DCI reveals background checks on developers vying for new Woodbury Co. casino

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By Forrest Saunders, Multimedia Journalist - email

JOHNSTON, Iowa (KTIV) -

If you want to get a gaming license in Iowa, you better be prepared for a background check.

In a closed-door Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission meeting Wednesday night in Johnston, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation reported their background checks on the three operators looking to build a new, land-based casino in Woodbury County.

DCI agents couldn't say what's in the reports conducted on Ho-Chunk, Inc., Penn National Gaming, and Sioux City Entertainment.

But, they admit agents looked at everything from corporate finances, to criminal history.

Agents say they don't give a recommendation for any of the groups, just list the pros and potential cons of each.

"Are they viable within the state of Iowa, meaning can they bring their business into Iowa and be successful doing that," said DCI Special Agent Patrick Townsend.

Commissioners will individually decide how much weight to give the reports.

They announce which developer gets their new Woodbury County gaming license April 18th.

The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission meets, again, Thursday.

None of the three companies vying for Sioux City's casino are on the agenda. But, several others, already operating in northwest Iowa, are.

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DCI reveals background checks on developers vying for casinos - KTIV News 4 Sioux City IA: News, Weather and Sports

DCI reveals background checks on developers vying for new Woodbury Co. casino

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