AGLC approves Camrose Casino relocation

The decision comes after significant deliberation, and has sparked mixed reactions from various stakeholders and the public.

Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) has given the green light for the Camrose Casino to relocate to south Edmonton, overturning a previous rejection from 2022.

The approved proposal includes an 88,000 square-foot facility featuring 498 slot machines, 25 table games and eight poker tables at 420 Parsons Road SW.

This decision comes after significant deliberation and has sparked mixed reactions from various stakeholders.

The AGLC states that the move will generate “significant additional revenue” for the provincial government. The regulator also emphasized that the relocation will support continuous business operations and provide jobs for Albertans.

A key aspect of the approval is that despite moving to Edmonton, the Camrose Casino will remain in the rural pool for charitable gaming events. This arrangement has raised concerns among Edmonton-based non-profit organizations, who fear it will negatively impact their access to gaming revenues.

The Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues and the Edmonton Chamber of Voluntary Organizations, for example, have expressed disappointment with the decision, citing potential resource diminishment for urban non-profits.

The relocation has also faced opposition from Edmonton’s city council. Mayor Amarjeet Sohi voiced concerns about a potential 5% decline in gaming revenues for city charities.

Scott Cyr, the MLA for Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul, however, defended the relocation, stating: “Relocating the Camrose Casino was an eminently reasonable request, given that Edmonton is where the North’s gaming dollars naturally flow.

“Yet now, when Northern Alberta seeks a modest adjustment to ensure equitable distribution of charitable gaming revenue, Edmonton responds with resistance and self-interest.”

While the AGLC has approved the relocation, the move is not yet finalized. The casino still needs to secure municipal land-use permits, zoning and development approvals and construct the new facility.

David Thompson

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