In an interview yesterday, Sen. Juan M. Ayuyu, Ind.-Rota, said SNM Corp., which runs Rota Resort & Country Club, made the request after paying the $150,000 “investigation fee” required by the Rota gaming commission.
The hotel, which was on the verge of shutting down last month, told Rota leaders it is now working on bringing in charter flights from Asian countries, Ayuyu said.
The Rota gaming commission has issued Rota Resort a conditional license.
Ayuyu said the commission will have to review the applicant’s background which may require a trip to the investor’s country of origin.
He said SNM Corp. has investments in other countries so it is “necessary” for the commission to send a team to “investigate” and make sure the applicant’s businesses are legitimate and it has the financial capability to run a casino long-term.
Ayuyu said Rota lawmakers are committed to enhance tourism and will prioritize the island’s airport improvement project.
The Rota Treasure Island Casino located at Rota Hotel has been “temporarily closed” since March.
