The skill games saga continues, and at least one town in Pennsylvania has 'seen the light' and has imposed restrictions on skill games. Meadville, Pennsylvania has limited skill games to three specific areas in the city, but those who want to set up skill games are still required to undergo a strict process involving submitting their plans, notifying neighbors, and waiting for a vote from the appointed board members.

The owners of online casinos in Pennsylvania have reason to celebrate, as one city this week in the Keystone State has heeded their concerns regarding the proliferation of skill games. Meadville, a city of historical significance and vibrant community life, has finalized its decision to limit the spread of skill game parlors, much to the relief of casino operators who view these games as direct competition.

The final vote, which took place earlier this week, saw Meadville citizens and city officials issue a resounding 'no' to the unregulated spread of skill game parlors. This decision marks a turning point in the local debate over these gaming machines, which have sparked controversy due to their resemblance to traditional slot machines, even though they are legally distinct.

Skill games parlors now limited to three zones

The seeds of this decision were sown in August when the Meadville City Council took a unanimous preliminary vote to introduce zoning restrictions for skill games. Skill games, which are different from standard slot games since they require a certain level of decision-making and player interaction, have nonetheless raised concerns due to their similarity in appearance and function to slot machines. Critics argue that these games can operate in a gray area, often evading the same stringent regulations that apply to other forms of gambling.

In response, the City Council moved to curb their spread within Meadville. The newly approved zoning ordinance limits skill game parlors to just three designated zones in the city. As the Meadville Tribunal reports, while current businesses featuring skill games will be allowed to continue operating, any future establishments will have to be situated within the approved areas. These zones include:

  • The area west of the French Creek Parkway
  • The North Street-State Street corridor in between Grant and Water Streets
  • Park Avenue, all the way from Linden Street to Pine Street

While these areas have been earmarked for potential skill game parlors, business owners will not receive automatic approval to set up shop. The new ordinance states that anyone interested in opening a business featuring skill games must undergo a stringent application process.

The application process: hurdles for potential operators

Opening a skill game parlor in Meadville is no longer a simple task. The zoning ordinance lays out several steps that aspiring operators must follow before receiving approval:

Presenting their plans

Applicants must first present their business proposals and plans to the Zoning Hearing Board. This process involves detailing the intended location, business model, and measures to comply with city regulations.

Notifying neighbors

In order to promote community involvement, operators are required to notify residents in the surrounding area. This step gives neighbors an opportunity to provide feedback on the potential impact a new skill game parlor could have on the neighborhood. Concerns may include noise, traffic, and any perceived negative social effects.

Approval from zoning board appointees

After receiving feedback from the community, the final step is to face a vote by five appointed members of the Zoning Hearing Board. Only with their approval can an operator proceed with establishing a skill game parlor.

This comprehensive process is aimed at controlling the spread of skill game parlors and ensuring that the local community has a say in whether such establishments are welcomed in their neighborhoods.

Implications for the gaming industry

The move by Meadville's city council comes at a time when online casinos in Pennsylvania have been expressing concerns over skill games and their impact on the regulated gambling market. Online casino operators, who must adhere to strict regulations and tax structures, have long argued that skill games, which fall into a regulatory gray area, unfairly compete with traditional gambling venues without contributing to state revenues at the same level.

By restricting the spread of skill games, Meadville has become the first Pennsylvania city to directly address these concerns through zoning restrictions. The move is set to be welcomed by online casino owners, as it could serve as a model for other cities in the state grappling with similar issues.