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Council pauses vote on bingo ordinance after operators warn pull‑tab ban would cripple nonprofits
Summary
Police-backed code changes to tighten bingo licensing and security were introduced; a proposed ban on certain instant-bingo and pull‑tab formats prompted testimony from operators and an attorney who said the games are legal tools for nonprofit fundraising. Council continued the ordinance to Aug. 11 for staff and legal follow-up.
The City Council delayed final action on an amended bingo ordinance after hearing sharp disagreement over language that would bar "hot ball" and certain instant‑bingo or pull‑tab formats.
Police Chief Johnson told council the code changes update licensing, financial reporting and security requirements for nonprofit bingo operators and would prohibit some game formats the department believes could jeopardize tax-exempt status. "These games are not authorized by the IRS," Chief Johnson said, listing…
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