Public will get a chance to weigh in on new casino licenses

COUNCIL BLUFFS – The public will soon get its chance to weigh in on the possibility of the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission issuing new gaming licenses, opening the door for additional casinos in Iowa.

The commission will hold a public hearing May 4 at Stoney Creek Inn in Johnston to allow public comment.

The commission is expected to decide whether to issue new licenses at its May 13 meeting. Four casino proposals located in Lyon, Tama, Wapello and Webster counties are under consideration.

Commissioner Toni Urban of Des Moines said people have been vocal in their support of a casino in their area -- or their opposition. Commissioners already have received hundreds of letters, she said. Urban is hopeful many of those people who wrote letters come to the May 4 hearing.

“Many of them have specific reasons why they do or don't want a casino in their community and you know, if they care enough, they're going to show up and voice it publicly,” Urban said.

Commission Chairman Greg Seyfer of Cedar Rapids believes the commissioners will hear the full range of opinions from those opposed to gambling or new casinos, supporters of new casinos and those concerned that new casinos could cannibalize the business of casinos operating in Iowa.

“I think we know what the issues are, and it will be interesting to hear what the public has to say,” Seyfer said.

Gov. Chet Culver, a Democrat who is up for re-election this year, has urged commissioners to issue licenses to all four proposed casinos.

Proponents have argued a new casino would bring needed jobs and economic development to their communities.

Opponents to gambling expansion have raised concerns about the possibility of a saturation of the gaming market with Iowa already home to 17 state-licensed casinos and racetracks.

Carrie Tedore, director of public relations for Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque, expects backers of the proposed casino in Fort Dodge to attend.

“The project has received overwhelming support, and we do plan to have a lot of supporters on hand for the public hearing,” Tedore said.

The May 4 hearing is scheduled to begin at approximately 9:30 a.m. Those wishing to speak must sign up in advance, although they can do that on-site the day of the hearing.

Those who are unable to attend the meeting and want to submit written comments can email the commission at irgc@iowa.gov or send them to the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission, 717 E. Court Ave., Suite B, Des Moines, Iowa, 50309.