FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Contact: Spence Jackson, (573)751-0290
Blunt Reappoints Smith to Jackson County Sports Authority
JEFFERSON CITY - Gov. Matt Blunt today announced that he has reappointed Michael Smith (R) to the Jackson County Sports Authority. Smith was originally appointed to the authority in 2003 by former Gov. Bob Holden.
He was nominated to serve another term by Jackson County Legislator Henry Rizzo (D), one of three individuals sent to Blunt for consideration by the Democrat-controlled Jackson County Legislature.
"Mike Smith has a strong passion for the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs and will continue to be a leader in the ongoing effort to keep both teams in Missouri," Blunt said. "His work on the Jackson County Sports Authority has been lauded by members of both political parties and more importantly by the people of Jackson County."
Blunt's office looked into the alleged conflict of interest charges that have been mentioned in connection with Smith's business holdings and do not think a conflict exists. Smith has written the Missouri Ethics Commission to request a formal opinion on the matter. Smith has assured Blunt that if the Missouri Ethics Commission determines that there is a conflict he will either resign from the Authority or divest himself of the conflicting business enterprise.
Pending approval by the Missouri Senate, Smith will serve on the Authority until July 15, 2010. The Jackson County Sports Complex Authority oversees operations of Royals Stadium and Arrowhead Stadium. The board consists of five members appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate. No more than three board members may be of the same political party.
The authority was formed in 1996 to study location, feasibility and design of sports and recreational facilities for Jackson County. These duties include the acquisition, construction, design and funding of sports facilities, parking, concessions and other related facilities.