SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KTIV) -
The folks at City Hall don't have much say over the future of a land-based casino in Sioux City.
However, the location is something they're not leaving it up to luck.
Sioux City's casinos have always floated on water. There's no zoning regulations for land-based casinos on the books. Now, the city's working to remedy that.
"Your commission decision was based on what you feel is the best location," asked Sioux City Mayor Bob Scott to Planning and Zoning Commission President Mark Jensen.
"We felt it would be most beneficial for the city to have it downtown. In complies more with the comprehensive plan," said Jensen.
In their recommendation, the city's planning and zoning commission suggested the casino zone be bounded by the Missouri River, Eighth Street, Wesley Parkway, and Floyd Boulevard. Monday night, the council accepted that proposal. Downtown Partners called it a game changer.
"We think it's critical that you take into account the residual development that would occur as a result of locating that casino in downtown Sioux City," said the group's president Jim Wharton.
Several council members said they're still open to other suggestions outside of the recommended area.
"I've gotten all kinds of different ideas from a lot of people," said Council Member Rhonda Capron.
The council got one more Monday night. Resident Dennis Benson suggested the casino be built atop Prospect Hill.
"Has a view that is the best in Sioux City, without a doubt," said Benson, who owns property, along with several family members on the hill.
Two other outside suggestions put the casino in Morningside. However, one of those ideas is in the Sergeant Bluff school district. The tax revenue wouldn't go to Sioux City Schools.
The zoning needs to be approved two more times before it becomes part of the ordinance.
Even though Sioux City wants to put a casino downtown, it's up to the gaming license holder to decide where the casino lands.
