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Commission recommends code definitions for gaming facilities, separates charitable gaming
Summary
Planning staff proposed and the Commission recommended a Land Development Code amendment to define 'charitable gaming' consistent with state law, consolidate bingo halls and clarify where charitable and non-charitable gaming uses are allowed; staff will follow up with Metro Council and continue discussions with Churchill Downs over non-charitable language.
The Planning Commission voted to recommend that Metro Council adopt amendments creating clearer definitions and placement rules for gaming facilities and charitable gaming. Joe Haberman (Office of Planning) said the amendments would align local code with recent state changes and replace the older, broad "game room" interpretation with distinct use types for "charitable gaming" (mirroring state law) and separately defined non-charitable gaming facilities.
Staff recommendations include allowing charitable gaming in the same commercial districts where similar hospitality uses are permitted (C-2, C-3, EZ-1), and to allow smaller charitable facilities (capped at 5,000 square feet) in C-1 districts to reflect how many charity operations actually operate. Haberman flagged that Churchill Downs had submitted a letter with concerns about the noncharitable gaming definition and asked commissioners whether to continue the item so staff could meet with the company; several commissioners said the ultimate legislative decisions rest with Metro Council but welcomed additional engagement.
Public testimony: Supporters described charitable gaming as a meaningful local funding source for nonprofits. Mike Mulrooney, founder of Shirley's Way, said charitable gaming revenues have supported thousands of households and local programs, and urged approval of clearer language so nonprofits can operate quickly and legally. Councilwoman Cindy Fowler joined remotely and urged action while noting she would work with staff and Churchill Downs about their concerns at the Council level.
Action: Commissioners debated whether to continue to allow current gaming operations to remain under the legacy game-room interpretation or to adopt the staff-recommended split; the Commission ultimately moved to recommend the staff report and proposed changes to Metro Council while noting the Churchill Downs letter will be included in the record for Council consideration.
