Richmond Casino Developer Considers Legal Action in Virginia

By Jerry Smith Staff Writer Updated: 06/15/2022

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Richmond Casino Developer

It has been revealed that the developer of the proposed One Casino & Resort in Richmond, Virginia, is considering legal action over what it claims is an unlawful move by the Virginia General Assembly.

This comes after Richmond City Council championed a move for a second vote this fall for the casino to be allowed in Richmond following the defeat of the proposition by a very narrow margin last November.

The original proposition was defeated by a margin of just 49-51 percent last November, which resulted in disappointment among those who were hoping to enjoy the benefits of a huge casino resort in the city. However, there was then a push for a second referendum to be held in November, which revived hopes for supporters of the development.

It has now emerged that state legislators passed a measure that would block this second referendum from taking place, although this has yet to be signed off by the state governor Glenn Youngkin. According to reports, the governor is still undecided as to whether to give his signature to the measure or not.

Denying Economic Opportunities

Among those who have expressed disappointment about the latest move is the Richmond mayor, Levar Stoney, who has supported the development because of the new opportunities it will bring to the city.

He said he was disappointed the Virginia General Assembly had amended the budget:

…in a way that will deliberately harm the city of Richmond by denying economic opportunities for its residents. We are still assessing our legal options but remain firm in our belief that the citizens of Richmond should not be disenfranchised just months before they would have the opportunity to vote.

Many benefits have been highlighted by supporters of the casino development. These include the creation of many more jobs in the area, the ability to increase tourism in the city, and the chance to bring in a lot of new revenue for the state. Many voters were also looking forward to the creation of a new entertainment venue.

However, those opposing the development have also put forward their arguments since legislation was passed in April 2020 giving Richmond and a number of other cities in the state permission to create gaming facilities subject to voter approval. Among the arguments were the risk of increased crime and the likelihood of an increase in problem gambling in the city.

An Unlawful Move

The developer of the casino resort, Urban One, has now described the move by the Virginia General Assembly as unlawful. Officials have indicated that the company is considering filing a lawsuit in order to ensure that a second referendum is allowed.

According to Urban One, a March ruling from Richmond City Circuit Court judge Reilly Marchant upholding the proposed ballot move from the Richmond City Council is being unconstitutionally invalidated through the retroactive budget.

The company said that this meant that the Virginia Lottery Board could not fulfill its regulatory authority in the same way as it does for other casino developments and properties.