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Iowa Casino Hopefuls Make Case

JOHNSTON, Iowa -- As reported by the Ottumwa Courier: "Ottumwa casino backers waited more than eight hours Wednesday, but they don't have a much better idea of the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission's plans.

"Wild Rose Ottumwa was the last of the 10 applicants for a casino license up for discussion. That left Ottumwa supporters waiting for the rest of the sites to finish. Part of the wait was caused by criticisms, something Ottumwa didn't have to deal with.

"Ottumwa's presentation was brief compared to most of the rest. There were no opponents. Both factors help the city's bid according to Gary Kirke, whose company will operate the casino.

"…Commissioners generally said they want three to five new casino licenses. Commissioner Kate Cutler would go as high as six new licenses, while Commissioner Mike Mahaffey wants to keep the number at one or two.

"That doesn't really give local supporters a much better idea of Ottumwa's chances than they had when they arrived Wednesday.

"…Local officials have consistently played down any rivalry with the Washington County application at Riverside. They did so again Wednesday when asked what impact a Riverside license would have on Ottumwa. Riverside did much the same when asked about an Ottumwa license…"

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