Regulators approve sale of Council Bluffs dog track and casino

The State Racing and Gaming Commission today approved the sale of the Bluffs Run Dog Track and Harvey’s Casino in Council Bluffs to a Nevada company. Harrah’s 625-million dollar stock purchase was approved on the condition the company passes a routine security check by the state. The commission’s chairman, though, questioned whether the dog track’s operations will change.Harrah’s attorney Loraine May told the commission not to worry, the corporate structure will stay the same.Current Bluffs Run General Manager Vern Welch will stay on with Harrah’s, and the company is evaluating all other positions within the company. Regulators also questioned whether a large company like Harrah’s would follow state regulations requiring them to seek out Iowa vendors for services. May says this may be a chance for vendors to move into Iowa to provide some services.The leader of the non-profit organization that owns the license for the casino and dog track gave full support to the sale today. Iowa West Foundation Executive Director Tony Payne says the foundation made the decision after meeting several times with Harrah’s officials. He says Harrah’s could possible elevate the performance of the track and casino, if that’s possible.The sale of the dog track and casino could be final in July.