Jackson County Times

Top Story News

Friday, January 8, 2010

Conflict At Country Crossing

Governor Riley of Alabama orders end to gambling at new facility By Sid Riley

Major powers within the State of Alabama are in conflict over the legality of video bingo gambling which is the foundation of the new Country Crossing attraction located just across the state line in Alabama on Highway 231. The facility has only been open for a few weeks, and there are rumors of huge windfall gains in tax revenue for the month of December for Houston County as a result of this new attraction. Approximately $2,000,000 has been paid to the county for permits, including permitting to operate the machines in the casino.

All of this seemed promising and wonderful as huge crowds appeared nightly at the facility to be entertained, to dine, to spend the night, …….and to gamble. Then, in the pre-dawn darkness of Tuesday night, a raid was ordered by the Governor to close the casino. A Houston County District Judge apparently approved execution of a search warrant for the Governor’s ABC agents to raid the attraction. However, their plan was thwarted when Circuit Judge P. B. McLaughlin issued a temporary restraining order which was delivered to the 150 troopers and ABC agents who were poised to execute the raid. This will prevent any action from occurring for fourteen days.

So things are currently in a state of limbo as these powerful forces engage in legal combat. Meanwhile, some 1500 jobs, and millions of dollars in investments hang in the balance. A hearing has been scheduled for January 20. Country Crossing and local authorities plan a news conference this afternoon (Wednesday) to further detail what is transpiring.

No comments:

Post a Comment