Tax increase better than video gambling
We have been residents of the city of St. Charles for 41 years and made a decision to not move from here when we retired because St. Charles has been a community that valued a positive, healthy and safe lifestyle for its citizens.
Allowing video gambling to be a part of our community does not fit that lifestyle. It is making money on people losing money and, unfortunately, often the people who can least afford this which can be to the detriment of their families.
The argument that adults should be allowed to make their own decisions about this is shallow at best. We all know that is why we don't have bars open until 4 a.m., strip clubs, etc. Just because people can choose doesn't mean our community should offer those things that are detrimental to the lifestyle the majority of our residents value.
From what we understand about the city's financial stability, there is no need to resort to video gambling as a revenue source to close budget gaps or save jobs. We would rather see a slight increase in taxes, if truly needed, than have video gambling brought to St. Charles.
We believe the least that could be done by the council is to offer a referendum, survey or focus groups to determine if this is something our citizens want not just what the tavern/restaurant/club owners want.
The St. Charles City Council represents all the citizens, not just those whose businesses would benefit from the loss of people's money through gambling. We would hope that no one wants to rush this decision. Let's find out if video gambling is something St. Charles citizens want as part of their community.
Mike and Betsy Penny
St. Charles