Business impact being considered for proposed gaming restriction

The sponsor of a proposed ordinance that would require future gaming venues to build at least 100 hotel or motel rooms on site, is soliciting comments about its potential impact from affected area businesses.

Al Kramer, Carson City treasurer, said in preparation for a business impact statement -- to be submitted along with the ordinance at a city supervisors meeting later this month -- he has contacted local business groups to give them a chance to participate.

"It's just good government to let people know what's going on," he said.

For information on Nevada law as it relates to the preparation of the statement, people may call the treasurer's office at 887-2027, ext. 1501.

Kramer said he hopes to prepare the document by Dec. 26, so comments from the business community should be back at his office by Dec. 21. They can be sent via fax at 887-2139.

A vote on the ordinance was delayed last week when the issue of the business impact statement was brought to the board's attention. Mark Forsberg, chief deputy district attorney and counsel for the board, advised waiting until the document could be included before the board takes a vote.

If approved when the board meets again in two weeks, the ordinance would require future casino developments, those holding an unrestricted gaming license (to operate more than 15 slot machines), to incorporate the rooms as part of the same property.

Backers of the change, including the Carson City Gaming Association and some business community members, say it would encourage a larger tourist draw for the city.

The move could mean the end to new developments like Slot World and its neighbor, the Silver Dollar Casino, in favor of traditional hotel/casinos like the Pi-on Plaza and Ormsby House. Barring last minute development projects, the new restriction could also change the face of the Highway 395 bypass corridor.

Developers interested in building new properties under the current gaming regulations would have an opportunity, within a year, to submit applications before the ordinance goes into effect. Properties with a history of operating with an unrestricted gaming license would also be given a grace period to revive their operations.