BOISE, Idaho (AP) – A racetrack in eastern Idaho faces the possible suspension of its simulcast license if it doesn’t soon receive approval from county officials.
According to audio asked for by The Associated Press through a public records request, Idaho Racing Commission met April 3 during a special meeting to discuss the validity of Sandy Downs Racing’s licenses. The licenses are required to operate simulcast gambling and slot-like betting machines.
During the special meeting, the commission unanimously agreed that the Idaho Falls race track has until April 17 to receive county approval or risk suspension. “I can’t stress how important this is that you get the letter,” said Paul Schneider, racing commissioner chairman.
Sandy Downs is one of three race tracks in the state that has installed lucrative instant racing machines. It’s the only racetrack in Idaho to operate instant racing machines off-site.
Idaho law requires that all simulcast and instant racing take place on racetrack grounds. But a racetrack may operate off-site if it gets permission from the county.
Questions surrounding the racetrack’s license surfaced earlier this legislative session while lawmakers debated legislation that would repeal roughly 250 instant racing betting machines.
Rep. Tom Loertstcher, R-Iona, in particular raised alarm that neither the commission nor Sandy Downs’ owners could provide official documentation that the county had given its permission to operate instant horse racing and simulcast away from the track. The only proof of approval provided was a letter dated Nov. 12, 2013, from the county commissioners saying they had “no issue” with the racetrack conducting business inside the city of Idaho Falls. Loertscher said the letter didn’t constitute an official approval.
Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter has since vetoed the contentious legislation, which became one of the most hotly contested debates during this year’s session. On April 3, racing commissioners agreed that the racetrack doesn’t have the statutory required approval from Bonneville County Commissioners.
“The political firestorm surrounding this issue is unlike anything I’ve ever seen,” said Stephanie Altig, deputy attorney for the racing commission.
As of Friday, Bonneville County commissioners had not met with Sandy Downs.
Copyright 2015 The Associated Press.
