The November 3rd General Election ballot included an advisory question asking Lombard residents whether video gaming should be allowed within the Village of Lombard. The results showed that 22,814 Lombardians voted on the issue, with 53% (11,957) voting to allow video gaming in Lombard, and 48% (10,857) voting against video gaming.
The non-binding, advisory referendum question results will serve as a tool for discussion for the Village Board as they make their final decision of whether or not to allow video gaming in Lombard beyond the trial period. The Village Board is not bound to the November 3rd voting results.
The Village ordinance that currently permits video gaming in Lombard on a trial basis, was approved on December 5, 2019 and provides that video gaming within the Village will automatically terminate on December 31, 2020, absent further action by the Village Board. At the upcoming Board of Trustees Meeting on December 3, 2020, the Village Board will review and consider the continuation of video gaming in Lombard and an ordinance to remove the December 31st sunset clause. The topic will be placed on items for separate action to allow for public comment and discussion by the Village Board.
While Illinois COVID-19 restrictions are anticipated to limit in-person public attendance for the December 3rd meeting, which will take place at 7 p.m. over a virtual meeting platform, opportunities for public viewing and participation will be made available. Further updates on the meeting and opportunities for viewing and participation will be shared at www.villageoflombard.org/videogaming. If you wish to share your preliminary opinions on the matter, please email videogaming@villageoflombard.org.