Casino gets council OK

Photo: Contributed

A new destination casino passed a major hurdle Monday in Penticton as it was given official approval by city council.

Gateway Casinos & Entertainment Ltd. wants to relocate its Lake City Casino from the Lakeside Resort to the South Okanagan Events Centre site.

The decision was a foregone conclusion, as the city had already negotiated the deal with Gateway and announced the project with the company last year. The city had actively sought to keep the business in Penticton after Gateway previously announced it would not be renewing its lease at the Lakeside.

The new site at the SOEC will bring up to 150 new jobs and a $25-million construction investment to the local economy. The Cascades Casino will include a gaming floor, multiple full-service restaurants and live entertainment. It will also feature a rooftop restaurant patio.

“As members of the Penticton business community for over 15 years, we are very excited about this redevelopment project and the first-class entertainment options it will allow us to bring to Penticton’s entertainment destination,” said Gateway senior vice-president Jag Nijjar.

Gateway sought public support by hosting five open-house sessions to solicit feedback and suggestions.

“Gateway Casinos has always valued the opinions of people in this community, and the input we’ve received continues to enhance our project," said Nijjar.

The next step for Gateway is to continue working with its partners to finalize plans for the new location.

The new casino is expected to open in spring 2017.