The City of Peoria has withdrawn its legal challenge against the proposed $160 million redevelopment of the Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino in East Peoria. The lawsuit aimed to halt plans for a new casino facility, but a revised proposal by owner Boyd Gaming has led to the dismissal.
Key Takeaways
- Peoria has dropped its lawsuit concerning the Par-A-Dice casino renovation.
- The legal challenge was based on concerns about a land-based casino violating agreements.
- Boyd Gaming’s revised plan shifts the gaming floor to a permanent barge on the river.
- The Illinois Gaming Board has yet to give final approval to the revised plans.
Legal Battle Over Casino Location
The City of Peoria initiated legal action to prevent Boyd Gaming from constructing a new casino facility on land, specifically on a basin drawing water from the Illinois River. Peoria contended that this plan contravened both the updated Illinois Gaming Act and a 1991 intergovernmental agreement with East Peoria. This agreement stipulated that land-based casino operations must be situated within Peoria’s city limits.
Revised Plans Shift Focus to River Barge
During an Illinois Gaming Board meeting on February 6, Boyd Gaming presented a revised proposal. This new plan relocates the gaming floor to a permanent barge situated on the river. Representatives from Boyd Gaming argued that this alteration effectively renders Peoria’s legal challenge moot, as the casino would no longer be land-based in the disputed location.
Next Steps for Approval
The Illinois Gaming Board has postponed a vote on the revised plans. A special meeting has been scheduled for February 26 to finalize the consideration of the matter. The City of Peoria has stated its intention to reinstate the lawsuit should Boyd Gaming revert to its original plans for a land-based casino.
Previous Settlement Attempts
Before filing the lawsuit, the Peoria City Council narrowly rejected a settlement agreement. This proposed settlement would have permitted Boyd Gaming to proceed with its initial plans in exchange for a percentage of the facility’s annual adjusted gross revenue, an amount estimated to be around $1.8 million.
