Missouri Senate passes stadium funding bill
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- The Missouri Senate passed three bills overnight for disaster aid, economic development and stadium funding projects.
Senate Bill 3, which allows the state to invest in large stadium projects, passed by a vote of 19-13. SB 3 would allow the Chiefs and Royals to use tax revenue generated at their stadiums to pay off construction bonds.
Local Chiefs and Royals fans are feeling encouraged by Missouri’s efforts to retain the teams because of their ties to the community.
"I know the importance to the city and the community to have professional teams, and it would break my heart if they move to Kansas," Kelly Kennedy said. "I'm just a Missouri guy, always have been, and very proud of my sports teams."
St. Joseph resident Jaren Padgett grew up watching the Chiefs practice at Missouri Western State University for training camp, and that foundation is another reason he would like the team to stay in the state.
"Just kind of a family-oriented space that they have here in Missouri and in St. Joseph really matters to me," he said. "And I've been to many of the games at the stadium there in Missouri."
SB 3 does not name the Chiefs or Royals, but the terms of the bill apply to construction or rehabilitation projects that cost at least $500 million and serve professional baseball or football teams.
The bill allows the state to invest in large stadium projects and cover up to 50% of the cost. It's a plan that helps Missouri compete with the 70% offer the state of Kansas gave last year.
"I would support (the Chiefs) to renovate the stadium," Padgett said. "It would bring a lot more fans, probably, so I would support it."
Regardless of whether the Chiefs and Royals decide to stay or move, they have plenty of fans who will follow them wherever they go.
"I'm an old-timer and have been associated with the teams for a long time," Kennedy said. "Would it change my love for them? No. I'm partial to Missouri, and I would just like to see them stay here."
House approval is still needed on the bill. The Senate will convene again on June 16.
