Irving City Council Approves Resort Zoning, Rejects Casino

The Irving City Council voted 6-3 to approve a revised zoning ordinance for a proposed resort by Las Vegas Sands Corp., which notably excluded plans for a casino following significant public opposition. The decision came after a lengthy meeting where residents expressed concerns about the potential negative impacts of a casino, such as increased crime and gambling addiction. Many attendees viewed the removal of the casino component as a victory, with over 170 residents signing up to speak against it. Las Vegas Sands acknowledged the backlash and opted to focus on developing a resort hotel and possibly an arena, but no construction is expected for several years. Local leaders emphasized that the casino's presence did not align with the community's values, leading to this significant change in plans. The project’s future will depend on continued community engagement and potential shifts in state gaming regulations.