New Racing Entertainment Centres -
Questions and Answers

What is involved in the process of applying for a new REC?

Applicants for a new REC facility licence must go through the AGLC’s 5-step REC licensing process.  

Who makes the decision to grant a REC licence?

Under the requirements of the Gaming and Liquor Act and Regulation all licensing decisions are made by the AGLC’s Board, which is independent of government. The mandate of the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC) is to ensure that any growth in gaming is carefully managed and controlled and meets Alberta’s high standards of integrity.

Does the AGLC Board take into account the potential impact of a new REC on a community?

In addition to being evaluated on a detailed business and marketing plan, an applicant must demonstrate to the AGLC that the proposal has taken into consideration factors that may impact the community and adjacent communities, such as:

• anticipated impact upon other existing or approved gaming activities in the community;
• a statement describing the current zoning or land use designation of the proposed location for the new facility and, if re-zoning is required by the community, the applicant’s consultation plan to ascertain surrounding property owners’ reactions and concerns;
• suitability of the proposed new facility or location including the impact on parking and traffic flow;
• proximity to public or community facilities, including schools, churches, etc.;
• an explanation of the measures to be taken to address problem gambling , for example, how gaming activities in the REC will be delivered in a socially responsible manner;
• estimated economic impact on the community, for example, number of new jobs created, impact on other businesses in the community, etc.; and
• impact on policing in the community.

Will the community (and surrounding communities) be allowed to provide input?

The Board of the AGLC will consider community support, or the lack thereof, as expressed through the municipal or band council and may conclude the process if in the Board’s view the council does not support the concept of a new REC facility in the community. If the council is silent and there is no demonstrated opposition to the concept of a new casino in the community, the Board at its discretion may decide to continue the application process.

What does the investigation portion of the process involve?

The AGLC conducts a through due diligence investigation into an applicant and any other key persons associated with the applicants.  The investigation occurs during the fourth step of the five-step licensing process.

The investigation helps to ensure criminal interests, or those who otherwise would be a detriment to the integrity or lawful conduct of gaming, are prevented from obtaining an REC licence.

If I want to provide my input to the Board on a new REC, how do I do that?

Letters may be sent to:
Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission
Attn: Chairperson of the Board
50 Corriveau Avenue
St. Albert, AB  T8N3T5