The measure would allow voters to decide on a change in the citycharter banning casino development within 1,500 feet of anyresidence, school, playground, church or similar neighborhoodproperty. If passed, it would effectively block plans fordevelopment of Foxwoods Casino Philadelphia on Columbus Boulevardand SugarHouse Casino on North Delaware Avenue. The PennsylvaniaGaming Control Board awarded those projects the two slots licensesdesignated for Philadelphia.

Mayor John Street could, but has not yet indicated he would,veto the council's decision. It would take 12 of the 17 councilmembers to override such a veto. Furthermore, the state legislaturecould overturn the council's decision. In a statement, Gov. EdRendell says, "There are fundamental constitutional questions aboutthe city council's actions that we expect will be addressed incourt proceedings."

A spokesman for the PGCB tells GlobeSt.com the board "isexploring a challenge to the city council vote and evaluating whatactions we can take and would take." Any challenge would be basedon the premise that the vote is "contrary" to the legislationpermitting slots parlors in the state.