REC Expansions and Relocations -
Questions and Answers

What is considered an expansion?

An expansion means the significant physical expansion of the gaming area in a REC as determined by the Board. It may include an expansion of the building envelope (the outer perimeter of the building).

What is considered a relocation?

A relocation can occur within or outside the current perimeter of the REC.  The AGLC is responsible for overseeing all relocations within the perimeter of the existing race track or property.

However, a relocation of an existing REC outside the perimeter of the existing race track or property will result in the termination of the current licence.  In this case, the applicant must apply for an new licence.  Please refer to the New Facilities section for additional information.

What is the process for a REC expansion or relocation?

Applicants requesting an expansion or relocation must go through the AGLC’s 2-step REC expansion or relocation process.

Who makes the decision to approve a REC expansion or relocation?

Under the requirements of the Gaming and Liquor Act and Regulation, all expansion and relocation decisions are made by the AGLC’s Board, which is independent of government. The mandate of the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC) is to ensure that any growth in gaming is carefully managed and controlled and meets Alberta’s high standards of integrity.

Does the AGLC Board take into account the potential impact of a REC expansion or relocation on a community?

The applicant must demonstrate to the Commission that the REC proposal has taken into consideration factors that may impact the community and adjacent communities including, but not limited to the following:

• anticipated impact of the expansion upon other existing gaming activities in the community;
• an explanation of the measures to be taken to address problem gambling, for example, how gaming activities in the REC will be delivered in a socially responsible manner;
• estimated economic impact on the community, for example, number of new jobs created, impact on other businesses in the community, etc.;
• impact on policing in the community; and
• impact on parking and traffic flow.

Will the community (and surrounding communities) be allowed to provide input?

The Board of the AGLC must consider objections to a proposed REC expansion or relocation.  The Board may refuse a proposed expansion or relocation at any time throughout the process if it’s of the view that residents do not support the expansion of a REC facility licence in their community.

If I want to provide my input to the Board on a proposed REC expansion or major relocation, how do I do that?

Letters may be sent to:
Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission
Attn: Chairperson of the Board
50 Corriveau Avenue
St. Albert, AB  T8N3T5