Officials in Danville, Virginia said they plan to hire a lobbyist to represent the city’s interests regarding casino legislation. City Manager Ken Larking said, “There needs to be advocating on Danville’s behalf as this legislation moves forward.” Danville Mayor Alonzo Jones added, “This is the first time that a proposal has come to our city like this and we want to make sure it’s done the right way. That person would be working for us and making sure we get the information we need.”
Danville currently has a lobbyist in Richmond, attorney and former state Delegate Whitt Clement, who represents the city on state funding and other legislation. He’s paid $50,000 annually.
In addition, state Del. Danny Marshall said a casino study will be undertaken. He believes Danville should hire a lobbyist “to make sure its ideas get heard at the study. If you are not at the table, then you may be on the menu,” he quipped.
Larking noted the Virginia Municipal League and Virginia First Cities, a group representing the state’s independent cities, also represent the city in various endeavors. Larking said he’s not sure how much hiring a lobbyist would cost but said the city’s budget should be able to cover the expense. If not, he’ll ask the Danville city council for funding.
A measure that would allow voters to determine if they want a casino in Danville recently passed the state Senate in a 28-12 vote. Earlier, the state Senate Finance Committee voted 12-4 to approve gaming legislation that included a study, a move that could delay referendum on casino gambling until next year. Backers of the proposed $250 million Bristol Resort and Casino at the former Bristol Mall had hoped a vote could be held this November.
