The operators of the Argosy Riverboat Casino in Sioux City have taken more court action against the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission over the operation of the casino. The petition filed in Polk County District Court regards the refusal of the state commission to extend the operating agreement between Penn National Gaming and Missouri River Historical Development (MRHD) through March 31st of 2015.
The petition calls for a judicial review of the commission’s decision to limit the extension to March 31st of 2013. Penn Gaming has refused to agree to the 2013 date and has been given until the commission’s meeting August 23rd to sign the extension.
MRHD, the local non-profit license holder, has not responded to the latest action. The Racing and Gaming Commission has opened the bidding process for a new land-based casino in Woodbury County to replace the riverboat casino.
By Woody Gottburg, KSCJ, Sioux City