LEAWOOD, Kan. (KCTV) – Most Chiefs fans shopping for gear at Dick’s Sporting Goods said they care more about keeping the team in Kansas City than which side of the state line hosts them, as Missouri and Kansas officials battle over the four-time Super Bowl champions.
The merchandise at the Leawood store reads “Kansas City Football” and “Kansas City Chiefs” — not specifying Missouri or Kansas — reflecting the regional loyalty fans expressed Friday.
“I like where it is mostly but as long as they stay in Kansas City and in the area, it’s mostly fine,” said 12-year-old Elihu Johnson of Kansas City, Missouri.
His father, Blair Johnson, has a nostalgic affinity for the current location but understands nostalgia has its limits.
“I love the Truman Sports Complex because I grew up watching both teams there, but all that stuff is above my pay grade,” Blair Johnson said.
Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota announced “Operation Save Arrowhead” on Friday, proposing a 1/4-cent sales tax to renovate the stadium. The 25-year tax would begin in 2031 and include $400 million from the Chiefs, along with commitments from Missouri and Kansas City.
Josh Story of Kansas City, Missouri, said the Chiefs should stay at Arrowhead Stadium, citing the home-field advantage the outdoor venue provides.
“Having the home-field advantage in the playoffs. I mean, Arrowhead has been such a big factor in our success, more than just having a talented team,” Story said.
Most Chiefs fans shopping for gear at Dick’s Sporting Goods said they care more about keeping the team in Kansas City than which side of the state line hosts them, as Missouri and Kansas officials battle over the four-time Super Bowl champions.(KCTV5/Betsy Webster)
But Ryan Yarlagadda of Leawood said a new facility could attract more fans.
“I mean I love Arrowhead but I think now’s the time to make a move, and I think you’ll get more people in a newer stadium,” Yarlagadda said.
Ethan Hover of Platte City said business considerations should drive the decision.
“I think at the end of the day, sports is a business, so whatever is good for them, I think is what they need to do,” Hover said.
Despite the political battle between states, fans emphasized their shared Kansas City identity.
“I’m a proud Kansas City girl through and through, so Chiefs fan either side of the state line,” said Janelle Green of Leawood.
LeVota’s plan comes as Kansas officials work to lure both the Chiefs and Royals with incentives. The Kansas Legislative Coordinating Council meets Monday in what could be the next step in the process.
LeVota said he accelerated his announcement because “conversations about a deal being near in Kansas” moved up his timeline.
Most Chiefs fans shopping for gear at Dick’s Sporting Goods said they care more about keeping the team in Kansas City than which side of the state line hosts them, as Missouri and Kansas officials battle over the four-time Super Bowl champions.(KCTV5/Betsy Webster)
“The people need to hear from us and know we’re fighting,” LeVota said. “We’re fighting hard to keep the Chiefs here.”
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