Growing Opposition to Expnaded Gambling

Washington Co. Opponents of Slots Meet in Vernon
Washington County - Some Washington County locals believe expanding gambling at Ebro Greyhound Park may lead to a higher crime rate and higher suicide statistics.
Reporter: Amber Southard

Washington County - Some Washington County locals believe expanding gambling at Ebro Greyhound Park may lead to a higher crime rate and higher suicide statistics.

A town hall style meeting was held Thursday night at Vernon City Hall on the issue. Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi issued an opinion Thursday that says the state can't issue a slot machine license to the dog track owners even if voters approve them in a referendum.

Those who oppose the slot machines were pleased to hear her opinion. Bondi said a law allowing slots at pari-mutuel facilities through countywide referendums applies only to Miami - Dade and Broward Counties.

Bondi says a new law or constitutional amendment would have to be passed in order to allow the licenses to be issued in other counties. Bondi's ruling also applies to the barrel racing facility in Gretna. This is just Bondi's opinion and is not legally binding.

A group called Citizens for Positive Development of Washington County are encouraged by Bondi's statement.

"Our committee was pleased with that because this looks like it is not going to be able to be put into the county even though voters may pass it," said Alcus Brock.

Thursday night Washington County Sheriff Bobby Haddock announced he and the sheriffs office oppose the slots. Stating it could have the potential to raise crime rates in the county. Ebro officials want to open up the park to 2,000 slot machines..

"We do need jobs in Washington County we have an high unemployment rate we have a number of our folks who are in bad need, but we need real jobs that are lasting jobs that will produce something of worth. Not jobs that are going to be offset by tremendous cost socially, criminally, in our county," said Tim Patton.