Augusta Officials Reject Video Poker
AUGUSTA, GEORGIA -- July 7, 2000 – As reported by Associated Press: "Concerned about becoming a haven for South Carolina's outlawed video poker industry, Augusta-Richmond County commissioners have denied two applicants from obtaining arcade licenses.
"By an 8-1 vote, with one abstention, the commissioners on Wednesday denied a license to Barry Stewart for Regency Cafe after City Attorney Jim Wall said Stewart had not acquired a restaurant license.
"…Stewart applied for an arcade license with the city in early May, so it was obvious the main thrust of the business would be video poker, not food sales, Wall said.
"…Commissioners by a 9-0 vote with one abstention denied a license to J.B. Gordon for Diamond Redemption Center.
"Commissioners asked how Gordon planned to make 50 percent or more of his revenue from a source other than the machines when they and the Georgia Lottery were the only things that would be in the business..."