A Shenandoah Valley casino may still be years away, but Winchester officials are taking early steps to position the city for the possibility.
Winchester City Council voted 7-2 in January to pass a resolution supporting the city’s economic development authority to work with state legislators and a future Virginia gaming commission to request a feasibility review for a casino, convention and entertainment complex.
If the study has favorable results and the General Assembly authorizes a license for a Winchester casino, the city would have up to 24 months to select an operator and hold a referendum.
EDA Executive Director Jeff Buettner says the earliest a casino referendum could likely be held is 2028.
