-27, 2023: The Kansas City Star reported that a new downtown stadium for the Royals would cost Jackson County taxpayers $4.4 billion to $6.4 billion. The Star said it obtained a confidential financial analysis of the proposed new stadium conducted by the staff of Jackson County Executive Frank White. The Royals denied the report, calling the numbers “erroneous, misleading, and inconsistent.” November 1, 2023: Kansas City Chiefs owner and CEO Clark Hunt said the franchise’s priority is to “figure out a way to renovate Arrowhead Stadium and extend its life.” Hunt said the team communicated with the Royals, saying it was waiting for them to decide between Jackson County and Clay County. January 5, 2024: In a joint announcement, the Chiefs and Royals say they would remain in Jackson County if voters approved a 3/8-cent sales tax extension on the April ballot. The agreement features a new downtown stadium for the Royals and renovations for Arrowhead Stadium. January 7, 2024: KMBC’s Kris Ketz reports the Royals were focusing on the old Kansas City Star building as its possible future homeJanuary 18, 2024: Jackson County Frank White vetoed a proposed stadium sales tax extension, saying it was not a good deal for Jackson County taxpayers. “This proposed sales tax would generate over $2 billion from our residents, yet there is no clear understanding or assurance regarding the teams’ commitments and contributions to the county,” White said. “It’s not a good deal for taxpayers, and I cannot support an agreement that is not in their best interest.” January 22, 2024: Days later, the Jackson County legislature overturned White’s veto, meaning Jackson County residents would vote on the matter. February 13, 2024: Just hours after the Chiefs defended their Super Bowl championship in Las Vegas, the Royals announced that the Crossroads would be the site for a new stadium. The news received mixed reviews from business owners and patrons in the area. “The arts, the music, the food and drink,” Sherman said. “I believe in my gut that the timing is right. I believe the timing is right the Royals to become residents of the Crossroads district. We are thrilled to announce our plans to contribute to community dynamics and long-term growth for the Crossroads.”The stadium would be just blocks from the T-Mobile Center and Power & Light District. February 21-22: Dueling political committees form, one opposing the stadium plans and the other supporting them. The Committee to Keep the Chiefs and Royals in Jackson County would receive nearly $6 million in contributions from the two teams and included various business groups and political unions. The Committee Against New Royals Stadium Taxes, chaired by former Kansas City, Missouri councilwoman Becky Nace, formed in opposition. February 28, 2024: The Chiefs announce their plans to renovate Arrowhead Stadium to the tune of $800 million. Hunt said the family would invest $300 million toward the final tab.However, it would be unclear where the remaining $500 million would come from. The plan included a turf-covered space with a stage for game day and year-round events. The plans also included new upper concourse connections to create a 360-wrap around concourse on the upper level. The project also includes new suites, clubs, concessions, retail spaces, and restrooms. The Chiefs said they considered larger plans, but said it was no feasible int he area where the stadium stood. March 20, 2024: The Chiefs and Royals announce a $270 million community benefits proposal with Jackson County, Missouri. The Chiefs’ agreement amounts to $126 million, while the Royals’ CBA comes to approximately $140 million. Both teams’ CBAs included funding for various community support initiatives, including affordable housing, childcare support, healthcare programs such as anti-violence and mental health awareness, diversity programs supporting minority and women-owned businesses, workforce assistance, education initiatives, environmental sustainability efforts, and public transportation benefits. March 27, 2024: Both the Chiefs and the Royals sign new leases, pending voter approval in Jackson County. The Chiefs’ lease would last 25 years, while the Royals’ lease terms would last 40 years. On the same day, the Royals announced changes to the Crossroads plan. March 30, 2024: Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas throws his support behind Question 1. April 2, 2024: On Election Day, the Royals and Crossroads Community Association, the organization of businesses and groups in the Crossroads, announced an agreement to help businesses impacted by the proposed stadium. April 2, 2024: By a 58-42 percent vote, voters in Jackson County rejected Question 1. “We respect the voters of Jackson County and the results of the election today,” Royals Chairman and CEO John Sherman said in a statement. “We will take some time to reflect