Casinos suck life out of communities

Casinos suck life out of communities

This November a referendum will appear on the New York state ballot proposing a change to the state constitution which would drastically increase casino gambling across the state. Local communities would have little voice in whether a casino is established in their area or not.

This referendum should be voted down for many reasons but a primary reason is the misconception that casinos attract new customers to the existing local businesses. The truth is that casinos actually suck the life out of the local shops and restaurants in the surrounding towns. This is because casino operators are interested keeping gamblers and potential gamblers on their premises so they provide on-site restaurants, clothing boutiques, gift shops, hair and nail salons and hotel rooms. Local stores and restaurants are not only forced to compete against these shops but they must also compete against the mega-dollars the gambling industry invests in advertising the casino and the "full casino experience."

The local business owners in towns all across New York state work hard to deliver quality products and services. They are a critical part of any local economy. The establishment of a casino culture would not only dramatically increase the financial challenges small businesses must face but could also destroy the charm and uniqueness of our smaller towns.

To support real economic stability for our local communities and businesses, vote “NO” on the constitutional referendum that would increase casino gambling across New York state.

Joyce Hunt
Bearsville


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