West Tawakoni Declares Moratorium On New Game Rooms Until Dec. 31

Editor

No new game rooms in West Tawakoni — at least during a moratorium called Tuesday night by the city council.

The council voted unanimously to amend the game machine ordinance to include the moratorium that would expire Dec. 31.

The moratorium was designed to give the council time to consider the city’s policy regarding the machines and to make any changes desired.

City Administrator Cloy Richards said, "It looks like a very good ordinance to me."

He said about the only things that could be changed would be to add a distance requirement or to change the fees charged for permits.

Police Chief Jack Schultz said the issue was widespread. He said he had talked earlier that day with law enforcement officials in Kaufman who indicated game rooms were opening there.

City Attorney Charles Calkins said the moratorium could be imposed.

Councilwoman Carol Welch said, "Maybe it’s like the dogs. Maybe we need to start somewhere."

Mayor Protem Pete Yoho agreed with Welch and suggested that the council consider the moratorium.

Richards said he did not feel the city could write the amendment with the moratorium to exclude game rooms without an end date.

Welch anticipated problems with game room operators who were non-profits.

Former Mayor Bill Stausing who was in the audience confirmed that income from the machines was "a very large part" of the budget for the three service clubs in paying expenses like an $1,800 electric bill.

He said the clubs would be in trouble without the income.

When asked how they operated before the machines, Stausing answered other fundraisers and bingo.

The non-profit organizations receive 50 percent off its permit fees. The regular annual permit costs $250 per machine.

Other Business

• After a short closed executive session, the council voted unanimously to approve the new contract for Police Chief Jack Schultz.

The council also unanimously approved Schultz’ offer to settle accrued time for $6,000.

• A formality vote was approved to amend the order of election to include the unexpired term of Place 5.

• No action was taken on the request of Lisa Arnold for adjustment of a water bill because of a leak.

• The council approved Councilwoman Welch’s motion to "accept with regret" the letter of resignation of Mayor Stausing.

• A requirement of the state to act on the city’s investment policy was approved.

• All council members were present.