on and process the outcome and find a path forward that works out for the Royals and our fans.”Lucas said voters “rejected plans and processes they found inadequate.” Meanwhile, Jackson County Executive Frank White said it was an opportunity for the teams and the county to restart the negotiations. Following Question 1’s failure, Kansas makes it move for the Chiefs and RoyalsApril 4, 2024: In social media posts, the wife of Royals owner John Sherman said both the Chiefs and Royals are done negotiating with Jackson County. Marny Sherman’s comments came on Facebook following the defeat of Question 1. “Unfortunately neither team will work with Jackson County again,” she said in a comment on a public Facebook post. “They had been working behind the scenes for two years attempting to get a location approved. Which was I think Frank White’s plan all along. In any case most unfortunate for sports fans in KC. The lack of leadership has lost the city two treasured assets. I mean if you don’t support the Chiefs after 3 Super Bowl wins why would they stay? We will be lucky if both teams wind up in Kansas. At least still in the area!”The Royals and Chiefs did not comment. April 5, 2024: Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said he was in discussion with Sherman following Question 1’s defeat. He added that he expected both teams to remain in Kansas City, Missouri, in the future. “I think the voters said very simply they want a better plan, better communication, and a better deal long-term. What the voters did not say on Tuesday is that they want the Chiefs or the Royals to leave Jackson County or leave Kansas City, Missouri,” Lucas told KMBC. April 30, 2024: After weeks—and possibly years of speculation—the State of Kansas makes its move. The Kansas Conference Committee on Senate and House Commerce met Monday and is taking up a bill to create a “major professional sports STAR Bond district.”Legislators, however, did not vote on any package since it was proposed hours before the session was up. April 30, 2024: What would a Chiefs stadium look like in Kansas City, Kansas? One idea of a domed-stadium was floated out there by Manica Architecture. The firm released a video and renderings of a proposed stadium in Western Wyandotte County. “The design offers Kansas City the potential for an incredible new home for the Chiefs – and a modern stadium that brings Kansas City new opportunities to host a Super Bowl, NCAA Final Fours Championships, and a wider variety of concerts and family shows than ever before,” David Manica, president and founder of Manica Architecture, said in a statement. May 16, 2024: Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly vetoes a tax cut bill, ensuring the Kansas Legislature would return for a special session. Expectations grew of a STAR Bonds package being proposed at the special session. June 4, 2024: Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson and House Speaker Dan Hawkins confirm they sent a joint letter to Chiefs owner Clark Hunt about the possibility of moving to Kansas. “The Kansas Legislature is poised to present the Chiefs with a compelling opportunity to do just that with the Professional Sports Franchise STAR Bond Project set to be considered during the impending Special Legislative Session. We invite you to weigh in on the bill before us,” the letter said in part. June 10, 2024: While most of the discussion about Kansas centered around the Chiefs, the Royals enter the picture for the Sunflower State, confirming their interest in exploring options. State records show both the Royals and Chiefs have hired lobbyists to represent them in 2024. June 18, 2024: The Kansas House of Representatives, by a of 84-38, approved STAR bond legislation. The Kansas Senate shortly followed.August 9, 2024: Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas told KMBC that he expects a decision soon on the futures of local sports franchises. He mentioned a final decision between the teams could come by October or November.”We’re looking at weeks, not months, to get some idea of the next step, and ultimately, everyone can perhaps relax on the stadium discussion,” Lucas said. “Because I think they’ll be staying home.”August 15, 2024: The Kansas City Star first reported that the Royals were considering Washington Square Park as a potential site for a downtown ballpark. KMBC later confirmed this through independent reporting. Link to articleAugust 27, 2024: A new 3D model of a potential downtown stadium at Washington Square Park surfaced, showcasing it as a possible future site for the Royals. 