OGALLALA, Neb. — The transfer of a racing license from Adams County to Keith County faces a delay of at least one month.
Hastings Exposition and Racing presented their proposal to the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission last Tuesday, aiming to relocate their license to Ogallala and collaborate with Elite Casinos to establish Lake Mac Casino, the Casino would also have a quarter horse race track.
However, the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission determined that Hastings Exposition and Racing lacked essential documentation necessary for approval.
One outstanding requirement is evidence of construction feasibility west of the Wal-Mart near the interstate.
Additionally, the commission stipulated that the race track must be constructed and inspected by Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commision officials before any license transfer can be considered.
Hastings Exposition and Racing has until June 28th now to furnish the required information. The commission plans to revisit the matter during its meeting on July 19th.
In a 5-2 vote, commissioners opted to postpone further deliberation until the upcoming session. Should the license transfer be authorized, HER anticipates hosting its inaugural race on Labor Day in 2025.
The Nebraska Legislature has already directed the Nebraska State Racing and Gaming Commission to conduct economic and social impact studies to determine eligible sites for new racetracks, which must be completed no later than January 1, 2025. The Ogallala City Council and Keith County Board of Commissioners provided exclusive support for this project.
Should the Nebraska State Racing and Gaming Commission elect to award an additional racetrack to Ogallala, the facility would include:
- Casino Floor with 650 slot machines, 20 table games, 6 poker tables, sportsbook
- Grand Stand and Racetrack with a 5/8 Mile Oval Track
- RV Parking for 120
- Restaurants to include fine dining, family dining, sports bar, and grab-and-go deli
- Full Service Spa & Salon
- High End Truck Stop with Parking for 100 Semi-Trucks