Montevideo reassigns Casino manager amid imminent service transfer to Economy Ministry

The Intendancy of Montevideo (IMM) has reassigned Lorena Infante, the manager of Casinos, to the position of manager of Purchases. This move comes as the Municipal Casino is set to be transferred to the National Directorate of Casinos within the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF).

The decision, signed by Mayor Mario Bergara and Secretary General Viviana Repetto, is a direct response to the "imminent transfer" of the Municipal Casino. The resolution formally ends Infante's contract as Casino manager, a role she held with an extension until December 2025. Simultaneously, she has been appointed manager of Purchases until December 31, 2026, with a comparable salary and benefits.

Despite the change in her primary role, Infante will remain involved in tasks related to the casino's transition. The IMM aims to ensure a "smooth transition" and maintain administrative continuity during the change in oversight. This transition process has been ongoing, with Infante previously explaining operational challenges at the Casino Parque Hotel.

Infante had previously noted that the casino's low occupancy, around 20%, was linked to a lack of promotion, a decision aligned with departmental administration guidelines. She also highlighted operational difficulties, including staffing shortages in key areas and reduced operating hours. These issues were exacerbated by personnel matters, such as disciplinary actions against three employees and the impending retirement of five others. The reopening of table games was deemed unfeasible due to the costs associated with maintaining them.