Martinsville City Council met on October 8 to discuss plans for a potential amphitheater and hear a proposal for a casino in the city. The brief meeting featured two main presentations, with one moving forward to a vote during the regular session.
The Harvest Foundation committed to a $25,000 matching grant for a feasibility study to determine the appropriate size for an outdoor amphitheater. The venue would be Martinsville’s only entertainment space since the Rives Theatre burned down.
“Honestly, right now, we don’t have an indoor venue either,” Council Member Tammy Pearson said. The discussion covered the potential for both free and ticketed events, with Roanoke’s amphitheater cited as an example.
“Sometimes it’s free, sometimes it’s not,” said Council Member Kathy Lawson. The study will also assess what is needed to make the project sustainable.
In addition to the amphitheater discussion, Mark Henderson, representing American Amusement, pitched a casino project to the council. Henderson described a vision for a “skilled game room” that would partner with the city and generate revenue.
“Our recommendation is for the city of Martinsville to enter a partnership,” Henderson said. The game room would offer a 50% tax directly to the city, and Henderson emphasized the potential for increased tourism and business revenue.
“We want to make this a money generator that can give back to the community,” Henderson added. He noted that many residents already travel to nearby counties to gamble and argued that a casino in Martinsville would provide a safer, local option.
With businesses located in Kannapolis and Charlotte N.C., Henderson also addressed concerns about the social impacts of casinos, assuring the council that it would comply with safety, noise, traffic management, security, and zoning regulations. He suggested local restaurants, like Kornna Kitchen, could cater, and highlighted entertainment options featuring local talent.
Lawson raised questions about a state ban on certain gaming machines. Henderson responded by explaining that Martinsville would fall within the state’s allowed number of casinos. He also proposed potential locations for the casino, including a former chicken restaurant near the police department and the BB&T building, though no specific plans were confirmed.
The council did not take immediate action on the casino proposal. Mayor LC Jones reminded attendees that the city lacks a casino ordinance, and any further movement would require legal guidance. Jones noted that normal skill games previously located in store fronts have been removed from Martinsville.
