Kemper To Get RFP

The group argued that tearing down Kemper and constructing a new building would save $100 million in long-term maintenance costs, but critics pointed to the $20 million in taxpayer investment required in the plan, according to the Kansas City Star.

“There’s not a lot of love for the American Royal proposal,” Councilman Ed Ford reportedly said.

Ultimately, Ford and other councilmembers agreed there’s a legal requirement to issue a request for proposals for redevelopment plans. For its part, American Royal reps said no other group has a viable plan that would decrease taxpayer burden, bring more activity to the American Royal complex that is home to Kemper Arena, or honor the association’s binding long-term lease with the city.

The decision to issue an RFP likely holds up any decision on the fate of Kemper Arena for the near future. City staff is expected to prepare the RFP and present it to a joint committee in December.