Dubuque Contract Dispute

The Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque, Iowa, has canceled plans for its third Grandstand Under the Stars series this summer because of a contract dispute with the city.

Carrie Tedore, the casino’s director of public relations, said the city lease agreement for the event wasn’t coming together quick enough for the series. However, Tedore hasn’t ruled out the possibility for a similar entertainment series in the future.

Dubuque City Manager Mike Van Milligen said he met with Diamond Jo representatives February 15th and gave them a lease proposal package. According to Van Milligen, casino officials have not responded.

The unresolved lease proposals include parking and issues related to new state gambling regulations. Diamond Jo sublets from the Dubuque Racing association, who in turn leases its land from the city.

Last summer’s Grandstand series featured the likes of KC & The Sunshine Band, Taylor Dayne, Bobby Vinton, Little River Band, Sha Na Na, and America.