More than $2 million has been poured into Richmond's casino debate. On Tuesday, the voters decide
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Richmond voters will decide on Tuesday whether to permit a casino in the city. The owners of the project have spent $1.9 million in campaigning for the casino. Organized opponents have raised only $145,000. Civil rights groups, business leaders and city and state officials are advocating for it. Some politicians, activists and civic association and business people are voting against it, fearing its negative effects.
Richmond's voters will decide on Tuesday whether to approve a casino. The state law allows sports betting and slots-like gambling. Community activists and organizers released a video essay series in opposition to the casino in a paid promotional article with RVA Mag. The political action committee Vote No Against Richmond Casino paid for the article. Former grocery store magnate Jim Ukrop donated $50,000 to a campaign supporting the project. Three former city council members also spoke in the video series.
Eight of the nine members of Buffalo's council have endorsed the One Casino project. Councilwoman Katherine Jordan is the only one who voted against it. She is focusing on electing Democratic candidates on the ballot. Tavarris Spinks, who lost against her in last year's election, is concerned about the potential for problem gambling. He cites research studies that show poor people who live near casinos are more susceptible to gambling addiction. The casino will include 55 acres of green space, 15 restaurants, a performance venue and a TV and radio studio.
Minor didn't participate in the branch's vote on whether to endorse the casino project. The Crusade for Voters president Jonathan Davis says the group's research committee had initially recommended not taking a position on the project, but members felt strongly enough to request a vote to end the debate this fall. Urban One agreed to pay $25.5 million to the city and $16 million for local charities, city agencies and Richmond Public Schools if the referendum passes. Some critics question whether a Black-owned casino will benefit the Black community.
Richmond voters will decide on Tuesday whether to approve a casino project. Some residents in the Fan District and Stratford Hills area are still opposed to a gambling resort. Liggins is not planning to lobby to change the state casino law if the project fails. If the casino passes, pre-construction work will begin this spring. The resort is expected to open by 2024. If it doesn't, it will be built in Henrico or Chesterfield. More than $2 million has been spent on the issue. It's hoped the voters decide yes on casino.
