Story posted Friday, June 5, 2009
EDC To Discuss Casino, Sims Property
By TODD WESSELL Journal & Topics Editor
The planned new casino and the downtown Des Plaines Sims Bowl property will be the subjects of discussion among members of the city's Economic Development Commission (EDC) at their next meeting on Wednesday, June 10 at 7:30 a.m. in city hall.
Representatives of Midwest Gaming and Entertainment, LLC will present to commissioners at the early morning meeting. It's also believed that commissioners will discuss potential uses for the Sims Bowl Ellinwood Street property following the recent announcement that Sims, its adjoining cocktail lounge and The Depot Restaurant will soon close.
"The mayor, city manager and head of the city's Community Development Dept. are interested in engaging the talents of the EDC," said commission chairman Jim Ulett. "We plan to discuss the Sims property and ideas on its future use. We want to make sure we do everything we can to get it occupied and sold. It's a prime spot downtown. It will be kind of a brainstorming session."
Ulett said he expects commissioners to ask questions about the casino project. He added that he personally will ask whether Midwest will use local businesses to provide their many of their service needs.
Mayor Marty Moylan said recently that he wants the EDC to take on a more involved role in potential development throughout the city. He said that the commission's membership in terms of experience and knowledge is a valuable asset that should be utilized.
Midwest may start building the casino in less than two years. Currently, the Illinois Gaming Board is conducting a suitability study to make sure all of Midwest's employees as well as top city employees and officials are suitable to be involved in the new, highly regulated gaming operation.
Last December the gaming board picked Midwest's plan to develop and own the state's 10th casino in Des Plaines. The casino will be located on the west side of River Road about two blocks north of Devon Avenue. Midwest owner Neil Bluhm has also said he plans to develop adjacent property by building one or two hotels and restaurants.
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