TITLE
Recommendation to request City Attorney provide a memorandum outlining the legal issues that need to be addressed in order to allow casino-style gambling within the City of Long Beach; and should the City Attorney advise that this issue requires the vote of the residents of Long Beach, request that the appropriate language be prepared so that this matter can be placed before the voters at the City's next general election to be held in February 2008.
DISCUSSION
BACKGROUND
The City of Long Beach is a prime tourist location in need of a steady source of revenue to support the public services and infrastructure of a city its size.
California has seen an explosive growth and acceptance of casino-type gambling over the past ten years that has resulted in millions of dollars of needed revenue for both the State and the local jurisdictions where these casinos are located.
Long Beach should not pass up the opportunity to add to its "tourist spots" a first-class, casino that could potentially provide a source of revenue that will allow the City to meet its obligations to provide first class public services and infrastructure to its residents.
There are a variety of legal issues that must be addressed for Long Beach to move forward with this concept that must be presented to the City Council for its review and decision.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
COUNCILWOMAN GERRIE SCHIPSKE
FIFTH DISTRICT