Aurora, Illinois

File #: 18-0169    Version: 1 Name:
Type: Reports/Studies Status: Filed
File created: 2/22/2018 In control: Government Operations Committee
On agenda: 2/27/2018 Final action: 3/6/2018
Title: A status report and recommendations for regulating video gaming terminals within the City of Aurora.
TO: Mayor Richard C. Irvin

FROM: Wendy McCambridge, City Clerk

DATE: February 23, 2018

SUBJECT:title
A status report and recommendations for regulating video gaming terminals within the City of Aurora.
body
PURPOSE:
To provide an update to City Council regarding the research conducted during the temporary moratorium on the issuance of video gaming terminal licenses and develop next steps for changes to the related Resolution(s) and Ordinance(s).

BACKGROUND:
The Illinois Video Gaming Act (230 ILCS 40/1) enacted in 2010 enabled video gaming terminals to be allowed in bars and restaurants on their premises as an accessory use. In 2012 the City of Aurora adopted an ordinance establishing that a license is required for video gaming terminals and adopted the Illinois Video Gaming Act in its entirety. An annual fee and application process was established and mirrored the requirements in the Illinois Video Gaming Act. The Act establishes that a business is allowed to operate up to five machines per licensed establishment. The statute defines a licensed establishment as "...any licensed retail establishment where alcoholic liquor is drawn, poured, mixed or otherwise served for consumption on the premises, whether the establishment operates on a nonprofit or for-profit bases (230 ILCS40/5)." The City of Aurora has not adopted or imposed any further regulations or restrictions and the City currently does not regulate video gaming separately from its regulation of alcohol through issuing of liquor licenses. A six (6) month moratorium was adopted on September 12, 2017 to allow staff adequate time to research options and an approach for the City of Aurora to regulate the issuance of video gaming terminal licenses

DISCUSSION:
During the moratorium the following activities were conducted:
* Review of municipalities statewide who allow for video gaming terminals
* Review of other states who allow for video gaming terminals
* Review of the State of Illinois Video Gaming...

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