Poker News

Byron Liggett

The Mayor and Hearing Officer of San Jose are trying to close down the city’s only two poker rooms, the Garden City Casino and Bay 101. What’s more, the officials are trying to do it without allowing the Clubs any opportunity to present their case to the City Council.

It’s No-Limit “Hold-up”. The Club’s opponents make up the rules and the casinos don’t even get to show their cards!

One of the new rules would require both card rooms to close for 4hrs, from 2am to 6am. One sixth of the operating day; that restriction alone reduces Club revenues almost 18%! What business could survive such a deep cut? It’s a mortal blow!

Both clubs filed suit because, in effect, the restriction would put them out of business. The Clubs sought an extension in order to have time to present their case. The Hearing Officer denied it.

The Clubs appealed to the Superior Court. The Court ordered the Hearing Officer to hold another hearing and to consider the severe impacts of his decision. The Court pointed to the devastating results that Bay 101 experienced two years ago when it made a good faith effort to comply with the ordinance.

The Hearing Officer reviewed the matter again as ordered. Not surprisingly, he again refused to grant the clubs an extension - even though he admitted the restrictions would likely force the closing of the card room operations in the city! Nevertheless, the officials are determined to shoot themselves in the foot.

Opening of the Garden City Pool Hall, July 1946

The two casinos contribute over $60 million a year to the community in payroll, services and goods purchased. They ante up over $10 million a year in taxes and license fees. The City has raked in almost $100 million dollars in 10 years. It’s a Big Game!

What’s more, Garden City employs more than 1,000 citizens. Now, it has had to spend over $4 million in legal expenses fighting for the right to continue to contribute jobs and revenue to the community. This doesn’t make sense or cents!

The Garden City Casino is a San Jose landmark. They were gambling with chips here long before anyone ever heard of Silicon Valley. It’s part of the history, character and spirit of San Jose. For 60 years it’s been a favorite place for cards and camaraderie.

Likewise, Bay 101 has become a nationally known, handsome gaming & dining center. Through tournaments and TV it’s brought visitors, celebrities and exciting, glamorous notoriety to San Jose.

Both San Jose card casinos are respectable, responsible, professional businesses. Each pays 13% of GROSS revenues and almost another million to cover the costs to the City for regulation and police supervision.

While the Next Generation is embracing poker, some in San Jose want to go the other way. The trial in Superior Court in the clubs’ suit against the doomsday restrictions is set for

Filed under: Poker News