Legalized gambling in bars and restaurants is coming to Springfield.
Aldermen voted 7-2 in favor of permitting video gaming terminals at local liquor establishments that purchase a state and city license.
Only Ward 2’s Gail Simpson and Ward 7’s Joe McMenamin voted against the proposal, despite testimony from opponents who warned that increased gambling will lead to more social problems.
Ward 5 Alderman Sam Cahnman voted “present.”
The machines could begin showing up locally within weeks, as soon as the state gets its centralized computer system for video gaming up and running.
