CENTRAL CITY - Jason Gumer, Executive Vice President of Monarch Casino, appeared at the April 15 Central City Council meeting to discuss the negative implications of iGaming, which is defined as internet gambling. 

iGaming

Acting in his capacity as the Vice Chair of the National Association Against iGaming (NAAIG), Gumer presented the case against iGaming, following similar appearances at the Black Hawk City Council on March 19 and at the Gilpin County Commissioners Meeting on March 25. 

The coalition aims to be proactive in educating stakeholders and preparing for future legislative challenges regarding iGaming.

If iGaming were legalized in Colorado, casino jobs would be under serious threat, he said, and municipalities like Black Hawk and Central City are defending their economies by uniting against it.

 So far, only seven states have legalized iGaming, which originated in Europe. Gumer said sports betting is not as profitable as its investors had hoped, and iGaming is their latest endorsement. 

Central City Mayor Jeremy Fey suggested gathering input from casino operators. 

Jeff Hentschel, Manager of the Famous Bonanza Casino, was attending the meeting online and said, “We agree that the way all these things are being presented are going to be very detrimental to brick-and-mortar operations.”

However, he mentioned how the weather affects casino operations, and that he looked at iGaming as a possible way to increase revenue during the lean winter months. 

Gumer said the societal risks outweigh any benefits. The Council said it would be too difficult to regulate once legalized. 

Fey asked about the costs, to which Gumer replied, “There’s no cost. The way the membership structure is set up, we have three types of members. There's the casino members that pay the dues, and then the affiliate members—which include municipalities, counties, government entities, labor unions, and nonprofits—that have no cost to join.”

All were in favor of passing Resolution 25-12, joining the NAAIG. 

Traffic, public comment

The Council was informed of the upcoming closure of Highway 6 between Golden and Black Hawk. The town should expect an increase in traffic from April 20 to April 26, as vehicles are rerouted via I-70 and the Central City Parkway.

City Manager Daniel Miera said the CDOT Floyd Hill project has committed to halting blasting operations during that time, allowing for the unencumbered use of Central City Parkway. 

During public comment, citizens identified a pressing need for the City to address safety concerns regarding fast-moving trucks in the area, particularly around crosswalks and on Eureka Street, which is very narrow. 

The area west of Eureka Street leading to Columbine Campground is popular for ATVers and campers. An alternative route through Nevadaville was suggested, with a possible ban on driving trailers through town.

Accessory dwelling units were suggested to help solve housing issues and speed bumps to slow down traffic.

One citizen also proposed requesting a donation in monthly water bills or an annual drive to support the volunteer fire department.

Alderman Zane Plsek commended a gentleman who works at Dostal Alley, commonly known as “Boston John,” for sweeping up debris on the streets, though it is not his job. 

“I appreciate what he does,” said Plsek. 

Fey paid tribute to Jimmy Lewis, recently deceased, as a long-time music entertainer and friend of the City. 

“Our community lost a great friend…a smile, a tune, just a great guy with a great sense of humor, a big loss to our community,” he shared. There will be a celebration of life at JKQ BBQ this weekend.

Belvidere benefit

A Bunny Hop Dance will be held at the Central City Elks Lodge on April 19 at 7 p.m. to raise funds for the Belvidere Theatre Foundation. 

The next Council meeting is scheduled for May 6, 2025, at 141 Nevada Street, Central City, Colorado. It will be held in person at City Hall and online, as available, at centralcity.colorado.gov/meetings.