3-D Development stated that this site would be more cost-effective than the Crossroads site, which voters rejected in an April sales tax vote that would have also funded upgrades for Arrowhead Stadium.September 30, 2024: Mayor Lucas and Missouri Governor Mike Parson told media in Kansas City that they anticipated deals with both the Royals and the Chiefs to keep the teams in Kansas City. With downtown site in jeopardy, Royals looking to Kansas? October 13, 2024: The day after the Royals’ postseason exit, Tom Gorenc, a former Kansas City Parks and Recreation Board Member, told KMBC that he opposed moving the Royals to Washington Square Park.October 31, 2024: In an interview with KMBC, Gorenc claimed he was ousted from his position for publicly opposing the Royals’ plan to build a new ballpark at Washington Square Park.RENDERINGS| Here’s what a potential stadium at Washington Square Park could look likeNovember 12, 2024: Bob Fescoe, host of Fescoe in the Morning on 610 Sports, reported that the Royals were in discussions with the State of Kansas about a potential move to the Sunflower State. The team has not confirmed this report. Jackson County Legislator Manny Abarca mentioned he’s also heard rumors of both teams exploring other options.Missouri House Speaker: “Time is running out”January 9, 2025: The Kansas City Chiefs said they were emailing a survey to over 300,000 people in January to gather feedback on potential new stadium concepts and renovations for GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. The survey, conducted by CSL International, aims to collect input from a broad cross-section of the local and regional fanbase, including past attendees of Chiefs games and other stadium events.February 13, 2025: Kansas House Rep. Sean Tarwater, during a committee hearing, said that he believed Kansas was “very close to bringing at least one team over, maybe two.” February 20, 2025: Missouri Speaker of the House Jon Patterson said he felt timing was running out on a potential solution for stadium matters. February 26, 2025: Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe and leaders from Jackson County met to discuss funding options and the teams’ futures in the state. February 27, 2025: Missouri Sen. Barbara Washington, D-Kansas City; Missouri House Rep. Sherri Gallick, R-Belton; and Rep. Mark Sharp, D-Kansas City, introduced legislation that would provide financial incentives for large-scale sports and entertainment venues across the state.The proposed legislation seeks to encourage investment in new and existing entertainment facilities, such as stadiums and arenas, by offering state assistance in the form of tax-increment financing, withholding tax retention, and matching grants.To qualify, a project must have a minimum cost of $250 million, a seating capacity of at least 20,000, and at least 33% private funding.With football season over and baseball around the corner, the wait for answers continuesMarch 6, 2025: The Downtown Council drafted a resolution supporting a new baseball stadium in downtown Kansas City to keep the Royals in the city. Members of said the city is at a critical point in keeping the Royals in Kansas City.March 24, 2025: 610 Sports Radio reported that the Royals have reached out to the Jewish Community Center in Overland Park about purchasing land as a potential site for a new stadium after their lease at Kauffman Stadium expires in 2031.March 25, 2025: Occidental Management, the commercial real estate and management company behind what used to be known as the Sprint Campus, then the T-Mobile Campus, issued a statement dismissing the report.March 26, 2025: Just before Opening Day, Sherman said the team is considering multiple opportunities on both sides of the state line.April 14, 2025: A coalition of Kansas City business and civic organizations released a joint statement calling on state and local leaders to act quickly to ensure the Chiefs and Royals remain in the region. April 23, 2025:A billboard promoting a downtown ballpark location for the Royals went up near 17th and Main streets, just north of the proposed Washington Square Park site. Supporters hope the sign, backed by downtown businesses, sends a strong message as the team weighs stadium options.Missouri governor pitches plan to keep teamsMay 13, 2025: Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe unveiled a plan offering incentives to keep both the Chiefs and Royals in Missouri, signaling the state’s commitment to retaining the franchises with new or upgraded facilities.May 16, 2025: Gov. Kehoe called a special session of the Missouri Legislature to begin the following week. Lawmakers will consider a proposal to offer state funding to help cover up to half the cost of a new Royals ballpark and renovations to Arrowhead Stadium.May 28, 2025: The Royals confirmed that an affiliate entity purchased the mortgage on the Aspiria campus in Overland Park, Kansas. The move, first reported by the Kansas City Business Journal, raised questions about the team’s long-term stadium intentions. However, the team denied the move was related to a future announcement.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. —

