Decatur Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe sees value in allowing the city to add a casino
Decatur Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe is working to rally support behind a proposed racino project she believes could boost the city’s economy and help revive Illinois’ struggling horse racing industry. The plan calls for a privately funded complex combining a horse track, casino gaming, lodging, retail, and sports facilities. Supporters say the project could bring around 300 full-time jobs and generate new tax revenue for local services.
The racino would sit on roughly 200 acres at the northwest corner of U.S. 36 and Wyckles Road. Mayor Moore Wolfe said the development could attract visitors and provide much-needed income for pension obligations and other city expenses. She described the facility as a major opportunity for Decatur, arguing that the community needs new attractions to stay competitive.
Not everyone is on board. Decatur already has one of the highest numbers of video gambling terminals in Illinois, many located in small “storefront casino” establishments. Those operators have expressed opposition, worried that a larger racino could cut into their profits. Moore Wolfe acknowledged their concerns but noted that gaming was originally allowed to support bars and restaurants, not independent gaming lounges.
The racino proposal has cleared one hurdle: the Illinois Senate approved legislation that would authorize the project while also encouraging racino development elsewhere in the state. The bill has not yet passed the Illinois House, meaning the project remains on hold until lawmakers revisit the measure, likely during the spring session.
Illinois horse racing has faced steep decline in recent years, with only two racetracks still operating: Hawthorne Park near Chicago and FanDuel Horse Racing in Collinsville. Many breeders and racing businesses have shifted to states offering stronger incentives. Moore Wolfe said the Decatur racino could help bring stability back to the industry and restore some of what has been lost.
