Input sought on video gambling in Libertyville
Libertyville officials are seeking public input on the idea of allowing video gambling in the village.
A town-hall meeting on the topic is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Libertyville Civic Center, 135 W. Church St. Mayor Terry Weppler will open the session with an overview, then address questions and comments on an issue that surfaced this summer when tavern owner Ed Downing asked the village to consider allowing it.
No official votes have been taken and the matter has been deferred to allow for public input. Weppler in the past has arranged town hall meetings on proposed tax hikes to repair roads and to convert the former Brainerd building into a community center. Village officials say they have received several comments in advance of the session, most of them against the idea.
Five years ago, shortly after state law authorizing video gambling took effect, village leaders voted to prohibit video gambling. After Downing's request, the village board's license and permits committee last July discussed the matter and recommended it be forwarded to the full village board for a vote.
In September, a group of ministers asked the board to defer action, saying the activity had the potential to "diminish the quality and character" of the community. In a letter to the board earlier this month, a group of 14 religious leaders reiterated their concerns, saying they oppose video gambling and asked trustees to vote against the proposal.
Video gambling would be an enticement for any business that holds a liquor license, and foster commerce "that preys upon human weakness," according to the letter. State law allows video gambling at licensed businesses where liquor is served on premises, at truck stops and at fraternal or veterans establishments.
"We're interested in the well-being of the community," said Brian Paulson, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Libertyville. "Instead of being something that serves a broad community purpose, this is really a loss to the community," he added.
Communities receive 5 percent of the net revenue from the machines, a small amount that religious leaders say isn't worth the risk.
Police Chief Clint Herdegen told trustees there were no problems or complaints related to video gambling in other Lake County towns that allow it. Trustees have not tipped their hands, although there was concern raised about exterior signs that advertised the activity and potential "stand alone" gaming parlors.
The proposed ordinance prohibits exterior signs and contains conditions that could result in revocation of the liquor license or video gaming terminal license issued by the village.