The Town Council has approved an application to allow off-track pari-mutuel betting at the Tap House Bar and Grill in Fountain Hills.

The council voted 7-0 to approve the request, which came through Arizona Downs, a horse racing track in Prescott Valley.

Joe Jackson with Arizona Downs said the track he represents was formerly Yavapai Downs. He said they will begin seasonal operations on May 24 and continue to September, when the Phoenix track reopens for the winter months.

“This brings year-around racing back to Arizona and will give the industry in the state a real shot in the arm,” Jackson said.

He said the purses for the races depend a lot on off-track wagering due to a 50/50 split.

“We think Fountain Hills would be one of the better locations,” Jackson said.

Tap House owner, Milton Gabaldon, told the council his decision regarding the off-track betting was still somewhat tentative.

“I just took this over in October,” Gabaldon said. “I’m new to this and still learning the business I’m trying to build.”

He said he was approached by Arizona Downs and wants to see how his customers feel about it.

Councilman Alan Magazine suggested that council action was premature and asked for a continuance, but did not receive a second on that motion.

The council action is essentially a recommendation to the Arizona State Racing Commission, which would have the final say in issuing a permit.