Published on: January 12, 2026, 10:56h.
Updated on: January 12, 2026, 10:56h.
- A Nebraska casino seeks permanent police presence
- The casino will finance the police expenses
A casino located in Nebraska has proposed to its local city council the establishment of a permanent police presence on-site, with expenses to be covered by the casino itself.
In partnership with the Hall County Livestock Improvement Association, Iowa-based Elite Casino Resorts launched the Grand Island Casino Resort in April 2025. The $185 million facility, situated at the Fonner Park horse racetrack, aims to form a contract with the City of Grand Island for hiring police officers from the Grand Island Police Department for overtime shifts as part of their security team.
According to the city council’s agenda, Grand Island Police Officers have been providing occasional overtime security at the Grand Island Casino Resort in 2025. The newly crafted contract is intended to clarify expectations, manage reimbursements, and define liability and insurance commitments.
City Council and Mayor Roger Steele are set to finalize the contract terms through Resolution 2026-7 on Tuesday.
Casino to Foot Police Costs
The resolution anticipated to be approved during the City Council meeting stipulates that the Grand Island Casino Resort can employ police officers for overtime shifts as required and as available.
The casino will be charged and must reimburse the city for the overtime work performed by police officers acting as security. This resolution will be effective for five years. The City of Grand Island administration has recommended the approval to the Council and Steele.
The Grand Island Casino features 750 slot machines, 20 live dealer table games, a poker room, and an Elite Sportsbook. Amenities also include a seven-story hotel offering 162 rooms, an indoor/outdoor pool, four dining establishments and bars, a spa, fitness center, and a gift shop.
Grand Island is home to one of five casinos operating in Nebraska. Elite Casino Resorts also manages the Lake Mac Casino Resort & Racetrack, a temporary gaming venue in Ogallala. Elite, alongside local businessman Brian Becker, is in the process of constructing a permanent casino to complement the state’s only Quarter Horse racetrack.
Bomb Threat Incident
The request for permanent police officers at Grand Island Casino Resort follows a recent bomb threat incident targeting the venue.
On the previous day, Grand Island Police received a call at approximately 2:15 pm local time, alleging that multiple bombs had been planted within the casino. A swift investigation, supported by casino surveillance and law enforcement tools, concluded that the threat was a hoax.
Authorities indicated that the suspect used a third-party service to mask their identity. Casino operations remained smooth throughout the incident.
The Grand Island Police Department emphasized its commitment to addressing all threats seriously and will pursue inquiries into the call’s source. Individuals with information are encouraged to reach out to the police.