Bally's Corporation has made a $4 million payment to the city of Chicago as part of its Host Community Agreement, despite its ongoing opposition to the city's plan to introduce video gaming terminals (VGTs) beyond its $1.7 billion River West casino. The payments, divided into two installments of $2 million each, were completed on September 9, fulfilling Bally's annual community impact payment as stipulated in their 2022 agreement with the city.
Initially, Bally's had suggested it might withhold these payments due to the unresolved dispute over VGT placements. The ongoing conflict centers on the city’s authorization of VGTs in various venues, including bars and restaurants. For fiscal year 2026, the city expects to generate approximately $6.8 million from these gaming machines.
Furthermore, Bally's is in discussions with Rick Heidner of Gold Rush Gaming concerning a potential acquisition or partnership related to the VGTs, although no formal agreements have been reached as of yet.
