A developer who missed the deadline to file an application with the Kansas Gaming Commission to build a casino in Ford County is now requesting an extension.
The Las Vegas-based company Epic Gaming asked the Ford County Board of Commission on Friday to petition the Gaming Commission for an extension, and the commissioners agreed.
"They had the application physically on the premises, but the Lottery Commission didn't feel like they could receive it because it was shortly after 5 o'clock," said Dave Snapp, a Dodge City attorney representing Epic Gaming. "Of course, we think it's in the best interest of the public that you look at all qualified proposals."
Snapp asked the commissioners to sign a letter asking for a one-day extension.
"The bottom line is, the lottery executive director has made it clear that he wants to qualify as many applicants as possible and has indicated great flexibility in the application evaluation process," Commission Chairman Kim Goodnight said, reading from the letter to be sent to the Gaming Commission. "Even to the extent that applicants would be allowed to change the location and other major elements of the application, all the way through the end of the evaluation process. Surely a few minutes should not disqualify an application or applicant from being evaluation and reviewed."
All applications to build a casino in Ford County were due to the Kansas Gaming Commission by 5 p.m. Wednesday. Two developers, Dodge City Resort & Gaming and Butler National Inc., met the deadline. However, Butler National is the only developer who has asked for and received an endorsement from the city and county so far.
"I believe that, with your request, I believe (an extension) will be favorably considered," said Snapp. "I believe they have the discretion to extend deadlines as well. Of course, they have extended the deadlines in the past, and I think they probably will in this case."
Commissioner John Swayze recommended signing the letter, and the commissioners unanimously agreed.
"I think the more applicants, the better," said Swayze.
By signing the letter, the commissioners are not endorsing either Epic Gaming or their proposal. Epic Gaming and Dodge City Resort & Gaming will eventually be required to seek an endorsement from the city and county in order to build, if the
Attempts to reach Epic Gaming for details on its proposal were unsuccessful.
Snapp said the development group currently has an option agreement for a tract of land in Ford County, but he was unable to disclose the exact location.
"They regard the special events center as a very key component in the success of this casino as well as the success of a special events center," he said.
"Ideally, the group that is finally chosen is going to be one that is going to work with closely with Dodge City and Ford County and develop a long-range plan that will benefit this entire community," said Goodnight. |
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