Mayfield Heights Extends Moratorium on Internet Cafes

City Council extended a moratorium on Internet cafe/sweepstakes devices, passed in 2010, for another year.

Council President Michael Ballistrea also referred the matter to council's legislative committee for review, but said he does not want any proposed legislation come up for a vote until there's a clear decision as to whether the devices are legal.

"I think that there are many cities waiting for the state to make a decision," Councilman Nino Monaco said.

Ballistrea said there were about inquiries from people considering Internet cafes in Mayfield Heights before the moratorium was enacted. He said the intent was to wait until the legality of these businesses was established before letting them into the city.

"I think the concern remains as to whether it does or does not violate Ohio Revised Code as it pertains to unlawful gambling," Ballistrea said. He said the hope is that the state attorney general will issue an opinion to provide guidance to cities wondering how to handle Internet cafes.

He added that there's also a concern about whether or not Internet cafes would be considered retail establishments before voicing his opinion as to the legality of these operations.

"I'm still of the opinion that these are some type of gambling establishments," Ballistrea said.