Voters in Jackson County, Missouri have rejected a stadium sales tax extension.
The measure failed Tuesday by a 58-to-42-percent margin.
The three-eights-cent sales tax extension would have funded a new stadium for the Kansas City Royals and renovations to Arrowhead Stadium for the Kansas City Chiefs. The tax was scheduled to expire in 2031.
The Royals would have used the funding from the extension to build a new stadium in the Crossroads District in downtown Kansas City. The Chiefs would have used the funding for a major renovation of the Arrowhead Stadium area.
Royals owner John Sherman reacted by saying, “We’re deeply disappointed, as we are steadfast in our belief that Jackson County is far better off with the Chiefs and the Royals. We will take sometime to reflect on and process the outcome, and find a path forward that works for the Royals and our fans.” Chiefs president Mark Donovan also voiced disappointment with the vote. Kansas City mayor Quinton Lucas said he’s looking forward to working with the teams going forward.
