The Kansas City Royals are facing a time crunch as the Truman Sports Complex contract in Kansas City nears its expiration. As with the Kansas City Chiefs, the Royals are in need of a new place to play soon. The team is exploring options following recent discussions about STAR bonds in the state.
STAR Bonds have been touted as a potential solution for stadium and arena construction needs across the state. However, according to Jon Leuth with Americans for Prosperity Kansas, STAR Bonds may not be the best option for the Royals’ venue needs. He believes that the legislative post-audit from 2019 showed that only a few projects funded by STAR Bonds have been successful out of many.
Senate President Ty Masterson defended the STAR Bond option, explaining that the reserve fund for these bonds is funded by an increase in sales tax in the designated districts, rather than being a general obligation of the local government. Masterson and House Speaker Dan Hawkins have indicated that a tax cut package must be agreed upon for the STAR Bond proposal to move forward during the upcoming special session in Kansas.
Despite this rush to consider STAR Bonds for up to two stadiums in the special session, Leuth has raised concerns about the lack of vetting in the process. Questions remain about stadium ownership, responsibility for future renovations, and infrastructure development around the stadium. It remains uncertain whether or not STAR Bonds will be enough to solve all of these problems and ensure that both teams have a place to play long term.
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