× Thanks for reading! Log in to continue. Enjoy more articles by logging in or creating a free account. No credit card required. Log in Sign up {{featured_button_text}}

BRISTOL, Va. — Developers of the proposed Bristol Resort and Casino have contributed more than $300,000 to the various campaigns in the upcoming Virginia legislative elections through a new political action committee.

The casino project is a joint effort between Jim McGlothlin, president of The United Co. and Clyde Stacy, CEO of Par Ventures — both of Bristol, Virginia. Collectively they have contributed $550,000 to Betting on Virginia Jobs, a Richmond political action committee, according to the Virginia Public Access Project.

Each contributed $50,000 back in April to establish the committee. Since then, the United Co. donated $150,000 on Aug. 15 and $75,000 on Sept. 30. Stacy donated $50,000 on Aug. 16, and Par Ventures contributed $100,000 on Aug. 15. Stacy contributed an additional $75,000 on Oct. 1, VPAP.org records show.

Last year the General Assembly approved legislation that could pave the way for commercial casino operations in three economically challenged cities — Bristol, Danville and Norfolk — if approved by voter referendums. The process is currently on hold pending completion of a study by the Joint Legislative Audit Review Commission, and the legislation is subject to ratification during the 2020 General Assembly.