In its eight year history, Wild Rose Casino and Resort in Jefferson is having its best stretch ever most recently.

General Manager Travis Dvorak tells Raccoon Valley Radio the casino has had its best five months ever, starting back in February/March. He describes what he initially thought the trend was because of extra federal stimulus money, but quickly discovered that wasn’t the main reason for the record setting revenues.

“I think what we found out is there wasn’t a lot to do and people were ready to get out. COVID took the stress on all of us, I think we all got to the point that we wanted to get out, but there was not a lot of places to go, so they came to our place. And then they just kept coming and I think it’s because people may be discovered or rediscovered what Wild Rose has to offer.”

Other factors Dvorak believes that have contributed to the success of the casino is the raising corn and soybeans prices, along with not mandating masks inside the casino. He reminds everyone about the vote of whether or not the casino stays in Greene County. The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission requires another vote eight years after the initial vote for a gaming facility is approved in the host county. 

Dvorak talks about another aspect he believes to be very important for him and Wild Rose.

“The big thing about us is we need to be part of the community. We’re not just some business off to the side, north of town, we need to be part of this community. We do our best to donate time, money and effort. As you know the state says we have to give three-percent (of the adjusted gross revenue) to the community, we give five-percent. And Grow Greene County has really put money to all sorts of places, a lot of good need.”

Eight years ago, Greene County voters approved a casino by over 75-percent, which is the highest percentage for an initial vote for a casino in IRGC history. The second and final vote that must be done eight years later just has to pass with a simple majority of 50-percent plus one. The vote will be held on Election Day on November 2nd.