Story posted Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Bogusz: Oppose Video Poker
Newly-elected Des Plaines Ald. Matt Bogusz (3d) wants city leaders to make a strong statement against allowing video gambling machines in local bars, restaurants, truck stops, and veterans and fraternal facilities.
It's not that Bogusz is philosophically against those types of machines, which would provide immediate payouts. Bogusz's opposition is rooted in his belief that allowing the machines in Des Plaines and neighboring towns would cut into revenue the city is expected to receive from the new casino that's planned to open here in about two years.
"Every dollar spent on video gaming in Arlington Hts. will affect Des Plaines," Bogusz told the Journal & Topics Newspapers following Monday night's city council meeting. "Had the last city council known that 45,000 of the machines would be accessible throughout Illinois, they might have made a different decision on whether the allow the casino. The last city council promised a lot. We run the risk that the projected revenue will taper off with the video machines."
Illinois lawmakers have approved allowing as many as 45,000 video poker machines that pay out winnings to be placed in certain establishments such as bars, taverns, fraternal and veterans clubs. While the machines are currently permitted at certain locations, they do not provide cash payouts. If Gov. Quinn signs the legislation, the state could generate as much as $400 million a year with some of that money going to the individual business or location. The legislation is part of a $30 billion state capital bill proposal that would fund major infrastructure improvements.
Bogusz Monday night said the city should formulate a strong response against the video poker proposal because it could lead to fewer gaming dollars making their way to the city treasury. The Illinois Gaming Board late last year picked Des Plaines as the site of the state's 10th casino license. That designation will likely lead to the casino opening in about two years following a lengthy suitability period. It's projected that the city will generate around $10 million in new casino revenue. Bogusz's point is if video poker with payouts is permitted, that $10 million will likely be less. City leaders have indicated that the $10 million will be used for measures such as storm relief and street improvement as well as possible elimination of the city's vehicle sticker program.
City Attorney Dave Wiltse said yesterday (Tuesday) that he is in the process of studying the video poker issue to help city leaders determine whether they support the legislation or not. He said that it's his understanding that individual communities can ban the machines in their towns if they want.
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