Voters in Jackson County, Missouri, will decide on a ballot measure to renew a sales tax that provides funding for stadium improvements for the Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals. Voters will decide the ballot measure on April 2, 2024. The Jackson County Legislature overrode a veto from County Executive Frank White on Jan. 22.
The Chiefs and Royals issued a joint statement on Jan. 22, which said, “We took an important step forward today. We thank the Jackson County legislators for their attention and care in this matter. We look forward to continuing to work with them, and enabling voters to decide on extending the longstanding partnership between the County and our teams on April 2.”
On Jan. 8, 2024, the Jackson County Legislature voted 8-1 to place the measure on the ballot. On Jan. 18, County Executive Frank White, a former professional baseball player, vetoed the ordinance for the ballot measure. He said, “This proposed sales tax would generate over $2 billion from our residents, yet there is no clear understanding or assurance regarding the teams’ commitments and contributions to the county. It’s not a good deal for taxpayers and I cannot support an agreement that is not in their best interest.” On Jan. 22, the Jackson County Legislature overrode his veto with a vote of 7-2, allowing the measure to appear on the ballot for April 2.
