Elite Casino Resorts just closed a deal that CEO Dan Kehl calls “coming home.” The company acquired all assets and operations of Great River Entertainment, including Catfish Bend Casino and FunCity Resort in Burlington, Iowa.
The Kehl family owns the majority stake in Elite Casino Resorts. They’ve got deep roots in Burlington dating back to Iowa’s riverboat gaming era.
Dan Kehl moved his young family to Fort Madison back in 1994 when Catfish Bend first opened. Now his sons are part of the family business, making this acquisition feel like a real homecoming.
The properties were previously run by Randy Winegard and Gary Hoyer, who Kehl praised as “great leaders for Catfish Bend and the community.”
Why This Deal Makes Perfect Sense
The Kehl family originally helped launch casino gaming in Burlington during Iowa’s riverboat days before selling their assets to Randy Winegard. So they’re basically buying back what they once built.
“Burlington and all of Southeast Iowa have always been close to our hearts,” Kehl explained. The family connection runs deep here.
Elite Casino Resorts was looking to expand their already impressive portfolio. They currently operate Riverside Casino & Golf Resort, Rhythm City Casino Resort, Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort, Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort, Grand Island Casino Resort and Lake Mac Casino Resort and Racetrack.
Adding these Burlington properties gives them a stronger foothold in Southeast Iowa.
What Elite Casino Gets in This Deal
Catfish Bend Casino and FunCity Resort pack a lot into 30,000 square feet of gaming space. We’re talking 600+ slot machines, 18 table games, poker, a sportsbook and a high-limit room.
But FunCity Resort isn’t just about gambling. The entertainment complex includes bowling alleys, indoor go-karts, arcade zones and a soft play area for families.
All current team members at both facilities get to keep their jobs throughout the transition. That’s good news for local employment in Burlington.
The properties serve Iowa residents who want gaming and entertainment options close to home.
How This Changes Elite’s Regional Strategy
This acquisition strengthens Elite Casino Resorts’ position across Iowa and surrounding states. They now have seven properties spanning multiple markets.
Kehl talked about “building toward an exciting future of growth, investment and community partnerships.” That suggests more expansion plans ahead.
The company’s focus on maintaining the legacy built by Winegard and Hoyer shows they understand local relationships matter in the casino business.
For Burlington, it means the properties stay under experienced gaming operators who know the market. The Kehl family’s history there should help with community acceptance and future development plans.
This deal positions Elite Casino Resorts as a major regional player with properties strategically placed across the Midwest gaming corridor.
