It was supposed to be a $43-million dollar project that created jobs, increased tourism and raised revenue. Rhythm City Casino and the city of Davenport agreed on the riverfront development deal in 2005. However, the 181 room hotel and parking ramp were never built. The city decided to enter an agreement with another developer for a land based casino and
Now, Rhythm City and the city backed developer are negotiating the sale of the gaming license. Thursday, the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission moved the process one step further when a hearing was held to renew the casino's operating license.
The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission decided to renew Rhythm City's annual operating license. However, there are conditions, in 90 days the casino has to report back to the commission about the status of negotiations. It's a move Davenport city leader's support.
"This is where riverboat gambling started; this is where they should be loyal to. This is where they should have made their commitment years ago. They made a decision that's fine, we made a decision as a council, we don't want them here," says Davenport Mayor Bill Gluba.
"We are not satisfied with the broken promises that have been made by the Isle of Capri from years ago. Even back in 2005 when the development deal was signed by the Isle," says Davenport Alderman Gene Meeker.
"This is the first time they've had to deal with a dispute between the city and the gaming provider," says Davenport Alderman Jason Gordon.
"The commissions have the power to pull that license, but again they've never done this before. This is uncharted territory, so a lot of caution on the commissions part for obvious reasons," adds Mayor Gluba.
"I think what we brought to them today was the clear message that there is another sentiment out there. That is the sentiment of the citizens of Davenport that feel the deal from 2005 was hallowed. By being at this meeting we got across that the citizens of Davenport are not happy, the city council is not happy and we're ready for a change," says Davenport Alderman Bill Boom.
A spokesperson from Rhythm City released a statement saying they are very pleased with the outcome of the hearing and will keep the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission informed.
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