Controversy Stems From Video Lottery

VIENNA, West Virginia -- The Wood County Commission has called a special meeting to discuss whether it should allow a video lottery operator to open a business across the street from a Baptist Church.

The commission imposed a 90-day moratorium earlier this year on new video lottery retailers while it considered a proposed ordinance that would restrict where such establishments can locate. The moratorium, which expires this week, would prevent new video-lottery locations from opening within 1,000 feet of any church, school, playground, park, recreation area, residence, hotel, library or state building.

Video-lottery business owners have protested the proposed rule, saying it goes against state law.

The building across from the church is surrounded by Vienna city property but sits on land that is not within city limits. Vienna City Council members who oppose its opening last week expressed frustration at that fact.

"It just makes you sick when you're helpless," Mayor David C. Nohe has said.

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