Conflicted

The Chiefs aren't losing yet and the Royals will always hopelessly suck, but there is still a lot of action at KC's sports complex:

The questions come as Mike Smith, chairman of the Jackson County Sports Complex Authority, is seeking reappointment to the authority. On Monday, Smith said Gov. Matt Blunt’s office notified him last week that he had been appointed to a full five-year term.

But Blunt’s office refused to confirm the appointment Monday. . .

The controversy involving Smith, who has served on the authority since 2003, stems from his pursuit of a $398 million shopping and entertainment district in Lee’s Summit. At the same time, the sports authority has pursued a retail development at the Truman Sports Complex.

Smith’s pursuit of retailers and customers for the Lee’s Summit project could compete with the Truman Complex entertainment and retail district, some legislators said. The sports authority, however, recently placed that idea on hold.

The Lee’s Summit project at Missouri 291 south and U.S. 50 could include a minor-league baseball team and a new 4,000-seat baseball stadium. The team could compete with the Royals for the same customer base.

Smith, a Lee’s Summit insurance agent, insisted Monday that no conflict existed.

Personally, I automatically assume that everyone wearing a tie is out to rip me off. Look closely at any guy wearing a suit, there is no conflict of interest as long as everyone understands that he is only looking out for his interests. Education, nice clothes, and gullible public officials have always been essential for businessmen who can steal far more than the average low level thug could ever dream. Apparently, you don't need a ski mask to rob people blind, you just need a power tie.