Holden backs KC stadium and cultural plan

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Months after backing a St. Louis stadium and downtown development plan, Gov. Bob Holden proclaimed his support Monday for a Kansas City stadium plan linked to the renewal of a local sales tax.

Holden said the proposal to renovate the homes of the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals and pump money into regional cultural projects would "build economic security and create high-wage jobs for Missouri families."

But the prospects are uncertain for both the Kansas City or St. Louis proposals, which are grouped in legislation along with other economic development projects around the state.

Before any of the projects can occur, a majority of the state Legislature must give its approval.

Supporters say they don't have enough votes in the House, and Senate opponents have threaten to delay a vote through prolonged debate.

"It's still not economic development, whether it's a stadium in St. Louis or a stadium in Kansas City," said one of the leading opponents, Sen. Sarah Steelman, R-Rolla.

Senate legislation is low on the chamber's debate calendar. The House has yet to pass its version out of a committee.

But Holden said he believes an economic development bill still can pass before the Legislature adjourns May 17.

"I'm positive," he said. "I think this can be done, and I expect it to be done ... this session."

While the Chiefs consistently draw large crowds to Arrowhead Stadium, the Royals' attendance at Kauffman Stadium is among the American League's lowest and the team has gone years without a winning record.