The South Dakota Commission has granted approval for two licenses

The South Dakota Commission on Gaming has granted licenses to SGMSD, LLC, the new casino operator that is set to acquire the iconic Franklin Hotel and Silverado gambling complex located in Deadwood, South Dakota. The approval was given during a special teleconference meeting on Monday, with Jon Grant Lincoln, the CEO of Strategic Gaming Management, being approved as the key licensee, as reported by KELO.

Strategic Gaming Management, a Montana-based business led by Lincoln, also serves as a consultant for the California-based betting app ZenSports, which has previously obtained gaming licenses in Nevada to operate the Big Wheel Casino in Lovelock and The Book at Baldini’s in Reno in 2021. Strategic Gaming Management was established in 2009 for the acquisition of Baldini’s Casino, as stated in the agreement signed at the time.

Lincoln and Charlie Skinner, a partner in SGM based in Las Vegas and the president of Marker Trax, a company specializing in managing and issuing cashless funds for casino players, filed the necessary paperwork for SGMSD with the South Dakota Secretary of State office and received approval on January 4, 2023. According to the summary held by the South Dakota Commission, Lincoln owns 99% of SGMSD, while Skinner holds 1%, as reported by the cited source.

As part of the approval process, SGMSD is required to submit copies of all proposed gaming contracts to the commission’s executive secretary for review. The commission may approve, deny, or require changes to the contracts before the licensee is allowed to participate in gaming activities.

The historic Franklin Hotel and Silverado gambling complex is known for its live poker, blackjack, and a wide variety of slot machines, as well as dining options and 81 guest rooms, offering a unique and historical experience for its visitors.