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Aurora delays vote on expanding video gaming terminals amid casino and community concerns
Summary
The council paused action on an ordinance that would amend local video gaming terminal limits after aldermen urged more outreach to Penn Entertainment (the casino) and review of community impacts; the item was tabled until the Nov. 4 meeting.
Council members on Oct. 28 debated a proposed amendment to city code that would increase allowable video gaming terminals in certain establishments. Supporters said modest increases would help small bars and social clubs; opponents cautioned that raising the limit chips away at prior, deliberate city decisions and could strain relationships with the city’s casino partner.
Alderman Franco said he appreciated outreach to the casino and emphasized the importance of the city’s integrity in dealing with major partners: "When we make an agreement with an entity, a major entity especially... our word means something," he said, urging more conversation before action. Aldermen discussed projected revenue and licensing fees — staff cited a projected $155,000 revenue figure and a licensing fee projection of approximately $56,000 but noted projections are estimates.
Multiple aldermen asked staff to confirm outreach and provide clearer input from Penn Entertainment and local business owners; several said a short delay would allow for that outreach and better data. On a motion to table the ordinance until the next council meeting (Nov. 4), the council voted 11–1 to hold the item for further review and conversations with the casino and stakeholders.
The council asked staff to prepare additional information on fiscal projections, the casino’s position and public‑health or problem‑gambling concerns before the next vote.
