As Missouri regulators begin accepting applications for the lone casino license available in the state, the city of Cape Girardeau hits a stumbling block.
Cape Girardeau was one of four areas that are currently seeking approval to develop a casino; however a petition circulated by a group seeking a voter referendum asking if the city still backs a riverboat casino has forced the issue to a vote.
According to the County Clerk, the Quality of Life in Cape Girardeau group collected over 3,000 signatures from registered voters that meet the guidelines to propose the question on the November 2 ballot.
Cape Girardeau approved gambling in 1993 but was not able to obtain a developer or license and will now be delayed in another attempt to secure additional revenue for the city.
Isle of Capri Casinos and St. Louis Capital Partners LLC both hope to win the city’s endorsement, however only one will be backed by city officials before the Missouri Gaming Commission.
If the casino is vetoed, Cape Girardeau will have to withdrawal from the process.






