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Monday, June 18, 2012

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DECATUR – The Decatur City Council on Monday voted 4-2 in favor of changes to city code outlawing all gambling except that which is legally permitted, a move that will allow video gambling in certain types of establishments as approved by the State of Illinois.

The State in 2009 approved video gambling legislation for licensed liquor establishments, truck stops and certain fraternal and veterans establishments. The issue of gambling in Illinois municipalities has seen added attention in recent months as the Illinois Gaming Board has moved forward with setting rules for the practice. The State will be responsible for administering and overseeing the video gambling process. The local language changes approved Monday state that:

• It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly permit any place or premises owned or occupied by him or under his control to be used for purposes of gambling, except as otherwise permitted by law.
• It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly play a game of chance or skill for money or other thing of value, unless the activity is allowed by state law.

In other business, the council unanimously approved a bid to install cameras in the Senator Severns Transit Center downtown and an agreement with Workforce Investment Solutions to provide education and job training. Funding for the training program will be allocated through the City’s allotment of Community Development Block Grant funds.

Contact Billy Tyus at 217-424-2727 for more information.