A pivotal decision has emerged from the Virginia Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee, which voted 10-6 against House Bill 1373, introduced by Delegate Kim Taylor. The bill had proposed allowing Petersburg voters to determine the fate of a $1.4 billion casino resort project by The Cordish Companies. While the bill survived a prior vote by the Senate General Laws Committee, its rejection by the Finance and Appropriations Committee carries significant implications for both Petersburg and neighboring Richmond’s casino aspirations.
The Decision’s Impact:
The outcome of the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee’s vote signifies a significant setback for the proposed casino resort in Petersburg. This decision effectively blocks Petersburg residents from having a say in whether to approve The Cordish Companies’ ambitious project. The impact of this verdict reverberates beyond Petersburg, particularly in Richmond, where the council president sees a renewed opportunity to sway voters towards a casino proposal.
Richmond’s Chance for Redemption:
The decision is met with celebration by Richmond City Council President Michael Jones, who recognizes that the vote opens a window for Richmond to reposition its casino proposal and garner the support of voters. In the past, the city’s residents rejected a proposed $565 million casino plan by Urban One on the Southside of Richmond. Now, with Petersburg’s casino proposal encountering obstacles, Richmond has a fresh chance to advocate for its own casino project and address concerns that led to the previous rejection.
Delegate Taylor’s Perspective:
Delegate Kim Taylor expressed her disappointment over the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee’s decision, deeming it a setback for both the people of Petersburg and the democratic process. She asserted the importance of enabling Petersburg to independently shape its economic future and lamented the implications of the decision for the community.
Details of The Cordish Companies’ Project:
Had the bill been approved, Petersburg voters would have had the opportunity to decide on The Cordish Companies’ $1.4 billion casino project. The proposed resort was set to encompass over 670,000 square feet of gaming, hospitality, dining, and entertainment offerings. Features of the project included a 200-room hotel with 20 suites, a variety of gaming options including slots, electronic table games, and live table games, a sportsbook, and an event center for various gatherings. Additionally, the resort aimed to offer multiple dining and entertainment choices alongside free surface parking.
The Virginia Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee’s vote against House Bill 1373 is a pivotal moment that shapes the trajectory of casino projects in the region. The decision’s impact extends beyond Petersburg to Richmond, providing the latter with an opportunity for casino redemption. As both cities navigate the evolving landscape of casino legislation, their decisions will not only affect local economies but also reflect the democratic process that shapes community futures.