The future of the Kansas City Royals and Kansas City Chiefs in the metro area has been a hot topic.

And at times, it’s led to heated debate.

Will the Royals and Chiefs stay in Missouri? Will they go to Kansas? Will one stay and one go? Will both explore options outside of the immediate metro area?

Officials on both sides of the state line seem to have one goal in common: Keeping both teams in the greater metro area.

Here’s a look back at how we got to this point, with many events happening a few decades before Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Salvador Perez, and John Sherman became household names in Kansas City.

Western Wyandotte County, Kansas develops

If either team moves across state lines, Wyandotte County figures to be a favorite on the Kansas side. That wasn’t always the case.

Spring 1993: The Kansas Legislature approves a new funding mechanism for major projects in the state: STAR Bonds. STAR bonds allow local governments to use bond proceeds to bolster tourist attractions. The repayment of those bonds is facilitated through a portion of the state and local sales tax revenue generated within the district, which is established between state and local authorities.

December 1996: In an article published by The Kansas City Star, the International Speedway Corporation confirms they are considering the Kansas City metro area for a new racecar track.

Spring 1997: The Kansas Legislature amends the STAR Bonds law, allowing Wyandotte County to use the tool to land the Kansas Speedway.

November 1997: Voters in Wyandotte County decide to consolidate the city and county governments, forming the Unified Government of Wyandotte County. Carol Marinovich
becomes the first Unified Government Mayor/CEO of Wyandotte County and Kansas. The move is credited by proponents with spurring development in the county.

February 1998: Former Kansas Gov. Bill Graves signs a bill providing tax breaks to help build the Speedway in Western Wyandotte County.

May 25, 1999: A groundbreaking ceremony is held at the site of the Speedway.

June 2, 2001: Kansas Speedway hosts its first-ever race, an ARCA Series race.

September 30, 2001: Kansas Speedway hosted the first-ever NASCAR Cup Series race, which star driver Jeff Gordon won.

As Kansas Speedway hosts more and more events, STAR bonds have also helped develop a shopping center known as The Legends at Village West.

Later in the decade, Sporting Kansas City (then known as the Kansas City Wizards) moved to the area and built Children’s Mercy Park. Again, STAR Bonds are an important tool in making that happen. Children’s Mercy Park hosted its first game on June 9, 2011.

The move occurred after the initial goal was to build the stadium at the old Bannister Mall location.

In March 2024, Wyandotte Economic Development Council President Greg Kindle told KMBC that Village West in Western Wyandotte County drew over 10 million visits.

Royals look to downtown Kansas City, Chiefs publicly comment on Kansas possibility

During the 1990s and early 2000s, Major League Baseball saw a number of its teams build new downtown stadiums. The Baltimore Orioles began the trend in 1992. San Diego, Detroit, Minnesota, Cincinnati, and Pittsburg were among other markets to see downtown stadiums. The debate gained traction in Kansas City, particularly on sports talk radio. Kansas City hosted the 2012 American League All-Star game and jumped into the spotlight with back-to-back pennants in 2014 and 2015. Two years later, things took another step.

October 5, 2017: KMBC’s Michael Mahoney reported Kansas City was studying four separate locations for a downtown stadium for the Royals. City officials acknowledged they spent $40,00 on the project.

November 26, 2019: Kansas City businessman John Sherman is introduced as the new owner of the Kansas City Royals, increasing speculation about how long the Royals would remain at Kauffman Stadium.

March 2020: The coronavirus pandemic delays the Major League Baseball season by several months. Major League Baseball does not allow fans in the stands during the regular season. Like most projects, the discussion of downtown baseball is put on the back burner during the pandemic.

September 14, 2021: For the first time since taking over ownership of the team, Sherman tells reporters in Kansas City that it’s time to start thinking about a new stadium in the next five to 10 years. He said he worked with the Chiefs and leaders in Jackson County, Missouri during the process.

September 20, 2021: In perhaps a preview of the April 2024 elections, a new poll indicates that just barely one in three respondents say they would support a downtown baseball stadium – even if the Royals paid for all of it.

March 29, 2022: In an interview with The Ringer’s Kevin Clark, Chiefs president Mark Donovan said the Chiefs have considered options in the State of Kansas.

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Chiefs prez Mark Donovan, when asked this AM about potential new stadium options, said the team has considered options in state of Kansas. They like Arrowhead and legacy of Lamar Hunt’s stadium, but have been pitched by Kansas developers on a bunch of options. Something to watch.

— Kevin Clark (@bykevinclark) March 29, 2022

March 31, 2022: Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly, at a public appearance in Johnson County, Kansas, said she would be “all for it” if the Chiefs moved to Kansas and that a Border War truce did not include the Chiefs.

November 15, 2022: In an open letter to Royals fans, Sherman announces that the team is considering multiple locations for a new $2 billion ballpark village.

“We are excited to now share that we have several leading locations under close consideration, both in downtown Kansas City and close to it,” Sherman said in the letter.

December 14, 2022: The Royals kick off a series of public forums concerning a new stadium. Sherman says the Royals are looking at 14 different locations in downtown Kansas City or near downtown.

Lead-up to Question 1 in Jackson County

January 31, 2023: The Royals announce at a meeting that they’ve narrowed their search to five locations. Sherman told KMBC later that week the team would request Jackson County taxpayers to continue the county’s current 3/8th-cent sales tax. Among the locations considered were the East Village and the spot for the old Kansas City Star building.

