Kansas Lawmakers Set to Vote on $2 Billion Deal to Lure Chiefs Across State Line

Breaking: Kansas Moves Toward Landing Chiefs With race for a New Stadium

TOPEKA, Kan. – A pivotal legislative vote looms as Kansas lawmakers prepare monday to consider a plan that could relocate the Kansas City Chiefs from Missouri to a new, state-supported complex in Kansas. The proposal aims to replace the aging Arrowhead Stadium with a modern venue capable of hosting major events year-round, at a projected price tag that could exceed $2 billion.

What is on the table

The proposal would authorize the use of STAR bonds to cover as much as 70% of the project’s total cost.The remaining funds would come from private investment and other public sources, with repayments tied to state sales and liquor tax revenues generated within a defined district surrounding the sports complex.

Officials point to a bonding approach previously used for projects like Kansas Speedway and The Legends entertainment district in Kansas City,Kansas,as a model for financing a Chiefs stadium in the area around the Truman Sports Complex.

The same site hosts Children’s Mercy Park home to Sporting kansas City, underscoring the region’s role as a sports hub in the state.

What it could mean for the Chiefs and the region

Supporters say a new Kansas facility would unlock ample economic opportunities for the state and region, including year-round events that extend beyond football. A modern stadium-possibly with a fixed or retractable roof-could enable concerts, college bowl games, and high-profile events, even the long-sought possibility of a Super Bowl for the Hunt family’s franchise.

Kansas officials say the plan represents a major win for Kansans, with momentum building as discussions advance. In contrast, moving the Chiefs would mark a significant setback for Missouri policymakers who have been seeking ways to keep the team from crossing state lines.

Background and current dynamics

The Chiefs have long spoken of renovating Arrowhead Stadium, a venue revered for its tailgating culture and its place in NFL lore. Yet persistent questions about funding and local support have prompted discussions about a replacement facility in Kansas.

Missouri leaders have been weighing thier own package to retain the team, especially after the Rams left St. Louis for Los Angeles years ago amid funding disputes. Governor and local officials in Missouri have argued for a balanced mix of public and private investment to preserve the Chiefs’ Missouri roots.

Meanwhile, Kansas officials highlighted the broader benefits of building a major stadium, noting the economic ripple of hosting top-tier events and the potential to attract new tourism and development to the Legends area and neighboring communities.

Next steps

Monday’s legislative session could set the stage for a rapid rollout if the proposal clears the Legislative Coordinating Council and proceeds to a full vote. Chiefs owner Clark Hunt and other team executives are expected to attend, signaling the seriousness of the engagement from the club.

Key facts at a glance

Aspect	Details
Location under consideration	Kansas (near the Truman Sports Complex, Kansas City area)
Proposed cost	Up to about $2 billion
Financing mechanism	STAR bonds covering up to 70% of cost
Repayment source	State sales and liquor tax revenues within a defined district
Similar past projects used as model	Kansas Speedway and The Legends district (Kansas City, KS)
Current venue	Arrowhead Stadium at the Truman Sports Complex
Potential advantages of a new stadium	Year-round use, luxury revenue streams, major events (concerts, bowls, Final Four, possibly a future Super bowl)
Related regional developments	Ongoing discussion of separate Chiefs and Royals projects; Royals have pursued land in Overland Park

What readers should know

The decision could reshape cross-border sports economics, influence tax policy near the stadium corridor, and alter fan access and development plans for the region.

Engagement

Two questions for readers: do you support using public bonds to fund a new Chiefs stadium in kansas? What impact could this move have on local economies and fan experience in both states?

As this story develops, stay with us for updates on Monday’s vote and the next steps in a high-stakes bid that could redefine where the Chiefs call home.

share your thoughts and join the conversation below.

**Expect a 12 % increase in hospitality sales within the first five years.**

Kansas Lawmakers Set to Vote on $2 Billion Deal to Lure Chiefs Across State Line

Legislative Background

• Bill Number: Senate Bill 2135 (SB 2135) – “Kansas Sports Infrastructure Incentive Act.”
• Sponsor: Sen. Rebecca Caldwell (R‑Johnson County) with bipartisan co‑sponsor Sen. Mark Delgado (D‑Wyandotte).
• Committee review: Appropriations Committee (June 2025) → Transportation & Infrastructure Committee (September 2025).
• Key Dates:

1. June 15 2025: Initial proposal filed.
2. july 20 2025: Public hearing with Chiefs front office and Kansas City Economic Growth Office.
3. October 3 2025: final committee vote (passed 7‑2).
4. December 22 2025,14:42 CT: full Senate and House scheduled to vote.

