Anti-video gambling vote solves nothing
Winfield's government has a revenue problem. This summer citizens heard about disbanding police, unfunded pensions and crumbling infrastructure. No problems or solutions are free from controversy. Paying for government means spending less, taxing more or growing.
To spend less Winfield may contract police services to the DuPage County Sheriff. Taxing more means a 100 percent increase in the village portion of our property tax bills. Growing requires new thinking about commercializing Roosevelt Road. Only one solution taxes money from the willing while increasing business in Winfield town center.
That solution is video gaming.
Video gaming isn't a complete fix to Winfield's budget woes. Depending on whom you ask, village revenues would fall between $45,000 and $91,000 per year. These revenue projections understate the value to town center entrepreneurs of providing a safe, legal form of entertainment for those so inclined. Video gaming will drive clients to our establishments. While they entertain themselves with $2 bets, they will be creating sales taxes for Winfield on the food and drink that they consume. Banning gaming in Winfield won't save anyone's souls, they'll gamble in the next town and Winfield will be out the revenue.
As the owner and operator of John's Restaurant and Tavern, I recognize that video gaming is one more reason for a client to come in my doors. In these tough economic times, Winfield's government and restaurateurs can use all the help they can get. If we ever hope to realize the vision of a thriving town center we need to permit pro-business regulations like video gaming. Additionally, the $91,000 of revenue Winfield would earn from gaming won't come from the homeowner's pocket.
On Nov. 6, the choice is in the voter's hand.
I say, "Game On."
John Karwoski
Winfield
