Everything to Know About Chiefs and Royals Intense Stadium Debate

Jackson County voters in Kansas City will officially vote on Question 1 on Tuesday, helping decide the future of both the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals.

The ballot would extend a pre-existing 3/8th-cent sales tax in Jackson County, currently set to expire in 2031, for 40 years. Money generated from the tax would be split between the Chiefs and Royals to finance stadium improvements and in the Royals' case, a new stadium located downtown.

It's been a contentious debate with vocal proponents and opponents making their voices heard. Tuesday is one of the most important days for Kansas City sports in recent memory and will help determine the future of both franchises.

What is Question 1 in Jackson County?

Voters are asked if they want to extend the 3/8th-cent sales tax for goods purchased in Jackson County for 40 years. The current 3/8th-cent tax was established in 2006 and is set to expire in 2031.

Mayor Quinton Lucas has officially endorsed a "Yes" vote on Question 1.

What Would the Chiefs Use the Tax Money For?

The Chiefs plan to use their portion to renovate GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium with a new "Activation Zone" and numerous structural upgrades, including new video boards, sideline clubs, entry points, concession stands, bridges, and more.

Clark Hunt and Chiefs ownership have committed $300 million to help fund the project.

What Would the Royals Use the Tax Money For?

The Royals would build a new stadium located in downtown, Kansas City, near the Crossroads District. Original renderings showed the new facility closing Oak Street and the businesses surrounding, though Royals ownership spoke with the community and have since changed those plans to keep Oak Street open.

John Sherman and the Royals ownership have committed $1.3 biillion in personal funds to help fund the project.

Is This a New Tax?

While this is technically a new tax, it's one that Jackson County residents have already been paying for since 2006. It will be the same tax amount, so the bottom line would remain the same.

The only question is the length, as the current tax expires in 2031 while this measure would be a 40-year agreement.

Could the Chiefs and Royals Leave Jackson County?

Yes. Both Clark Hunt and John Sherman have been clear that they would explore all options if the vote fails. Each organization has expressed a desire to stay in the Kansas City metro area, though both would entertain offers from other countys like Johnson, Wyandotte and Clay, among others.

Jackson County currently benefits from tax dollars generated from events at the Truman Sports Complex to fund public programs. If the teams leave the county, those tax dollars would no longer benefit Jackson County and the constituents in it.

How Much Would This Cost Me?

This depends how much you spend on taxable goods in Jackson County each year. Note that this only applies to goods specifically bought in the county, so goods purchased in other countys would not apply.

If, for example, you spend $10,000 a year on sales taxable goods in Jackson County, you would spend $37.50 annually. If you spend $20,000, you would spend $75 annually.

How Do I Vote?

If you are a Jackson County resident can check your voting location by clicking this link.

We'll keep you updated on the results of the election as soon as information becomes available.

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