Aurora expands video gambling despite opposition from city’s casino operator

Aurora’s City Council has approved an expansion of video gambling in local businesses, advancing a policy long sought by bar owners and social clubs but opposed by the city’s casino operator, Hollywood Casino.

The council voted 8–1 to raise the cap on video gambling terminals from five to six per licensed establishment and increase the citywide limit by 40 machines, bringing the total allowable number to 240. The change gives all 38 currently licensed businesses the ability to add one machine and opens space for three new applicants.

City officials said the expanded cap is expected to boost revenue through licensing fees and taxes. Aurora projects an additional $56,000 annually from terminal licenses and another $155,000 from its existing gambling tax.

“Very rarely do we get an opportunity to help local small businesses,” Ald. Daniel Barreiro said, framing the update as a modest but necessary measure for establishments that rely on gambling terminals for supplemental income. Ald. Edward Bugg, the lone dissenting vote, acknowledged that the devices serve as “more of a lifeline” for some social clubs but urged caution given broader uncertainties.

The proposal was delayed in late October after Hollywood Casino-Aurora, which is developing a new $360 million facility across from the Chicago Premium Outlets, voiced objections. When the measure returned to the council this week, officials said the casino remained opposed.

“They’re going to always oppose any other competition of any form. That was the message that was relayed,” Mayor John Laesch said.

Some aldermen raised concerns about potential impacts on the casino, gambling addiction and the possibility of new gaming establishments opening near the casino’s future site. Ald. Juany Garza, who had previously questioned the social impact, said she shifted her stance after discussions with business owners. “If they feel they can make a little bit more money with an extra machine, I’m OK with that,” she said.

City staff said research shows video gambling terminals draw a different customer base than casinos. Deputy Chief of Staff Nicholas Richard-Thompson said those who go to casinos and those who go to social clubs are different types of people, adding that patrons in bars might use a machine just because it happens to be there.

Aurora’s push to widen access to video gambling comes as the city seeks to strengthen its revenue base ahead of expected 2026 budget pressures. Officials this year approved a higher hotel tax and extended a local grocery tax that is set to end elsewhere in Illinois. Proposed budget plans include cuts to staffing.

Alds. Ted Mesiacos, Patty Smith and Shweta Baid were absent from the meeting and did not vote.