In Illinois, where the state’s gambling market has been growing slowly but steadily over the past few years, an exciting proposal is taking shape. As the Illinois gaming market continues to expand, businesses are exploring innovative ways to enhance the entertainment experience.
The latest plan on the table involves introducing slot machines at public golf resorts, creating a unique blend of outdoor recreation and indoor excitement. The Steeple Chase Golf located in the village of Mundelein is looking to take advantage of the gambling boom in Illinois by introducing betting machines in its clubhouse.
What we cover
Why slot machines in the golf resort in the first place?
The idea of adding slots to a golfing establishment might raise a few eyebrows, but the club’s decision is rooted in the desire to offer its customers a diverse range of entertainment options. Indeed, golf resorts are characterized by leisure and relaxation, but these resorts are not just about golf these days.
Today’s golf resorts are evolving into comprehensive leisure destinations. Integrating slot machines into the mix could amplify the overall experience. Imagine enjoying the freedom of taking a swing on the course, and then trying your luck on the slots – it’s a dynamic combination designed to cater to different interests.
By integrating slot machines into the mix, these resorts aim to cater to a broader audience. Beyond the obvious entertainment factor, incorporating slot machines into golf resorts could bring several benefits.
Increased foot traffic is one. Avid slot players might be drawn to the prospect of combining their love for gaming with a day out on the golf course. This infusion of visitors is expected to contribute to the local economy and support the sustainability of these resorts.
Plus, it’s not just about attracting seasoned punters to the golf resort. Families and groups looking for a varied experience can find something for everyone – golf for some, slots for others, and perhaps a communal space to enjoy both. It’s an opportunity for golf resorts to position themselves as all-inclusive hubs of recreation.
In particular, Steeple Chase has plans to introduce 3 slot machines within its clubhouse. The machines would be stored in a secure room, which would be the best way to keep minors away from gambling. To access the slot game area, customers would have to scan their IDs to confirm their legal age. In addition to the slot machines, the club also intends to add 2 golf simulators.
But the approval process to get slots in this golf resort has not been easy. As with any innovative proposal in many areas, not just Illinois, community perspectives play a crucial role. Residents and authorities continue to weigh in on the potential impact of introducing slot machines at public golf resorts such as the Steeple Chase Golf Club.
Executive Director Ron Salski’s pitch to the Mundelein Board of Trustees, advocating for the installation of slot machines and golf simulators at the clubhouse, stated that the new additions had the potential to generate an annual revenue ranging from $40,000 to $60,000. Notably, this projection does not account for the additional influx of new golfing customers attracted by the allure of these gaming amenities.
According to Executive Director Ron Salski, adding the new gambling features would also enable the golf club to maintain competitive prices. Please note that if this proposal were approved, Steeple Chase would be the first gold clubhouse in the park district to add these gambling machines. It should be noted, however, that businesses and gamblers in the Mundelein area are already familiar with these options.
A board divided on the final decision
At present, 16 bars and restaurants in the village offer a total of 89 licensed slot machine-style games. The already large presence of these machines in the region forms the backdrop against which the golf club’s proposal is being considered. For the machines to be added to the club, the heart of the matter lies in the viewpoints of 6 trustees on the village board.
The board already has a divided outlook on the machines with 4 of the trustees expressing a willingness to approve the proposal. However, one among them conveys lukewarm enthusiasm, while the remaining two trustees firmly oppose the introduction of gambling machines at Steeple Chase.
These differences have set the stage for a nuanced decision-making process. Thankfully though, the success of the 89 gambling machines currently available in Mundelein has provided a compelling financial foundation and case for the Steeple Chase proposal. A massive $51.6 million has already been wagered on these machines in 2023 resulting in nearly $1.3 million for the state and $218,597 for the village.
The financial allure of expanding gambling options in the golf course thus becomes evident, prompting deeper considerations about the village’s economic landscape. Despite the spirited discussions, no concrete decision date has been reported. The uncertainty surrounding the timeline adds an element of anticipation to the unfolding narrative, as the village grapples with the implications of ushering in a new era at the intersection of golf and gambling.
Although the lottery remains Illinois’ largest source of betting profits, it should be noted that video gambling terminals in bars, restaurants, stores, as well as casinos have been challenging this top spot. The state’s tax collections from gambling rose to a record of close to $2 billion last year. Video gaming today represents 41% of betting revenue while the lottery leads with nearly 44%.
Final Thoughts
As the debate over slot machines at Steeple Chase Golf Club evolves, Mundelein finds itself at a crossroads — balancing economic prospects with community sentiments. The potential economic benefits, underscored by successful precedents in the village, create a compelling case for the integration of gambling amenities. However, the divergent views within the village board highlight the need for a nuanced decision that weighs financial gains against the broader fabric of community life.
While economic gains are a focal point, the potential community impact extends beyond revenue figures. Steeple Chase emphasizes the attraction of new customers, potentially revitalizing the golfing experience. Exploring the balance between financial success and the social fabric of Mundelein reveals the interconnected nature of commercial decisions and community well-being.