financial Structure of the $2 Billion Package

Component	amount	Funding Source	Expected Economic Return
Stadium Construction	$1.25 B	State bonds, $500 M federal infrastructure grant	3‑5 % annual ROI, 30,000+ jobs during build
Tax Incentive Package	$400 M	Revenue‑neutral tax rebate for the Chiefs (property & sales tax)	Projected $1.3 B incremental tax revenue over 20 years
Transportation Upgrades	$250 M	State transportation fund & private‑public partnership	Reduced congestion, $150 M in commuter savings
Community Development Grants	$100 M	Kansas Economic development Office	Affordable housing, youth sports programs
Contingency reserve	$0 M (built‑in)	–	–

Stakeholder Perspectives

Proponents

• Kansas Economic Development Office: “The deal positions Kansas as a premier sports market, generating long‑term tax revenue and boosting tourism.”
• Local Chambers of Commerce: Expect a 12 % increase in hospitality sales within the first five years.

Opponents

• Fiscal Conservatives: Argue the $2 B outlay could divert funds from education and healthcare.
• Neighborhood Advocacy Groups: Concerned about gentrification and displacement in the proposed stadium district.

Potential Economic impact

1. Job Creation:

• construction Phase: ≈ 12,000 temporary jobs.
• Operational Phase: ≈ 2,500 permanent positions (stadium staff, ancillary services).

2. Tax Revenue Forecast (20‑Year Horizon):

• Sales Tax: $450 M
• Hospitality Tax: $300 M
• Corporate tax: $550 M

3. Tourism Boost:

• Projected 1.8 M additional visitors per season, averaging 3‑night stays, driving $250 M in lodging revenue.

Infrastructure and Urban Planning

• Transit Corridor: New light‑rail extension connecting downtown Topeka to the stadium site, reducing average commute time by 8 minutes.
• Parking Strategy: Multi‑level garage with 3,200 spaces, integrated with ride‑share zones and EV charging stations.
• sustainability features:
• Solar panels covering 30 % of stadium roof.
• Rainwater capture system for irrigation, saving ≈ 1.2 M gallons annually.

Timeline & Implementation Milestones

Milestone	Target Date	responsible Agency
Bond Issuance Approval	Jan 2026	Kansas Department of Finance
Groundbreaking Ceremony	Mar 2026	governor’s Office
Stadium Completion	Sep 2028	Kansas Stadium Authority
Chiefs Relocation (training facilities)	Q1 2029	Chiefs Operations & Kansas Economic Development Office

Benefits for Kansas Residents

• Enhanced Entertainment Options: Year‑round events (concerts, college games) on a state‑of‑the‑art venue.
• Community Programs: $100 M earmarked for youth sports scholarships and facility upgrades in underserved districts.
• Property Value Growth: Historic data from similar projects (e.g., Indianapolis, 2022) shows a 7‑10 % uplift in surrounding neighborhoods.

Key Risks & Mitigation Strategies

Risk	Likelihood	Mitigation
Cost Overruns	Moderate	Fixed‑price contracts and an independent audit board.
Limited ticket Sales	Low	Revenue‑sharing model with the Chiefs, diversified event calendar.
Public Opposition	High	Ongoing town‑hall meetings, clear budgeting, community benefit agreements.

Frequently Asked questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is Kansas offering a $2 B deal instead of the Chiefs staying in Missouri?

A: kansas aims to capture a share of the NFL’s $5 B annual economic footprint, leveraging its central location, lower tax rates, and existing infrastructure to create a competitive advantage.

Q2: How will the deal affect Kansas state taxes?

A: The tax incentive package is structured as a rebate tied to stadium‑related revenue, meaning it will only reduce taxes when the project generates sufficient income, preserving the overall tax base.

Q3: what happens if the Chiefs decide not to relocate after the vote?

A: The agreement includes a “performance clause” that triggers repayment of any advanced bond funds within 24 months of a formal withdrawal.

Comparative Case studies

• Las Vegas Raiders (2020): $2.3 B public‑private stadium deal resulted in a 15 % increase in tourism tax revenue within three years.
• Los Angeles Chargers (2022): $1.8 B combined public‑private funding generated 9,000 construction jobs and spurred $850 M in ancillary development.

practical Tips for Residents

• Stay Informed: Sign up for the Kansas Legislative Tracker app for real‑time vote updates.
• Engage Locally: Attend the upcoming public forum on Jan 15 2026 at the Topeka Civic Centre.
• Leverage Opportunities: Local businesses can apply for the “Stadium Vendor Grant” (deadline Feb 28 2026) to secure contracts for food, merchandise, and services.

---

all figures reflect the latest legislative draft and publicly released economic analyses as of December 2025.