Politics & Government
Harrah's Gives Council Cards for Casino Perks
The practice of the downtown gambling business giving Diamond Cards to council members, giving them access to VIP treatment, has been called into question.
Joliet City Council members have been receiving free "Diamond Cards" from Harrah's Casino, allowing them to take advantage of high-roller perks, for the last 20 years, according to a report broadcast by CBS2-TV/Channel 2.
Diamond Card perks include such things as access to exclusive lounges offering free food and discounts at restaurants and gift shops. It can be used at all 40 locations operated by Harrah's parent company, Caesar’s Entertainment Corp., based in Las Vegas, the report said.
It's not illegal, but can pose a conflict of interest in cases in which the council has to vote on something related to the downtown Joliet business, the Better Government Association told the station.
Find out what's happening in Jolietwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Mayor Tom Giarrante said he didn't agree.
“If they have done something wrong, I’m not going to hide it,” Giarrante told the station. “I’m not going to perjure myself or lie, I’m going to be honest with the Gaming Board.”
Find out what's happening in Jolietwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Five council members also told the station they had used their VIP cards. Councilman Larry Hug said he had not, and plans to return it.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
