BRIDGEPORT, Neb. — Bridgeport residents will have the opportunity to decide if keno funds will be available for community improvement projects.
Last week ballots were mailed to registered voters in Bridgeport, asking whether the city should or should not allow operation of a keno lottery. The request came from the owners of Bridgeport's new restaurant and bar, the Steel Grill 64.
Residents have until 5 p.m. Jan. 10 to return their ballots to the Morrill County Clerk's Office, either in person or by mail.
According to City Administrator Bradley Hanson, the last time keno was available in Bridgeport was about 10 years ago. A special election approving keno was held in 1995 but because of the lapse, the city is required to hold a special electing to reinstate legalized gambling.
Hanson explained that according to statute, proceeds from legalized gambling must be used for the betterment of the community. Hanson said the proceeds from keno funds could generate approximately $10,000 annually.
"Of course, that depends on the interest people have to play," Hanson said.
According to the resolution signed by Mayor J.W. Berg in November, the City of Bridgeport would use the funds generated from keno to assist with the city's volunteer fire department, volunteer ambulance service, Police Department and the Prairie Winds Community Center, all in equal portions. The funds for the fire department and ambulance service would be used for equipment maintenance and supplies only, while the Police Department would receive funds for equipment and training expenses. The community center's share would be used for operating expenses, including payroll.
Hanson said these expenses so far have been paid out of the city's general fund and some fundraisers by volunteers and members of the organizations.
Copyright ©2012 Omaha World-Herald®. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, displayed or redistributed for any purpose without permission from the Omaha World-Herald.
