DeKALB | The City Council reviewed the ordinance on gaming devices within the city on Monday night.

Citizens opposing and in favor of the ordinance were given the opportunity to voice their opinions in front of the council.

“Those who would profit from gamblers’ losses will not tell you the harms of gambling, which include addiction, bankruptcies, crime, corruption, divorces, embezzlements and suicides, often called the ‘ABC’s of gambling,’” said Kathy Gilroy of Villa Park.

DeKalb Mayor Kris Povlsen added to the discussion of the impact gaming machines could have on people was DeKalb.

“I’m concerned over the social cost that video gaming would have on the city,” said Mayor Povlsen. “I think it’s a very serious issue and should be looked into further.”

The city has found it difficult to conduct research on whether there is a correlational or a causal relationship between authorizing video gaming and potential increases in crime or habitual behavior due to a variety of factors.

“One of the issues is there isn’t a great deal of information available on the gaming habits of communities right now,” said Dean Frieders, DeKalb City Attorney.

Those who are in favor of gaming say gaming machines could give the city’s economy a boost.

“Gaming would help the city of DeKalb with extra revenue,” said Earl Sullivan of DeKalb. “Other towns have already added machines and have seen benefits from it. I think more people would stay in DeKalb and spend money in the city if machines were added.”

Mayor Povlsen has recommended to put the issue of gaming and a review of the ordinance to a vote sometime in November.

Eric Hicks was also named DeKalb Fire Chief to be effective immediately.