Casino by Vanshaw announces plans to move locations

“There’s been some growth issues, there’s been some issues with the ownership between the two companies, there’s been various things that have caused some waves you might say,” said Van Der Kooy. “But, all in all, the 25 years [has] been a great experience.”

In January, tensions between the Medicine Hat Lodge and the Casino by Vanshaw came to a head when the hotel locked them out.

The issues arose over a dispute about rent payments.

The two parties are at odds over who should be paying for the lounge space located within the Casino, but is operated by the Lodge.

In October, a decision was made in favour of the Lodge and the Casino was ordered to pay arrears.

Vanshaw has filed an appeal which is scheduled to be heard in July.

Stagewest Hospitality, that parent company of the Medicine Hat Lodge, told CHAT News that today was the first it has heard of the proposed relocation after a public notice was issued.

“We need to be a part of the AGLC process, so we will now get ourselves inserted in that process,” said Dan Pigeon, chief financial officer for Stagewest Hospitality.

When asked if the company will be looking into a contingency plan if the casino move is approved, Pigeon said “because we are just learning of this today, I have no comment,” but, he added they will continue to work with the casino.

“As far as we’re concerned, we still continue to work with our tenant there to resolve all of our outstanding issues and continue to have Vanshaw as a tenant of the Medicine Hat Lodge,” he explained.

Kevin Van Der Kooy said he believes this potential move will be the best for everyone.

He said they plan to lease the South Side Events Centre and will also take over Squires Pub giving them the ability to customize the dining options and experience for guests.

As for the employees at the casino and Squires Pub, Van Der Kooy said at this point he doesn’t anticipate there will be any job losses and they will likely be looking to hire additional workers.

Several charities and school groups rely on the casino to provide funding for community based programs and projects.

Van Der Kooy said that won’t change if and when they move locations.

“There’s 182 non-profit groups that share this facility and fundraise through this facility,” he said. “Over the 25 years we’ve been in business [we’ve] put back over $75 million into the community.”

There’s no word on when the move would happen as the casino is currently in step two of the three part application process through the AGLC, which requires approval from the community.

The AGLC will have final say on the application to relocate the casino and it must also meet all federal, provincial and municipal regulations.

by Leah Murray

Casino by Vanshaw announces plans to move locations

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