The council originally proposed no changes to the policy, which allows up to one gambling venue per 1000 people.
Waitaki has capped that at a maximum of 20 venues. At present, there are 14.
The policy also limits the number of poker machines in the Waitaki district to 140. At present, there are 129.
One submission said, poker machines in the Waitaki district generated a turnover of almost $1 million in the last quarter of last year.
Four submissions considered yesterday suggested some changes, which Cr Jim Hopkins indicated had prompted ''a 360deg turn'' in his opinion.
Surprised by the amount of money put through poker machines, he had originally had sympathy with a submission from the the Salvation Army which proposed the council adopt a ''sinking-lid policy'' - not replacing any machines which were taken out and a ban on any additional venues or machines.
Cr Hopkins said submissions, from the Lion Foundation, St Patrick's Scouts of Oamaru, North Otago Cricket and the New Zealand Racing Board, showed the amount of money returned to community organisations from poker machine income.
Groups which administered poker machines made ''a substantial contribution'' to the community, at the same time paying a levy for problem gambling.
Organisations which had received grants ranged from government entities such as schools and the New Zealand Historic Places Trust through to churches, community groups and even the council's own Oamaru Opera House redevelopment.
He would support minor changes to the policy rather than more restrictions.
The council will make final decisions at its meeting on March 8.
The Salvation Army's submission by Oasis Centre problem gambling counsellor Judith Clarke said from October to December last year, $936,955 was gambled through poker machines in the Waitaki district.
''It represents a lot of money for a region with a population of around 20,000 and a median income of less than $20,000 a year,'' she said.
St Patrick's Scouts supported the existing policy, its representative Tony Brady pointing out proceeds benefitted many community groups.
North Otago Cricket wanted the restriction on the number of pokie machines for new outlets removed and the number for the district increased to 150.
Chairman Peter Cameron said the limit on machines was anti-competitive and limited the ability of community groups to raise funds.
''We watch with envy the development of facilities in other communities yet we restrict our funding options with punitive policies.''
