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City officials in Aurora have raised the number of gambling terminals permitted in local businesses, a move they say will boost revenue and support small establishments. The decision, announced Tuesday, Nov. 25, has drawn strong opposition from Hollywood Casino Aurora.
How Aurora’s gaming expansion impacts Illinois casinos
Until now, businesses were limited to five video gaming terminals. That cap has been increased to six per business, and the overall citywide limit has risen from 40 to 240 terminals.
Officials say the change is expected to generate an additional $56,000 in licensing revenue and up to $155,000 in tax revenue, with more potential growth as three new businesses prepare to open. They also argue the additional machines will help local bars, restaurants and social clubs that have already maxed out their previously allotted terminals.
“There are a lot of times when we help businesses, they are the big, large companies from out of town,” said Ald. Daniel Barreiro of the 1st Ward. “Very rarely do we get an opportunity to help local small businesses.”
Deputy Chief of Staff Nicholas Richard-Thompson told a City Council committee in October that the request to raise limits is permitted under state law. He said applications for the newly available slots will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Hollywood Casino pushes back against expansion
City officials delayed an initial vote after receiving the proposal Oct. 28, seeking input from Hollywood Casino Aurora, which is in the middle of a $360 million construction project across from the Chicago Premium Outlets mall. Casino representatives made clear they opposed any increase in gaming terminals elsewhere in the city.
Mayor John Laesch said the casino expressed firm opposition under all circumstances. “They will consistently oppose any form of added competition. That was the message conveyed,” Laesch said.
Several aldermen voiced mixed views. Ald. Edward Bugg of the 9th Ward supported delaying the measure, citing both the casino’s role in the community and the importance of gambling tax revenue for nonprofits. Though he acknowledged the benefits for small businesses, he said any business relocation brings uncertainty.
Other objections focused on potential impacts near the new casino site. Ald. Carl Franco of the 5th Ward said he was uneasy about a business opening near the incoming casino and seeking to add terminals. Richard-Thompson responded that such a request would require City Council review before approval could be granted.
Some aldermen shifted positions after conversations with local establishments. Ald. Juany Garza of the 2nd Ward said she was initially wary due to concerns about gambling addiction but ultimately supported the measure after hearing from social clubs that favored the change. “If they feel they can earn a little more with one additional machine, I’m fine with that,” she said.
Addressing the casino’s broader objections, Richard-Thompson said research shows casino patrons differ from social club visitors and that the expansion would not harm the casino’s growth. He said those seeking dedicated gambling experiences will continue to choose the casino, while a bar patron may use a machine simply because it is available.
City leaders respond and final vote outcome
After extended debate, the City Council approved the measure in an 8–1 vote, with Bugg casting the only dissenting vote. Alds. Shweta Baid of the 10th Ward, Patty Smith of the 8th Ward and Ted Mesiacos of the 3rd Ward were absent.
Aurora’s vote comes amid efforts to stabilize revenue, including a higher hotel tax and the grocery tax through 2025, while preparing for 2026 budget cuts. State law does not currently authorize online slots, table games, or online casinos in Illinois, though online sports betting is permitted under separate state regulations.
