The Racing and Gaming Commission will meet on Thursday to discuss a casino license for Ottumwa.
By Matt Buhrman
Tuesday, July 14, 2009 at 9:43 p.m.
Read more: Local
OTTUMWA, IOWA -- Is a casino still in the cards for Ottumwa? That is what many Iowans are asking Fact Finder, and the answer could be just days away.
The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission will meet again on Thursday in Johnston, Iowa to consider expanding the state's number of gaming licenses.
While an Ottumwa casino could mean a strong economic boost for the community, Wapello County Supervisor, Steve Siegel, said that the current recession has already forced one casino in Sloan, Iowa to close. And it has also delayed a casino expansion project in Davenport.
These factors might sway the commission's decision. Governor Chet Culver is in favor of Ottumwa receiving a casino license if the commission approves them.
"Sometime ago [Governor Culver] said that if there were to be additional licenses in Iowa, that Ottumwa and Fort Dodge should be first in line. And he said that repeatedly and I assume he means it," Supervisor Siegel said.
Wapello County voters would have to approve another gaming referendum in 2010, regardless of the commission's decision. Supervisor Siegel added that investors would not even consider construction until after that vote.
"So if I had to guess, I would guess they would kick the decision down the road a few more months, maybe even a year. But I don't know any more than anybody else," Supervisor Siegel added.
