South Carolina Casino Boat Vote Postponed
SOUTH CAROLINA – As reported by the Myrtle Beach Sun News: "There will be no decision on the fate of casino boat gambling in Horry County for at least two more weeks, County Council decided Tuesday.
"The question of whether to charge fees to the floating casinos or ban them from the county will likely come up at the regular council meeting next month. A majority of members voted to put off a decision because Councilman Harold Worley, who represents Little River, home of the county's only two operations, was absent.
"Councilman John Boyd, one of four who opposed waiting, said the council has put off a decision for too long.
"…The county attorney asked the council on Friday to choose an option because the industry could sue and the county must budget for legal expenses.
"…Under state law, the county can charge the gambling operations 10 percent of each boarding ticket they sell or collect up to 5 percent of gross gambling proceeds, which includes all money wagered during the cruises, County Attorney John Weaver said.
"The county can ban the boats but must give operators five years' notice…"
2006-02-24
