The Peoria Metropolis Council has formally taken steps to pursue the relocation of the Par-A-Cube On line casino from East Peoria to its aspect of the Illinois River. On Tuesday night time, the council unanimously permitted hiring a authorized professional and an funding agency to steer the negotiations, escalating the rivalry between Peoria and East Peoria over the way forward for the on line casino.
The council’s resolution marks the primary public transfer within the long-standing debate between the 2 cities about the place a land-based on line casino ought to in the end be situated. Peoria Mayor Rita Ali has pointed to a 1991 settlement between the municipalities, which stipulates that any land-based on line casino ought to function in Peoria, not East Peoria.
Peoria Metropolis Legal professional Patrick Hayes reaffirmed town’s place, describing the settlement as “simple” in mandating {that a} land-based on line casino belongs on Peoria’s aspect of the river. Town council’s decision demonstrates its full assist for Mayor Ali’s efforts to carry the on line casino to Peoria.
Partnering with Consultants
To bolster its case, Peoria has enlisted Innovation Capital LLC, a outstanding funding agency, and legal professional John Elias, who focuses on gaming-related negotiations. Town intends to indicate Boyd Gaming, the operator of Par-A-Cube On line casino, that it’s severe about internet hosting a brand new land-based facility.
Beneath the settlement, Innovation Capital will obtain a month-to-month retainer of $10,000, with extra charges if their hours exceed this base price, in keeping with the Peoria Journal Star. Ought to Peoria safe a growth settlement with Boyd Gaming, the agency would earn an additional $250,000. Elias will probably be compensated at $395 per hour for his providers.
The preliminary contract with Innovation Capital spans six months, however metropolis officers acknowledge the negotiations might take longer, probably requiring an extension. Metropolis Councilman Tim Riggenbach praised Mayor Ali for her management, emphasizing the significance of this effort for Peoria’s future financial growth.
A Strained Rivalry
The strain between Peoria and East Peoria over the on line casino’s location has been constructing for months. Earlier this 12 months, Boyd Gaming hinted at plans to transition Par-A-Cube On line casino from its riverboat setting to a contemporary, landlocked facility, sparking renewed curiosity from each cities.
Peoria’s push for the on line casino to maneuver has led to friction with East Peoria Mayor John Kahl, who accused Peoria of straining the connection between the 2 cities. Emails exchanged between the mayors revealed disagreements over the interpretation of the 1991 settlement.
Regardless of the competition, Assistant Metropolis Supervisor Kimberly Richardson said that Boyd Gaming has not but specified a location for the on line casino’s relocation. She emphasised that Peoria is getting ready for all prospects by conducting feasibility research and making certain compliance with Illinois Gaming Board laws.
The Financial Stakes
Relocating Par-A-Cube On line casino could possibly be a big financial increase for town that hosts it. For Peoria, the potential growth aligns with the Illinois Gaming Board’s requirement that Boyd Gaming current plans for a state-of-the-art facility inside the subsequent two years.
Peoria’s proactive method displays its dedication to safe this chance. Richardson famous, “We’re doing our due diligence and ensuring that we’re ready and prepared for when that plan is introduced and launched.”
