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Council directs city attorney to review enforcement options for coin-operated "fish game" machines after councilmembers cite neighborhood harms
Summary
Following multiple neighborhood complaints, the council voted to refer stronger enforcement of coin-operated machines and fish games to the city attorney and city manager and to explore partnering with the state Racing and Gaming Department to strengthen local enforcement tools.
Councilmembers on Dec. 8 voiced frustration with illicit coin-operated machines (sometimes called "fish games") and directed the city attorney and city manager to review enforcement options and ordinance changes. Several councilmembers described repeated neighborhood problems tied to specific locations and urged a stronger, coordinated approach with state authorities.
Councilmember Coleman said he had encountered three longstanding problem locations and urged the legal team to "take a new look" at enforcement paired with state partnership. Another councilmember called for limiting operating hours and adjusting licensing rules where permitted by state law. Legal staff and deputies noted enforcement can be evidence-based and sometimes hinges on state statute; councilmembers asked staff to explore what additional local authority can be pursued under state law.
The council voted to refer the matter to the legal department, with one councilmember making the motion and the body recording a 7-0 vote to proceed. The motion directs the city attorney to report back on potential ordinance changes and coordination opportunities with the state Racing and Gaming Department.
