Controversial gaming board member resigns

CHICAGO -- An Illinois Gaming Board member whose appointment two years ago was questioned because of his Springfield lobbying ties resigned Wednesday.

Ira Rogal, a lobbyist who represents big-name corporate clients at the Statehouse, submitted his resignation to the board that oversees the state's riverboat casino industry, said Abby Ottenhoff, spokeswoman for Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

"My term as a Board member expires June 30. Due to my travel schedule, I will be unable to be available for meetings and to devote sufficient time to the Board," Rogal wrote in his resignation letter. "Therefore, I am resigning from the Board today."

Rogal was appointed by former Gov. George Ryan in April 2001 to fill a Gaming Board vacancy reserved for a certified public accountant.

Rogal faced criticism about his lobbying business after Ryan announced Rogal's appointment. Some gambling opponents questioned whether the former governor was trying to dilute a board that has become known for tough decisions -- including denying a license for a riverboat casino in Rosemont that lawmakers had considered a done deal.

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