May 19, 2023: Two members of the Clay County Commission, along with the Mayor of North Kansas City, released a letter encouraging the Royals to move to Clay County, Missouri. The letter says developers envision a “Wrigleyville” type ballpark environment.

June 15, 2023: The Kansas City Royals narrow their stadium locations to the East Village in Kansas City and North Kansas City.

August 22, 2023: The Royals release renderings of stadiums for both the East Village and Clay County. Pictures and videos are released.

September 5, 2023: An advertisement campaign is launched to encourage the Kansas City Royals to move to Clay County.

September 20, 2023: The Kansas City Royals announced that they would delay announcing the location, saying the team was working with negotiators in Jackson and Clay County.

October 26-27, 2023: The Kansas City Star reported that a new downtown stadium for the Royals would cost Jackson County taxpayers $4.4 billion to $6.4 billion. The Star said it obtained a confidential financial analysis of the proposed new stadium conducted by the staff of Jackson County Executive Frank White. The Royals denied the report, calling the numbers “erroneous, misleading, and inconsistent.”

November 1, 2023: Kansas City Chiefs owner and CEO Clark Hunt said the franchise’s priority is to “figure out a way to renovate Arrowhead Stadium and extend its life.” Hunt said the team communicated with the Royals, saying it was waiting for them to decide between Jackson County and Clay County.

January 5, 2024: In a joint announcement, the Chiefs and Royals say they would remain in Jackson County if voters approved a 3/8-cent sales tax extension on the April ballot. The agreement features a new downtown stadium for the Royals and renovations for Arrowhead Stadium.

January 7, 2024: KMBC’s Kris Ketz reports the Royals were focusing on the old Kansas City Star building as its possible future home

January 18, 2024: Jackson County Frank White vetoed a proposed stadium sales tax extension, saying it was not a good deal for Jackson County taxpayers. “This proposed sales tax would generate over $2 billion from our residents, yet there is no clear understanding or assurance regarding the teams’ commitments and contributions to the county,” White said. “It’s not a good deal for taxpayers, and I cannot support an agreement that is not in their best interest.”

January 22, 2024: Days later, the Jackson County legislature overturned White’s veto, meaning Jackson County residents would vote on the matter.

February 13, 2024: Just hours after the Chiefs defended their Super Bowl championship in Las Vegas, the Royals announced that the Crossroads would be the site for a new stadium. The news received mixed reviews from business owners and patrons in the area.

“The arts, the music, the food and drink,” Sherman said. “I believe in my gut that the timing is right. I believe the timing is right the Royals to become residents of the Crossroads district. We are thrilled to announce our plans to contribute to community dynamics and long-term growth for the Crossroads.”

The stadium would be just blocks from the T-Mobile Center and Power & Light District.

February 21-22: Dueling political committees form, one opposing the stadium plans and the other supporting them. The Committee to Keep the Chiefs and Royals in Jackson County would receive nearly $6 million in contributions from the two teams and included various business groups and political unions. The Committee Against New Royals Stadium Taxes, chaired by former Kansas City, Missouri councilwoman Becky Nace, formed in opposition.

February 28, 2024: The Chiefs announce their plans to renovate Arrowhead Stadium to the tune of $800 million. Hunt said the family would invest $300 million toward the final tab.

However, it would be unclear where the remaining $500 million would come from.

The plan included a turf-covered space with a stage for game day and year-round events. The plans also included new upper concourse connections to create a 360-wrap around concourse on the upper level.

The project also includes new suites, clubs, concessions, retail spaces, and restrooms. The Chiefs said they considered larger plans, but said it was no feasible int he area where the stadium stood.

March 20, 2024: The Chiefs and Royals announce a $270 million community benefits proposal with Jackson County, Missouri. The Chiefs’ agreement amounts to $126 million, while the Royals’ CBA comes to approximately $140 million.

Both teams’ CBAs included funding for various community support initiatives, including affordable housing, childcare support, healthcare programs such as anti-violence and mental health awareness, diversity programs supporting minority and women-owned businesses, workforce assistance, education initiatives, environmental sustainability efforts, and public transportation benefits.

March 27, 2024: Both the Chiefs and the Royals sign new leases, pending voter approval in Jackson County. The Chiefs’ lease would last 25 years, while the Royals’ lease terms would last 40 years.

