The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission announced its decision Thursday morning on whether to grant a license for a $40 million casino in Jefferson.
The commission voted 3-2 in favor of granting a new license. The casino is the first to be granted a license by the commission since 2010.
The first commission member voted against granting the gaming license citing the saturated market in Iowa for gambling and the current overall decline in business at casinos. The second member voted to approve a license for the new casino.
The third member said due to the current saturated market that "it is not the time for any new casinos" and voted no. She said she felt the community was fully behind the hotel and events center but not as enthusiastic about the casino.
The fourth member of the commission voted to grant the license.
The final vote came from Jeff Lamberti who voted yes.
The commission in April rejected a plan for a Cedar Rapids casino, citing market saturation.
Wild Rose Entertainment is proposing a gaming resort that would include slot machines, table games, an events center and a 71-room hotel. Supporters say the plan would add jobs and create millions for charity.
Prairie Meadows Casino in Altoona was lobbying against the plan, warning that it would cut into its profit.
Jefferson is a town of less than 5,000, about 60 miles northwest of Des Moines.
Look for reaction for the town later today on KCCI-TV, KCCI.com and on our mobile website and apps.
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