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Kansas lawmakers are urging that any stadium relocation deals involving the Chiefs and Royals—potentially supported by Sales Tax and Revenue (STAR) Bonds—be finalized before the end of this calendar year.
While both teams are considering a move across the state line, the Legislative Coordinating Council (LCC) voted unanimously on Monday to extend the STAR Bond opportunity, but emphasized the need for a clear resolution before 2026.
STAR Bond Extension Granted, But With a Deadline
The LCC’s 8-0 vote allows both the Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals another year to consider relocating to Kansas with the help of STAR Bond financing, a tool designed to support large-scale economic development.
However, Republican House Speaker Dan Hawkins voiced concerns over the state administration’s response delays, specifically pointing to a communication gap with one of the teams between November 2024 and February 2025.
“Sometimes you learn things that surprise you,” Hawkins said. “One of the teams apparently went months without hearing back from the Department of Commerce.”
State Officials Push Back on Criticism
Patrick Lowry, spokesperson for the Kansas Department of Commerce, strongly refuted Hawkins’ claim, calling it “categorically false.
” According to Lowry, discussions with both teams have been ongoing since STAR Bond legislation was passed to include professional stadium projects.
He noted that numerous meetings and deal negotiations occurred during the mentioned time period.
Political Divide Emerges
Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, a Democrat, responded by defending the administration’s role and labeled Hawkins’ comments as politically motivated.
“I believe there are ongoing conversations,” Sykes said. “But these are business negotiations. The teams are evaluating what’s best for their future.”
Teams Acknowledge Progress and Support
Following the vote, both franchises issued statements expressing appreciation for the continued dialogue and the STAR Bond extension:
- The Royals thanked the LCC for “recognizing the diligent work being done” and emphasized their goal to find the “best generational home” for the team.
- The Chiefs also expressed gratitude and noted that they remain committed to “evaluating all potential stadium options in Kansas,” reaffirming their commitment to “the best long-term decision for Chiefs Kingdom.”
Governor’s Priorities Questioned
Senate President Ty Masterson, a Republican, suggested the Kelly administration appears to prioritize attracting the Royals over the Chiefs, despite public perception leaning the other way. Masterson acknowledged that securing both teams would be an ideal outcome.
With the STAR Bond extension in place, Kansas has until the end of 2025 to present a compelling offer to the Chiefs and Royals for a potential relocation.
As political tension simmers and negotiations continue, lawmakers and community leaders alike remain focused on making Kansas a new home for major league sports, all while balancing public interest, fiscal responsibility, and long-term economic impact.