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Herndon planning commission recommends denial of proposed casino zoning text amendment
Summary
After staff noted the state vetoed SB 756, the commission recommended denial of ZOTA 26-03, a proposed zoning text amendment to define casino terms and restrict where casinos could locate; commissioners debated whether to keep language ready for future state action but voted 7-0 for denial.
The Herndon Planning Commission on May 18 recommended denial of a proposed zoning text amendment that would have defined casino-related land‑use provisions and limited where a casino could be located in town.
Staff planner Lisa Gillerin told the commission the ordinance was drafted in anticipation of state legislation (Senate Bill 756) that would have authorized casino gaming; the governor vetoed that bill on April 9, 2026. Because the enabling state action did not occur, staff recommended the commission recommend denial of ZOTA 26‑03 as “not needed at this time.”
Commissioners discussed whether to send the measure back for more detailed sizing and placement examples or to deny now and revisit the issue if the state’s posture changes. One commissioner urged the body to be proactive about protecting the town in case the issue returns; others said the current legislative veto removed the immediate need to adopt local restrictions.
Chair Romeo moved to recommend denial and the motion was seconded; the clerk recorded a unanimous roll-call vote of 7‑0 to recommend denial to the town council.
The commission’s recommendation is advisory to the town council, which will consider the zoning text amendment in its legislative capacity if the applicant or council pursues the measure further.
