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Lawsuit filed over Zoning Commission ruling on OTB in Danbury

The Danbury Zoning Commission will likely have to take up a text amendment change again that would open the door to off track betting as an accessory use in a restaurant.  An lawsuit was filed by a downtown business owner last week appealing their May 9th decision, alleging noncompliance with notification requirements. 

 

Sportech Venues doesn't agree with the allegation in the complaint, but intends to go back to the Zoning Commission to eliminate the issue.  The company is taking a conservative approach to the approval. 

 

Sportech wants to locate an OTB facility on the second floor of Two Steps Downtown Bar and Grille on Ives Street. 

 

The Zoning Commission's decision was not site specific.  That approval or denial would have to be given by the City Council.  The Danbury Planning Commission previously issued a positive recommendation.  

 

Only 18 OTB licenses are allowed statewide.  Sportech Venues has exclusive licensing rights in Connecticut and would provide 1.6 percent of gross revenue to the City.  The state Department of Consumer Protection Gaming Division must also inspect and approve the facility before operations can begin.

 

Meanwhile, the two federally recognized tribes are reportedly offering the state incentives so lawmakers pass a bill giving them the ability to open a new casino, and not a bill opening up bidding.  The Courant reports that the tribes would place slot machines in off-track-betting parlors in Waterbury, New Haven and Bridgeport as part of the deal.  They are also promising the state $25 million up front.

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