Des Plaines continues to retain lobbyist for gambling expansion

The Des Plaines City Council this week approved extending a contract with lobbyist Alfred G. Ronan, Ltd. to represent the city’s interests in Springfield with respect to legislation dealing with gambling expansion.

The city retained the firm’s services at a cost of $5,000 per month starting Feb. 15 through Dec. 31, 2011. The firm also may represent the city in other legislative matters.

Des Plaines officials have outspokenly opposed legislation that would allow additional casino licenses in the state, fearing it would lessen potential revenues from a $450 million casino complex scheduled to open in the city later this year.