The city council’s unanimous vote propelled the progress of a potential casino in Danville.
At the recent Danville City Council meeting held on Tuesday, unanimous support was given by council members with a vote of 6-0 to endorse a development agreement with Caesars Entertainment. This vote grants the authority to Danville City Manager Ken Larking to approve the plans by signing off on them.
The ultimate decision regarding the $400 million casino and resort project in Danville rests with its residents. Through a referendum scheduled for Nov. 3, during the general election, they have the power to officially endorse or reject the project.
The Danville casino has the potential to commence construction in late 2021 or early 2022, pending approval from voters. As per statements from Danville and Caesars officials, it is anticipated that the casino will be operational by 2025.
About the Danville casino development agreement
The development agreement between Caesars and Danville is a legally binding document that clearly defines the commitments and deliverables that Caesars has promised to provide.
Caesars was selected as the preferred casino operator by Danville officials in May after the Virginia General Assembly approved the legalization of casino gambling and sports betting in the commonwealth in April.
The Danville resort is set to include 300 hotel rooms, a conference center spanning 35,000 square feet, and an arena with a seating capacity of 2,500. Additionally, guests will have access to a pool, spa, fitness center, as well as various restaurants and bars.
The casino-resort located on the former Dan River Mills industrial complex in Schoolfield can be discovered by residents of Virginia.
The Danville casino holds significant importance as it has the potential to create 1,300 full-time employment opportunities and an additional 900 temporary jobs during its construction phase.
In addition, Caesars will make an initial payment of $5 million to acquire the Schoolfield site, and within 30 days of the referendum’s approval, they will provide an additional $30 million to Danville. The agreement also encompasses various community initiatives, such as providing new vehicles for the fire department and making contributions to community groups.
By its third year of operation, the casino in Danville has the potential to generate an annual tax revenue of $20 million.
Council member abstains but supports Danville casino
All council members voted in favor of Tuesday’s city council vote, except for one member who abstained from voting.
According to J. Lee Vogler, he stated that he was unable to vote due to a conflict of interest.
Vogler holds the position of marketing director at Andrews Brooks Media Group, a company that has established an advertising agreement with Caesars.
Despite this, Vogler made a commitment to support the Danville casino.
Despite the fact that my employer is currently involved in marketing work for the project, I wholeheartedly endorse it. I firmly support the city’s chosen approach for this project and the deal that has been arranged. It is truly remarkable.
Danville mayor stumps for casino project
The vote on the Danville casino held on Tuesday was a simple and uncomplicated event. Nevertheless, as the meeting drew to a close, Danville Mayor Alonzo Jones emphasized once again that the project is dedicated to the benefit of the Danville community.
A voter referendum will determine if Danville, along with four other cities, will be granted permission to construct casinos in Virginia.
During Tuesday’s meeting, Jones and other council members emphasized that the decision ultimately lies with the voters. Nevertheless, they consistently highlighted how Danville is transforming into a genuine success story.
Vogler referred to it as a “city of progress,” while others hailed it as an authentic “All-American city.”
Jones is eager to fulfill the needs of Danville residents as the potential casino approval draws closer, with only two months remaining.
“We have put in a tremendous amount of effort to provide this to our citizens. Sometimes, individuals prefer it to be a decision made by the council, as it gives them an opportunity to criticize the council more easily. However, our primary focus has always been the well-being of our citizens, and both the council and our city staff remain dedicated to serving their best interests.”
Related Articles
