SORRENTO – Sorrento is open for video bingo.

The town council unanimously adopted an ordinance Tuesday allowing video bingo to be played during sessions of charitable call bingo within the town limits.

Portions of the money generated during six-hour periods of gambling, which can potentially operate on a 24/7 basis, are divided between charities who run call bingo games, the company operating the video parlor and the town.

Councilman Larry Lee introduced the motion to adopt the ordinance at the council’s regular meeting, with  Councilman Edwin Pezant seconding.

Mayor Brenda Melancon said the ordinance would become effective immediately upon publication in the official town journal, the Gonzales Weekly Citizen.

Terms of the ordinance call for Sorrento to receive from the video hall operator 10 percent of the net winnings up to $50,000, and 15 percent of winnings totaling more than $50,000.

The fee amounts were suggested by Councilman Randy Anny.

Charities will pay $35 for a call bingo application in the parlor, and the operator of the parlor will pay a $250 fee, plus $10 per machine.

The ordinance requires that parlors be located no closer than 300 feet from residences, churches and schools, other than post secondary schools such as River Parishes Community College.

The ordinance does not address the issue of alcohol sales, which under state law is not allowed  closer than 300 feet from residences, churches and schools, other than post secondary schools. 

In an unrelated matter, Melancon advised the council that Allied Waste, the town garbage collector, will merge with Republic Services, Inc., a commercial, industrial, municipal and residential garbage collector with locations in 21 states.

The two firms announced a definitive merger agreement June 23. Melancon said she had been advised to expect a high increase in the town’s waste contract due to the high price of gasoline.

In another matter, the council agreed to purchase a 10,000 Btu air-conditioner and a heating unit for the town maintenance department at cost of up to $1,000.