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Des Moines Accepts Racino Agreement

IOWA – As reported by the Des Moines Register: "Des Moines city leaders, in agreeing Monday to accept millions of dollars from the state's most profitable racetrack-casino, will stand against any private company's attempts to bring a riverboat casino to the city.

"The agreement with Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino and its owner, Polk County, almost guarantees a battle with local entrepreneur Gary Kirke and Isle of Capri Casinos, who want to build a $150 million, Des Moines-area casino and hotel. Kirke's spokeswoman said Monday night the group was continuing with its petition drive to place the issue on the November ballot in both Polk and Warren counties.

"…The three-way agreement approved Monday among Polk County, Des Moines, and Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino guarantees the city millions of dollars each year, but continues to leave the door open for a new casino.

"…A Des Moines casino would have to clear two large hurdles, and Monday's action added a third.

"Polk County voters would need to approve another license in November, and state regulators would have to grant a second license in Polk County. Iowa lawmakers last winter cleared the way for more gambling in Iowa, but the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission will decide which counties whose voters have approved the idea of gambling will get licenses…"

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