Petition Against Irving Casino Rezoning Proposal Gathers Support
Thousands have signed a petition against an Irving rezoning proposal designed to permit casino gaming in a new mixed-use entertainment district if legalized. The Change.org petition, titled “Stop the Rezoning of PUD 6 for ‘Destination Resort/Casino'”, urges local residents to act against the casino due to fears of rising crime and external influence on community governance.
As of Thursday afternoon, the petition had garnered over 2,600 signatures and continued to attract supporters ahead of a town hall meeting about the development. The petition states, “Rather than depending on a casino that targets our most vulnerable citizens, we should prioritize developments that genuinely benefit Irving, such as supporting small businesses, creating parks, and family-oriented attractions.”
Project Details
The proposed development spans 1,001 acres, incorporating the site of the former Texas Stadium and bordered by State Highway 183, Loop 12, and Spur 482. The project is envisioned as a high-intensity mixed-use area, comprising corporate, retail, and residential spaces, along with a “destination resort” inclusive of casino facilities, which has prompted strong objections from residents.
In 2023, a business linked to Las Vegas Sands Corp. purchased land in the vicinity prior to the acquisition of a controlling interest in the Dallas Mavericks by Las Vegas Sands stakeholder Miriam Adelson.
Community Concerns
Irving resident Clayton Draughon initiated the petition and expressed his opposition at a planning and zoning work session last week, questioning the urgency of the project. “Why the hurry? Texas hasn’t even legalized gambling yet; it’s still undecided. Why are we rushing to approve a gambling zoning designation?” he remarked.
The rezoning of PUD 6 was discussed at the Irving City Council’s work session on February 27. Council Member Luis Canosa expressed that residents should understand what regulations would exist if casino gambling is legalized in Texas before moving forward with the approval. He emphasized the need for transparency and citizen engagement regarding the project.
Town Hall and Lobbying Efforts
District 5 Council Member Mark Cronenwett will host a town hall on the rezoning proposal at 6 p.m. Friday at the Irving Convention Center, which will also be streamed live on the city’s YouTube channel. Cronenwett noted that many residents have expressed concerns about the proposal, and this meeting will be an opportunity for the community to interact directly with the developer.
Additionally, a text message claiming to have been funded by Las Vegas Sands Corp. circulated to some residents, urging them to support the rezoning. The message described the potential benefits of the casino on local employment and business growth.
Support for the Proposal
A contrasting Change.org petition titled “Approve the Rezoning of PUD 6 for a Destination Resort & New Home for the Mavericks” was launched on Wednesday and had approximately 30 signatures by noon Thursday. This petition, created by an unidentified resident, argues that the project would enhance local tourism and the economy, potentially serving as a new venue for the Dallas Mavericks.
Recently, Patrick Dumont, governor of the Dallas Mavericks, was appointed as the next chairman and CEO of Las Vegas Sands; however, it remains uncertain whether the Mavericks will relocate to Irving. Meanwhile, Dallas officials have expressed their commitment to keeping the team based in their city.
If you have any information to share, contact Megan Cardona at mcardona@kera.org.
