The approval of a glitzy gambling hall by the Glendale City Council last week has done little to calm the divisive issue or a five-year legal battle over its fate that has cost tens of millions of dollars. And the fighting is not over yet, reports Peter Corbett for The Arizona Republic.
It might be long shot, but critics of the casino deal with the Tohono O’odham Nation are pursuing a referendum to give voters a chance to overturn the city council’s approval of an agreement with the tribe that will pay Glendale $26 million over 20 years.
In addition, City Councilman Gary Sherwood, who changed his position from opposing the casino to supporting it and provided the key vote for the deal, is being targeted for recall.
Critics complained to the councilthe West Valley casino at Loop 101 and Northern Avenue would lead to more gambling addiction, hurt existing Glendale businesses and violate a gaming compact that they say prohibits additional Valley casinos.
Sherwood and Mayor Jerry Weiers, who voted against the deal, said the casino vote cannot be subjected to a referendum because the action was administrative rather than legislative. State law precludes a referendum on an administrative action by a council.
City Attorney Michael Bailey said Monday it would be premature for him to offer an opinion on the referendum and whether it qualifies as administrative or legislative action. He will decide whether to allow the referendum if casino opponents turn in enough signatures on their petitions.
If the city attorney rejects the latest referendum effort, the group could file a lawsuit to get the measure on the ballot.
