If track closes, will area suffer? No

Regarding the issue of slots for Arlington Park, there have been claims of dire consequences to befall Illinois and the surrounding area should the racetrack close. Oh, if only Clarence, the angel from “It’s a Wonderful Life,” could take us back in time to show us what life would be like without the track. But wait. We can go back and see.

In 1985 Arlington Park tragically burned to the ground. For four full years thereafter there was no racetrack. And not only did the surrounding area not decline during that time, it actually thrived. The Village of Arlington Heights’ own demographic data will show that property assessments increased, as did sales tax receipts which more than offset the “admissions tax” they obviously did not receive.

In fact the only thing that seemed to decrease during that period was the unemployment rate.

Sure, some will argue that today is different from in 1985. Yes it is. For one, the track today is unable to support a hotel right next to it. That should tell you something about the contribution of the track to the surrounding area today compared to when it burned down.

Secondly, that same point also indicates that most of their gamblers are probably local, meaning that it could likely be a net drain on the local economy. Perhaps without the track those dollars would be spent on local businesses rather than being shipped to Louisville, Ky. Just imagine the outflow of dollars as a casino!

Now, don’t get me wrong. I too think Arlington Park has been an asset and would rather it remain. But ask yourself just how much it would affect you personally if it were too close? If you’re like me, probably not much. I’ve been there once before, and likely so have you.

Mark Evenson

Palatine