Batavia ordinance change could allow video gambling at Funway

Funway, an entertainment center in Batavia that offers bowling, roller skating and bumper boats, is now a step closer to adding video gambling machines.

The Batavia City Council on Monday approved a change in the ordinance that would allow businesses holding a Class E-3 liquor license, which includes amusement centers, to add video gambling terminals.

With the same 8-5 vote, the council approved raising the city's annual site fee from $1,000 to $1,500 for terminal operators who provide the gambling machines to local business owners.

Invoices for 2020 already have been sent out, so the increase for current operators would not be charged until 2021, City Administrator Laura Newman said. However, any new applicants will pay the $1,500 fee.

Video gambling is a conditional use in Batavia, which means businesses must apply for approval and the city considers each application on an individual basis.

With the ordinance change, which goes into effect in 30 days, Funway owner Bob Hansen can now apply for a video gambling permit.

"I've got to be optimistic it will go through," Hansen said. "It's just another step."

Aldermen Marty Callahan and Scott Salvati said video gambling is appropriate for Funway.

"If there's any business that should have been included, it's Funway," Salvati said. "I don't consider this an expansion - it's an inclusion."

During a committee of the whole discussion in October, Hansen said he believed the gambling machines will not change the venue's image. At Funway, 1335 S. River St., the terminals will be behind a door with a sign stating the area is restricted to people 21 and older. It will also be video-monitored.

Alderman Abby Beck voted against the change Monday. She said she was not in favor of adding more gambling in Batavia.

"Gambling is addictive," Beck said. "With a conditional use we can deny it but, the more we approve, the harder it will be to deny."

After the meeting, Hansen said the gambling machines could offer another entertainment option for people coming to Funway.

In addition to applying for the permit from Batavia, Hansen said he has filed the necessary paperwork with the state and he's waiting for approval.

"I'll stand by until the process is completed," he said.