Batavia considers allowing video gambling at Funway

The Batavia City Council is considering expanding video gambling to allow the Funway amusement center to add machines.

The council also plans to review fees paid by establishments that already offer gambling.

The discussion followed a request by Funway owner Bob Hansen, who said video gambling would allow him to take advantage of more available revenue.

"Other businesses allow it," Hansen said. "It's tough when you're singled out."

Funway, at 1335 S. River St., offers indoor and outdoor activities that include roller skating, an arcade, batting cages and bowling.

Alderman Michael Russotto agreed with Hansen.

"How can we not allow a business to take advantage of this opportunity?" he asked.

But Alderman Elliot Meitzler said he doesn't want more video gambling. He was not a council member when the decision was made to allow it in the first place.

"I would not have supported adding video gambling," he said. "I'm not in support of expanding it."

Hansen told the group he did his homework while researching state requirements. He said he surveyed customers and they believe the machines will not change the venue's image.

The gambling stations would be behind a door in a room that currently is used for storage, he said. There would be a sign stating the area is restricted to those 21 and older and it would be video monitored.

Alderman Marty Callahan said they are discussing a conditional-use permit so granting Hansen's request would have no bearing on other applicants. Other businesses would have to meet requirements of Batavia's video gambling code to be considered for a permit.

"If there is an establishment that should have been allowed in first, (it's Funway) because it's gaming," Callahan said. "It should be allowed here."

"If anyone is going to do this right, it's them," Alderman Scott Salvati said.

Not everyone agreed.

"I don't want (gambling) at all," Alderman Mark Uher said. "It's something we should try to discourage in our town."

Mayor Jeffery Schielke said the council should look at revenue from gambling machines and possibly consider raising fees.

Hansen said he plans to apply for a state gambling license as Batavia officials continue the discussion, but ultimately will wait for their decision.