On the same day, the Royals announced changes to the Crossroads plan.

March 30, 2024: Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas throws his support behind Question 1.

April 2, 2024: On Election Day, the Royals and Crossroads Community Association, the organization of businesses and groups in the Crossroads, announced an agreement to help businesses impacted by the proposed stadium.

April 2, 2024: By a 58-42 percent vote, voters in Jackson County rejected Question 1.

“We respect the voters of Jackson County and the results of the election today,” Royals Chairman and CEO John Sherman said in a statement. “We will take some time to reflect on and process the outcome and find a path forward that works out for the Royals and our fans.”

Lucas said voters “rejected plans and processes they found inadequate.”

Meanwhile, Jackson County Executive Frank White said it was an opportunity for the teams and the county to restart the negotiations.

Following Question 1’s failure, Kansas makes it move for the Chiefs and Royals

April 4, 2024: In social media posts, the wife of Royals owner John Sherman said both the Chiefs and Royals are done negotiating with Jackson County. Marny Sherman’s comments came on Facebook following the defeat of Question 1.

“Unfortunately neither team will work with Jackson County again,” she said in a comment on a public Facebook post. “They had been working behind the scenes for two years attempting to get a location approved. Which was I think Frank White’s plan all along. In any case most unfortunate for sports fans in KC. The lack of leadership has lost the city two treasured assets. I mean if you don’t support the Chiefs after 3 Super Bowl wins why would they stay? We will be lucky if both teams wind up in Kansas. At least still in the area!”

The Royals and Chiefs did not comment.

April 5, 2024: Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said he was in discussion with Sherman following Question 1’s defeat. He added that he expected both teams to remain in Kansas City, Missouri, in the future.

“I think the voters said very simply they want a better plan, better communication, and a better deal long-term. What the voters did not say on Tuesday is that they want the Chiefs or the Royals to leave Jackson County or leave Kansas City, Missouri,” Lucas told KMBC.

April 30, 2024: After weeks—and possibly years of speculation—the State of Kansas makes its move. The Kansas Conference Committee on Senate and House Commerce met Monday and is taking up a bill to create a “major professional sports STAR Bond district.”

Legislators, however, did not vote on any package since it was proposed hours before the session was up.

April 30, 2024: What would a Chiefs stadium look like in Kansas City, Kansas?

One idea of a domed-stadium was floated out there by Manica Architecture. The firm released a video and renderings of a proposed stadium in Western Wyandotte County.

“The design offers Kansas City the potential for an incredible new home for the Chiefs – and a modern stadium that brings Kansas City new opportunities to host a Super Bowl, NCAA Final Fours Championships, and a wider variety of concerts and family shows than ever before,” David Manica, president and founder of Manica Architecture, said in a statement.

May 16, 2024: Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly vetoes a tax cut bill, ensuring the Kansas Legislature would return for a special session. Expectations grew of a STAR Bonds package being proposed at the special session.

June 4, 2024: Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson and House Speaker Dan Hawkins confirm they sent a joint letter to Chiefs owner Clark Hunt about the possibility of moving to Kansas.

“The Kansas Legislature is poised to present the Chiefs with a compelling opportunity to do just that with the Professional Sports Franchise STAR Bond Project set to be considered during the impending Special Legislative Session. We invite you to weigh in on the bill before us,” the letter said in part.

June 10, 2024: While most of the discussion about Kansas centered around the Chiefs, the Royals enter the picture for the Sunflower State, confirming their interest in exploring options. State records show both the Royals and Chiefs have hired lobbyists to represent them in 2024.

June 18, 2024: The Kansas House of Representatives, by a of 84-38, approved STAR bond legislation. The Kansas Senate shortly followed.

August 9, 2024: Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas told KMBC that he expects a decision soon on the futures of local sports franchises. He mentioned a final decision between the teams could come by October or November.

“We’re looking at weeks, not months, to get some idea of the next step, and ultimately, everyone can perhaps relax on the stadium discussion,” Lucas said. “Because I think they’ll be staying home.”

August 15, 2024: The Kansas City Star first reported that the Royals were considering Washington Square Park as a potential site for a downtown ballpark. KMBC later confirmed this through independent reporting. Link to article

August 27, 2024: A new 3D model of a potential downtown stadium at Washington Square Park surfaced, showcasing it as a possible future site for the Royals. 3-D Development stated that this site would be more cost-effective than the Crossroads site, which voters rejected in an April sales tax vote that would have also funded upgrades for Arrowhead Stadium.

