North Charleston City Council passed a first reading Thursday of ordinances that would allow casino boats to sail from the former Navy base complex on the Cooper River.
The initial approval came after a public hearing at which about 12 people spoke against the notion, with one in favor, a city spokesman said.
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File/Richard Burkhart/Savannah Morning News
North Charleston is considering using boats similar to this Diamond Casino craft that was tied up recently on the Bull River in Savannah.
A second and final reading will come later. The boats could begin operating as soon as this winter.
As envisioned, the boats' docking area would be confined to a specific area that covers the waterfront south of Riverfront Park to as far down as Shipyard Creek.
Whichever boat companies opt to come in would have to negotiate with private property owners about setting up parking and a docking/departure point in that area. About three sites are large enough to be suitable, city officials said.
City staff members have estimated that North Charleston's revenue could approach at least $700,000 per year from the operation of the boats.
The cruises would offer slots, blackjack, poker and other casino games, plus dining and entertainment. The boats would sail to a point outside the state's territorial limit, where the gambling would begin.
In other business, council approved a plan to buy 20 speed humps and place two of them in each City Council district. The units cost about $3,000 each.
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