Talk Of Slots In Baltimore City Is Back
BALTIMORE (WJZ)--A handful of businesses have expressed an interest in building a city slots casino.
The Maryland Slots Commission tells Suzanne Collins it comes as the original developer's failed plan is dealt another legal blow.
The Canadian developer's slots casino was to open with live music and slot machines right near Russell Street on New Year's Eve. But when the company didn't have the required cash, the plan fell apart. Now the state contract appeals board rules against that developer's attempt to keep his license.
"We just received the decision yesterday," said Don Fry, Greater Slots Commission Baltimore Committee. "We're going to sit down with legal council to see if we can rebid the city site ASAP."
People who work in the horse racing industry suggest perhaps the Pimlico track would be a better place for city slots. A candidate for mayor suggests the city-owned Hilton on Pratt should house slots. But legally these sites are not an option.
The area near the stadiums is the only place the city can build a slots parlor because voters approved a constitutional amendment that says it must be within one half mile of Interstate 95 and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, and it must be in a non-residential area.
The city councilman who represents that part of the city says for almost a year neighbors have been prepared for the coming casino and accept it.
"It's a gateway to the city," said City Council Vice President Edward Reisinger. "Looking at Washington, D.C., other suburbs coming and we've already had meetings with the community leaders, business leaders."
The Canadian developer who is suing the city could drag its case though the courts for months, but other companies are interested in taking over where that one left off.
"We have received word from a number of companies, number of individuals who've expressed an interest in the Baltimore City location when it's possible to do so," Fry said.
It could be another year before a city slots casino opens—even if the bidding process begins again now.