Mayor Brandon Johnson says his administration is closely watching the financial drama surrounding Bally’s and its plans for a permanent casino in the West Loop. He acknowledges he may need to step in at some point.
Bally’s chairman Soo Kim is working to raise a reported $800 million to build Chicago’s first casino resort complex. In a disputed move, he’s launched a takeover bid that, some investors say, might jeopardize the venture.
Mayor Johnson, this week, reminded reporters the gaming arrangements were crafted under Lori Lightfoot.
“It’s another situation that I inherited,” Johnson said. “This is yet an evolving dynamic again in Chicago, and, look, the respective partners and conversations are being had.”
