Residents of Chesapeake Beach in Maryland have once again made their voices heard loud and clear when it comes to the issue of expanding gambling in their town. During the recent 2024 election, voters overwhelmingly rejected a ballot question that sought to gauge public support for introducing additional electronic bingo machines, casino slots, and table gaming venues in Chesapeake Beach.
Out of the 1,684 votes cast on this local ballot measure, a significant majority of 1,285 votes, amounting to over 76%, were against the proposed gaming expansion. This outcome marks the second time in four years that residents of Chesapeake Beach have opposed efforts to bring live dealer table games and traditional Las Vegas-style slots to their town.
Chesapeake Beach has a history intertwined with gambling, with businesses in the past offering slot machines to guests, earning the town the nickname “Little Nevada.” More recently, local establishments with liquor licenses have installed slot-like electronic gaming machines. A crucial legal ruling in 2001 provided the basis for the operation of these controversial machines in the town.
While Maryland state lawmakers have authorized commercial casinos with Las Vegas-style slots and table games in certain areas, Chesapeake Beach has primarily been home to electronic gaming machines in restaurants and bars along the bay. The Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort, Traders Restaurant, and Abner’s Crabhouse are among the establishments offering electronic gaming options.
In the recent mayoral election, Bruce Wahl emerged as the winner over Councilwoman Valerie Beaudin. As the newly elected mayor of Chesapeake Beach, Wahl will play a key role in representing the interests of his constituents. Given the strong opposition to gaming expansion in the town, it is unlikely that Mayor Wahl will seek to introduce legislation to allow for Las Vegas-style gaming in Chesapeake Beach.
With the residents’ resounding rejection of the gaming expansion proposal, the future of gambling in Chesapeake Beach remains a topic of contention. As the town continues to navigate its relationship with gambling and gaming machines, the decisions made by local leaders will shape the community’s identity and economic landscape moving forward.
