Oasis in Mesquite allowed to continue running reduced operations until Feb. 2

The Oasis in Mesquite can continue to run at reduced operations until Feb. 2 through an update to an existing bank agreement, according to a Tuesday filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Black Gaming closed the Oasis' table game operations, company-owned restaurants and nightclub on Dec. 19 because of financial requirements of a bank agreement that expired Jan. 15.

The company also reduced its slots operations from 750 machines to 144, and closed most of its 900-room hotel.

The move reduced the casino's staff by 340 workers.

The gaming company, which also owns the Virgin River and CasaBlanca in the rural town 80 miles north east of Las Vegas, will have to seek another update by Feb. 2 to continue to run the Oasis at reduced operations

Black Gaming officials are scheduled to appear before the Mesquite City Council on Feb. 10 to seek an extension of a permit to hold a non-restricted gaming license while most of its hotel rooms are closed.

Under city ordinances, the Oasis will lose its nonrestricted gaming license after 60 days if it has fewer than 400 rooms open. Additionally, Black Gaming is expected to ask for an extension of its liquor license, which would expire 90 days after closing its bars and nightclub.

Michael Bonner, attorney for Black Gaming and managing partner at Kummer Kaempfer Bonner Renshaw & Ferrario, said company officials have been meeting with city officials and state gaming regulators рto ensure that the gaming and liquor licenses held by the Oasis remain in place.с

While Black Gaming has reduced operations, Denny's and Starbucks continue to operate at the property.

Contact reporter Arnold M. Knightly at aknightly@reviewjournal.com or 702-477-3893.