The city Planning Commission, on a 5-0 vote, refused a request to include bingo parlors in the city's commercial zones.
The request came from a Bay Area theater company interested in setting up a charitable bingo hall at 220 Palm Ave., that would operate 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week.
Gregory Brennan, executive director of Network Theatre Company, said proceeds would be used to create and maintain a professional theater group in Auburn.
The company would offer a three-play production package in its first season, Brennan said in a May 12 letter to the city of Auburn.
Local charitable groups will be able to continue their bingo activities by applying for one-year licenses through the city manager and with Police Department approval.
Planning Commissioner Alan Young voiced the strongest concerns about a daily bingo operation, saying it might oust occasional bingo games at churches or meeting halls that raise money for local organizations.
"I don't want to see a bingo parlor in my community," Young said. "(People) can go to Thunder Valley. I look at bingo parlors as another venue for gaming."
Brennan told commissioners the bingo parlor would assist local groups in raising money for their causes.
– Art Campos
