The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) made significant decisions on February 10, rejecting two separate appeals against the establishment of a new casino in Cedar Rapids. The challenges were initiated by Riverside Casino and the Washington County Riverboat Foundation. Despite these efforts, the commission maintained its previous rulings, affirming the gaming license awarded to Linn County. Although the commission's decision does not preclude further legal action, Riverside has already taken its case to court, seeking judicial review.

Commission Upholds Decision on Ballot Language and License Approval

The IRGC dismissed a challenge concerning the ballot language from 2021. This challenge was part of a broader effort by Riverside Casino to delay or overturn the commission's earlier decisions. The commission ruled that it would not reconsider the ballot language issue, effectively closing this avenue for opposition. Furthermore, the commission refused to halt the gaming license granted to Linn County on February 6, reinforcing its commitment to the project's progression.

The first challenge focused on the commission's refusal to revisit the ballot language from 2021. Riverside Casino had petitioned the commission to review this language, arguing that it was crucial for the validity of the licensing process. However, the commission determined that revisiting this matter was unnecessary and would not impact the overall decision. By dismissing this challenge, the commission signaled its confidence in the integrity of the ballot language and the procedural framework that led to the granting of the gaming license. This decision underscores the commission's stance that the original decision was sound and did not require further scrutiny.

Riverside Seeks Judicial Review Amidst Rejected Appeals

In response to the commission's decisions, Riverside Casino promptly filed a lawsuit in court. The casino's legal team is now seeking a judicial stay by February 14, aiming to pause the licensing process until the court can review the matter. While the commission's rejection of the stays does not prevent Riverside from pursuing legal avenues, it does indicate that the administrative process will continue unabated unless the court intervenes.

Following the commission's denial of the stays, Riverside Casino swiftly moved to the courts, filing a lawsuit to challenge the gaming license awarded to Linn County. The casino's attorneys are requesting that the court rule on a stay by February 14, which could potentially halt the licensing process temporarily. According to IRGC Committee Member Alan Ostergren, while the commission's decisions do not impede Riverside's right to seek judicial review, they ensure that the administrative process remains on track unless the court orders otherwise. This legal maneuver reflects Riverside's determination to contest the licensing decision through all available means, highlighting the ongoing tension between the casino and the regulatory body.