A gambling casino in Chicago: Good bet or gad bet?

BGA President & CEO Andy Shaw talked about the pros and cons of the proposal on May 9 with Chris Bury, co-host of “In the Loop,” a show on WYCC’s PBS Chicago.

The program, which is co-hosted by Barbara Pinto, airs on Thursday nights at 7 p.m. and is re-broadcast Sunday nights at 6:30 p.m.

“In the Loop” is a public affairs show that focuses on issues that concern Chicagoans.

The conversation between Andy and Chris also looked at a bill to expand gambling statewide.

Andy said the BGA isn’t opposed to the statewide gambling expansion or the Chicago casino as long as “the Illinois Gaming Board is empowered to keep the mob and other corrupt elements out.”

Andy added that “this overall bill will make us the Las Vegas of the Midwest” so regulation and oversight are critical, which means the Gaming Board has to keep a close eye on Mayor Rahm Emanuel and the City Council as the city casino plan is developed and carried out.

Watch the full interview below.