The Peoria City Council approved new regulations for video-gaming parlors by a six-to-four vote.
The new rules require any restaurant or bar wanting to operate a video gaming to prove 80-percent food or drink sales for at least two years. City Councilwoman Beth Jensen voted for the new rules, although she says she originally planned to vote against the measure, wanting more restrictions. Still, Jensen says the rules aren’t perfect, but a starting point:
“Establishments that I’m concerned about the city being oversaturated with are those video gaming cafes, and I think what passed is going to prohibit them from opening up right now.”
Supporters say the two-year-limit means businesses wanting main revenues from gambling versus food or drinks would fail. Councilwoman Beth Akesen voted against the measure, questioning how the city could effectively inspect sale receipts of potential video gaming businesses.