Legislators should say no to casino
To Gov. Blagojevich and state leaders:
I'll be direct and to the point. I cannot sit back and be quiet any longer. Lake County and especially the City of Waukegan does not need a casino.
The state of Illinois needs leaders that can put away their differences and do what is right for the people. If not now, then when? While we have elected members on both sides of the aisle in Lake County that are pushing for a casino, they also have significant amounts of gaming money in their coffers. It is my opinion that they do not have the long-term best interest of the people in the forefront, only their own self-serving interests. They are not leaders even though in their minds they think they are.
Other states have been able to increase jobs and economic opportunities for business, why not Illinois? Before you pass any proposed legislation with gaming included, ask yourself if this is the best you can do? Are you a visionary or reactionary? Increased gaming is the easy way out, but at what cost? The people are fed up with the bickering in Springfield with no results. If Illinois wants to be considered a state where our leaders are known for their innovative and creative ways of finding solutions instead of corruption and jailed ex-officials, then now is the time to act. Again, I ask, if not now, then when?
I have had the privilege of serving my constituency as Supervisor of Shields Township for over 12 years. I represent the most diverse township in the state, from Lake Forest to North Chicago, and the last thing we need in Lake County is a casino. The people who can afford to go and lose money gambling will not go to Waukegan and the people who can least afford to lose will be the first in line.
The people will support leaders who have integrity and are responsible and innovative in finding long-term solutions that benefit all citizens of Illinois. With the gaming industry pouring millions of dollars into campaign coffers, I encourage you to resist the temptation to bend to their will and do what is in the best interest for those you serve. The gaming industry certainly won't look out for our best interest.
Five years ago, there were four townships and one municipality in Lake County that held non-binding referendums asking the voters if they wanted a casino in Lake County. All five, including Shields Township, answered in a resounding voice "No." Do not sell-out the people to the lucrative allure of gaming to solve the economic problems of our state.
I encourage you to listen to the people because it is their interests that you're gambling with.
Charles Fitzgerald
Supervisor
Shields Township