Arlington Hts. should embrace slots at track

Trustees, the answer to holding taxes is racing past you!

Arlington Park racecourse is a jewel in the crown of Arlington Heights. The track provides large revenues that help keep taxes lower. The receipts this year were down more than 33 percent because the lower purses are drawing weaker horses and fewer tax dollars for Arlington Heights.

Slot machines at the track would revitalize the sport and increase tax dollars as slots have done throughout the racing industry. Slots at racetracks have increased revenue in the communities, added jobs and police with no increase in crime.

It is time for the village trustees to explain the positives of adding slots to Arlington Park. The current state candidates for public office have said they would put personal bias aside and vote the conscience of the residents of Arlington Heights. The local elected public officials need to do the same.

The trustees know the positive effect that adding slots at the track will have on the local economy. Presentation of the facts should be a responsibility of the local elected officials.

The economic health of the entire community must be considered. Personal biases of a small vocal group (many of whom are not Arlington Hts. residents) don't necessarily reflect the will of 79,000 residents.

Ask the residents if they want higher taxes or more jobs, closed or open businesses, fewer or more visitors to the local economy, one or all local projects completed? (the Sheraton Hotel and the Teen Center etc.)

Slot machines at the track will provide that revenue. Stand up trustees, if racing goes much lower the track could close. What is the plan to replace that lost revenue ... cut services and raise taxes?

Tough to get re-elected on that platform.

Alan P., Bridget G. Murdoch

Arlington Heights