VOTE: Should New Lenox Allow Video Gambling?

Originally published May 17

New Lenox trustees will soon decide whether to allow video gambling in bars and restaurants, but Mayor Tim Baldermann said his biggest concern is working with the state.

In 2009, the Illinois General Assembly legalized video gambling machines with plans to fund construction projects with the revenue. As part of the bill, individual communities can decide whether to allow video gambling, which features games such as blackjack and poker. 

Homer Glen trustees voted to ban video gambling earlier this month, fearing they would be responsible "for all the problems" it may bring, according to TribLocal. Frankfort officials banned it in 2010, saying  they don't want in the community. 

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If approved in New Lenox, the village and local businesses would see additional revenue. Baldermann said the state estimated the village's cut would be 5 percent, yielding at least $150,000 in revenue for New Lenox. But Baldermann doubts that amount of money would come in.

For starters, not all businesses would get the machines. Then there's the issue of the state budget and whether local officials can trust the government to not take more than promised. 

"My biggest concern is doing business with the state of Illinois," the mayor said. "They say we'll get 5 percent of the revenue and businesses get 35 percent. But that could be 35 percent today, then 25 percent tomorrow. I have a philosophical issue with how they balance their budget. They keep coming up with scheme after scheme." 

Baldermann invited every business with a pour liquor license to meet and discuss the option. Some restaurants said they're "family restaurants" and wouldn't offer gambling. Others said it's vital to their survival. 

"Several say they really want us to allow it because they need it for their future success," Baldermann said. "We have to look out for our businesses." 

There are some stipulations. Video gambling machines would only available to businesses with a "pour" liquor license, meaning bars and restaurants, as well as places like the and would be able to offer the machines. Other businesses with liquor licenses, such as Walgreens or Jewel, wouldn't be able to have gambling machines. 

Establishments could have up to five machines and would have to keep them in a separate area from the rest of the regular seating area. An employee would be tasked with monitoring it. 

The board will discuss the issue further at its next meeting, which is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 29 in . A vote would likely come at the first meeting in June.