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Council moves to align local rules on gambling machines with state law, allows existing registered machines until expiration
Summary
Council approved first and second readings of an ordinance amending local code to align regulation of gaming/gambling machines with state law and to allow currently registered operators to continue until their registration expires.
The Bellemead City Council voted on the first and second readings to amend the city code to bring local regulation of gambling machines into alignment with state law. City staff told council the proposal would allow businesses that are currently registered with the city to continue operating until their registration expires but would prohibit new or unregistered machines.
Staff said the city currently has fewer than 10 businesses that register gaming machines; the ordinance would let registered operators continue for the period of their registration (staff said the registration term is one year) but would allow the city to take action sooner if there are complaints or violations. The city manager said the change reflects research and staff discussions with affected businesses, and that staff had met with owners in advance of the change.
Council approved the ordinance readings on voice/roll call; council asked staff to monitor registrations and complaints and to enforce the code if unregistered machines or public complaints arise. The ordinance will return for subsequent readings as required by the city's ordinance-adoption process.
