The Danbury City Council is making a recommendation that an off track betting facility be approved, under certain conditions.  Sportech Venues wants to locate a paramutual betting facility in Two Steps Downtown Bar and Grille on Ives Street.  Sportech officials say less than 20-percent of the building would be dedicated to wagering. 

After a public hearing Monday night, the group decided to have the City's attorney take another look at the proposal.  They discussed the proposal for about two hours.  There would be a limit on the square footage.  Types of gaming not specified in the contract is not allowed.  Relocation of the business requires a new approval.  Sportech would have to apply for and hold a City-issued entertainment license.  There was discussion about whether or not to require the City Council to approve a transfer of either OTB facility or the restaurant. 

Sportech has exclusive licensing rights in Connecticut and Danbury would be their  17th location in the state.  The state legislature approved a bill this past session allowing Sportech to have eight more off-track betting licenses, for a total of 24 possible locations throughout Connecticut. 

The Danbury Zoning Commission signed off on the proposal last year, amending City ordinances to allow an off track betting facility as an accessory use in a restaurant. 

Three people spoke during the public comment portion of the night.  Two Steps owner Tom Devine spoke on his own behalf.  He noted that Two Steps staff would be providing the food and beverage service at the OTB facility on the second floor of the building.  Devine asked the Council to make a decision, in part, based on his operating history.

CityCenter Director PJ Prunty spoke in favor of the idea, citing a City ordinance which described the downtown entertainment district.

Resident Ken Gucker opposed the proposal.  He raised concerns that another company could come in and petition the state, saying that Sportech has a monopoly.