The Aurora City Council on Nov. 25 approved an ordinance amending section 8-131 of the municipal code to permit a modest expansion in video-gaming terminals for qualifying social clubs and small businesses. After debate, the council voted in favor (8 yes, 1 no).

Deputy chief of staff Nicholas Roussar Thompson told the council the local casino opposed any expansion and communicated concern that expansion could "interrupt their economic activity." Thompson summarized research he said indicates the effect on the casino would be "incredibly negligible" while the change could provide a lifeline to small businesses and social clubs. "Most people who are big time gamblers don't even think about those small time [machines]," he said, arguing the clientele for social-club terminals is largely incidental and distinct from casino patrons.

Council members discussed possible safeguards, including distance limits and grandfathering existing establishments. Alderman Franco suggested considering rules that would limit issuance near the casino or limit new certificates to businesses not already competing closely with the casino. The council noted existing ordinance language that constrains new licenses within a geographic radius and asked staff to upload the presentation for further review.

Revenue estimates were discussed during the presentation: an overall revenue estimate of about $155,000 to $156,000 was mentioned along with licensing revenue of approximately $56,000 and additional per-machine fees. Supporters argued the change helps long-standing local social clubs survive and retains local commerce.

The council called the question and approved the ordinance by recorded vote. The mayor asked staff to upload the presentation and to consider distance and other protective measures in future applications.