As the Illinois gaming market grows, businesses are looking to cash in. One new plan being brought forward is to install slot machines at a public golf resort.
The Steeple Chase Golf Club in the village of Mundelein is seeking just that. The golf course wants to add a few gambling machines in its clubhouse in an effort to bring in new customers and provide revenue during the lean winter months.
The village board tasked with deciding the issue is divided.
Club’s plan is to add 3 slot machines and 2 golf simulators
There are more than a dozen casinos in Illinois. But other facilities can be approved to add gaming devices.
Though a popular golf course, Steeple Chase Golf Club wants to add amenities in an attempt to bring in new customers, Executive Director Ron Salski told the Daily Herald.
“We want to remain competitive.”
Steeple Chase’s plan is to install three slot machines in its clubhouse. The machines would be in a secure room in order to keep minors from gaining access. To get in, players would have to scan their photo IDs to confirm they are of legal age. Alongside the three gambling machines would be two golf simulators.
Salski recently pitched the course’s case in front of the Mundelein Board of Trustees. He claimed the machines could generate between $40,000 and $60,000 annually. That figure does not include the extra money from new golfing customers attracted by the machines, Salski said. Additionally, he told the board that having the machines would help the golf club keep prices low.
While it would be the first establishment in the park district with gambling machines, there are 16 bars and restaurants in Mundelein that offer a total of 89 licensed slot machine-style games.
Village board divided on allowing slot machines at golf club
There are six trustees on the board. Four have indicated a willingness to approve the proposal. One of the four, however, has said they aren’t enthusiastic about the plan. The other two have made it clear they are against the proposal.
The 89 gambling machines in Mundelein have proven to be very popular. This year so far, almost $51.6 million has been wagered on the machines. That handle has led to just below $1.3 million for the state and $218,597 for the village. Financially, it makes sense for the village to add more gambling options.
No date for a decision has been reported. The recent meeting was just a listening session. No action was taken.
