Casino gets preliminary nod to run gambling facility

Wednesday, Jan. 15, 1997 | 11:59 a.m.

The vote cleared the way for a state inspection cruise in the afternoon, and a final determination on the casino Thursday.

Officials with the Las Vegas-based company hope to open the Kansas City facility Thursday night, with a gala set to include country music singer Kenny Rogers.

With final approval, Station would become the largest of five casinos in the Kansas City metropolitan area and the second sporting twin boats.

Only three casinos in the country are larger. Station's 140,000 square feet are surpassed by the Foxwoods in Ledyard, Conn., the MGM Grand in Las Vegas and the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Conn.

The casino's 730,000-square-foot total also includes 12 restaurants, a jazz club, a turn-of-the-century theme and a large fountain.

The question of whether the market will bear such a giant addition got little attention during the public portion of today's suitability hearing.

In the company's presentation, Station executive vice president Scott Nielson said the project was "somewhat controversial in the financial community because of market capacity concerns."

The only question from the gaming commission came from Robert Clayton II, who asked about the mechanics of a minority equity program.

During a break in the hearing, Joseph Canfora, Station's president of midwest operations, said he was confident Station would not only compete in a tight market but draw new business.

"I think with our product we will increase the market because it's a unique product," Canfora said. "For the first time someone from Omaha will say 'Let's go to Kansas City.'

"I do think there will be some challenges for other operators," he said.

Station Casino reported revenues of $467 million and profits of $25 million in the year ended March 31, 1996. The company operates three casinos in Las Vegas and one in St. Charles.