Alberta gambling regulator denies moving casino to Edmonton

It was revealed the other day that Camrose Casino is scheduled to move from Camrose to Edmonton. This decision was approved by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis regulator, which issues licenses for land-based and online casinos, and all involved were notified.

However, the transfer was then put on hold because public opinion was against it. The regulator received about 500 applications, 98% of which protested against the casino relocation. As a result, an AGLC spokesperson said that the plans to relocate were suspended indefinitely due to a lack of local support.

Despite the reversal, the regulator has still criticized Edmonton residents and local action groups for giving them several days' notice of the move, even though the rules state that such changes must be announced in advance.

Gemma Dunn, executive director of the Edmonton Chamber of Voluntary Organizations, said she has already filed her objections with the regulator and is awaiting a response. Gemma argues that nonprofits have barely survived the demand and pressure of local casino closures due to the pandemic. Now, the abrupt opening of casinos could cause a surge in player activity, who are now playing online.

Gemma's biggest fear was the reduction in funding for nonprofit charities, which would certainly occur if casinos were to open in the region. She said the annual sum would be cut by $7 million, which would almost destroy their raison d'être.

As it eventually became known, the controversy over the relocation continues in court. It turned out that the land that was set aside for the casino also belonged to a nonprofit organization. The society sent a letter to the regulator explaining that it would only agree to the construction in the event of a full buyout, but this has not happened.