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After heated debate, board adopts video gaming ordinance changes and grants supplemental license to Santa’s Village
Summary
Trustees debated a proposed removal of a 750‑sq‑ft threshold intended to limit 'gaming cafés.' An amendment to retain the square‑foot threshold failed; the board approved the ordinance as presented and granted Santa's Village a supplemental video‑game license conditioned on application updates and payment of additional fees.
The board considered amendments to code sections governing video‑gaming terminals, zoning and fees. Debate centered on a 750‑square‑foot objective threshold designed to prevent gaming cafés from locating in downtown areas. Some trustees argued the square‑foot rule provided an objective test and helped keep gaming‑cafe models out of the historic downtown; others said the threshold disadvantaged small businesses and that existing establishments were grandfathered.
An amendment to retain the 750‑sq‑ft threshold for new businesses was proposed and defeated on roll call. The full ordinance as presented was then approved by the board (roll call recorded in the minutes). Trustee Guzman/Guma recused themself from part of the gaming discussion earlier in the item. During the same meeting the board also approved a supplemental video‑game license for the bar inside Santa's Village (the Polo Northwest bar) conditioned on updating their application and paying fees for any additional terminals.
Board members asked for more community input on future gaming policy questions and for planning‑commission review of definitions such as 'gaming café' and whether special‑use rules are appropriate for that use.
