Stoney administration opens public survey to inform resort casino proposal request
Richmonders encouraged to weigh in on a tourism and economic development opportunity
Starting today, Richmonders can take a survey asking what they believe the city should consider in a proposal for a potential resort casino in Richmond. The survey will be open through 11:59 p.m. on December 14.
The results of this survey will inform the Request for Qualifications/Proposals (RFQ/P) document, which will begin the competitive process to select a resort casino operator and site. The RFQ/P will outline the expectations the city and its residents have for a complete and competitive development proposal.
This survey is only the beginning of community engagement for a potential resort casino development. The selection process will consider community feedback, and a citywide voter referendum will determine if Richmond moves forward with the project.
“A competitive selection process will allow us to assess the best opportunity for Richmond,” said Mayor Stoney. “This survey is your opportunity to make sure the development proposals reflect your priorities, such as living-wage jobs, sustainable building practices and investment in the community."
“Our primary objective is to identity a successful proposal that has outstanding economic opportunities and community benefits for Richmonders”, said Director of Economic Development Leonard Sledge. “We anticipate receiving multiple submissions, and we want to put a process in place to identify an operator and site that results in a true win for Richmond.”
Legislation adopted by the Virginia General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Northam earlier this year authorizes the city to host a casino gaming establishment, subject to the residents of Richmond approving a casino referendum. That referendum is anticipated to be on the ballot in November of 2021.
The law requires that the city select a preferred resort casino operator and location prior to requesting the court to order a casino referendum. Rather than pre-select an operator, the administration has chosen to engage in a competitive process.
The four other localities given permission by the state to solicit proposals for a casino development passed referendums on Election Day, 2020. Read more here.
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