September 30, 2024: Mayor Lucas and Missouri Governor Mike Parson told media in Kansas City that they anticipated deals with both the Royals and the Chiefs to keep the teams in Kansas City.

With downtown site in jeopardy, Royals looking to Kansas?

October 13, 2024: The day after the Royals’ postseason exit, Tom Gorenc, a former Kansas City Parks and Recreation Board Member, told KMBC that he opposed moving the Royals to Washington Square Park.

October 31, 2024: In an interview with KMBC, Gorenc claimed he was ousted from his position for publicly opposing the Royals’ plan to build a new ballpark at Washington Square Park.

RENDERINGS| Here’s what a potential stadium at Washington Square Park could look like

November 12, 2024: Bob Fescoe, host of Fescoe in the Morning on 610 Sports, reported that the Royals were in discussions with the State of Kansas about a potential move to the Sunflower State. The team has not confirmed this report. Jackson County Legislator Manny Abarca mentioned he’s also heard rumors of both teams exploring other options.

Missouri House Speaker: “Time is running out”

January 9, 2025: The Kansas City Chiefs said they were emailing a survey to over 300,000 people in January to gather feedback on potential new stadium concepts and renovations for GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. The survey, conducted by CSL International, aims to collect input from a broad cross-section of the local and regional fanbase, including past attendees of Chiefs games and other stadium events.

February 13, 2025: Kansas House Rep. Sean Tarwater, during a committee hearing, said that he believed Kansas was “very close to bringing at least one team over, maybe two.”

February 20, 2025: Missouri Speaker of the House Jon Patterson said he felt timing was running out on a potential solution for stadium matters.

February 26, 2025: Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe and leaders from Jackson County met to discuss funding options and the teams’ futures in the state.

February 27, 2025: Missouri Sen. Barbara Washington, D-Kansas City; Missouri House Rep. Sherri Gallick, R-Belton; and Rep. Mark Sharp, D-Kansas City, introduced legislation that would provide financial incentives for large-scale sports and entertainment venues across the state.

The proposed legislation seeks to encourage investment in new and existing entertainment facilities, such as stadiums and arenas, by offering state assistance in the form of tax-increment financing, withholding tax retention, and matching grants.

To qualify, a project must have a minimum cost of $250 million, a seating capacity of at least 20,000, and at least 33% private funding.

With football season over and baseball around the corner, the wait for answers continues

March 6, 2025: The Downtown Council drafted a resolution supporting a new baseball stadium in downtown Kansas City to keep the Royals in the city. Members of said the city is at a critical point in keeping the Royals in Kansas City.

March 24, 2025: 610 Sports Radio reported that the Royals have reached out to the Jewish Community Center in Overland Park about purchasing land as a potential site for a new stadium after their lease at Kauffman Stadium expires in 2031.

March 25, 2025: Occidental Management, the commercial real estate and management company behind what used to be known as the Sprint Campus, then the T-Mobile Campus, issued a statement dismissing the report.

March 26, 2025: Just before Opening Day, Sherman said the team is considering multiple opportunities on both sides of the state line.

April 14, 2025: A coalition of Kansas City business and civic organizations released a joint statement calling on state and local leaders to act quickly to ensure the Chiefs and Royals remain in the region.

April 23, 2025:A billboard promoting a downtown ballpark location for the Royals went up near 17th and Main streets, just north of the proposed Washington Square Park site. Supporters hope the sign, backed by downtown businesses, sends a strong message as the team weighs stadium options.

Missouri governor pitches plan to keep teams

May 13, 2025: Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe unveiled a plan offering incentives to keep both the Chiefs and Royals in Missouri, signaling the state’s commitment to retaining the franchises with new or upgraded facilities.

May 16, 2025: Gov. Kehoe called a special session of the Missouri Legislature to begin the following week. Lawmakers will consider a proposal to offer state funding to help cover up to half the cost of a new Royals ballpark and renovations to Arrowhead Stadium.

May 28, 2025: The Royals confirmed that an affiliate entity purchased the mortgage on the Aspiria campus in Overland Park, Kansas. The move, first reported by the Kansas City Business Journal, raised questions about the team’s long-term stadium intentions. However, the team denied the move was related to a future announcement.