SIOUX CITY (AP) - A proposal that would have banned smoking at Argosy Gaming Co. casino here has apparently died after the mayor and two councilmen said they would oppose it.

Mayor Mike Hobart and two council members, Jim Rixner and Aaron Rochester said Friday they would not support the measure proposed by councilman Brent Hoffman.

Councilman Dave Ferris said he couldn't vote on the issue because of a conflict of interest. Ferris owns a restaurant covered by the statewide smoking ban passed by the Legislature.

Hobart said a city ordinance might not withstand a court challenge because the new law passed by the Legislature, which becomes effective July 1, exempts Iowa's 17 state-licensed casinos. The state ban outlaws smoking in bars and most workplaces.

Rixner said the ordinance was rendered unnecessary since Argosy's management promises to continue to monitor air quality, set aside nonsmoking areas on the gaming floor and make other changes.

Rochester said he's never favored a city ordinance banning smoking.

After Friday's developments, Hoffman said he plans to table his proposed ordinance.

"I'd like to commend Argosy's management for their efforts to meet the goals of the state law without a government mandate," Hoffman said. "While that may not please all business owners similarly affected, it's a positive solution, and I intend to table my proposal for an ordinance."

The general manager of the Argosy casino, Kees Eder, said in a letter to the city dated Friday that concerns of the city can be addressed without the need for an ordinance.

"Our objective is to work to meet the purpose of the Smoke Free Air Act without a government mandate." Eder wrote.

He said the casino will continue to monitor air quality and make data available to the city, will enhance existing air filtering systems and plan for nonsmoking areas on the gaming floor.