LORAIN — Poker fans could soon have a nearby spot to gamble.

City Council is mulling an ordinance that would allow the city to lease private property so nonprofit groups could use the facility for charitable gaming.

The proposal came about because Mike Kennedy, owner of Kennedy’s Billiards and an avid poker player, has been advocating the use of his facility to help non-profits raise money.

“What makes poker festivals fun is their predictability and continuity,” said Mayor Tony Krasienko. “When some of these groups have them, sometimes they don’t make any money because no one wants to come down to play with just a few people or for just a little while. Mike has about 1,800 people who will come and play poker, so it should be very successful.”

State law only allows government facilities, veterans halls, sporting facilities and fraternal organizations to host gaming festivals for charity. Kennedy’s Billiards could only host such an event if the city leased it for a short period of time. The city would be reimbursed.

Council could not take action on the issue Wednesday because nine votes in favor were needed to pass the ordinance on its first reading. Only nine members were in attendance and two of the members, Greg Holcomb, D-at large, and Melanie Szabo, I-1st Ward, abstained because they belong to groups that may use the facilities.

In order to comment, you must agree to our user agreement and discussion guidelines.
You must be registered and logged in to post a comment. If you aren't already registered, click here.
If you are registered, click here to log in.
Need help? Email Us.