Opinion

Slots at track would turn it into a casino

Posted February 15, 2008 10:00 pm

Arlington Park racetrack is one of six remaining horse racing venues in the state of Illinois.

Those six racetracks are controlled by three groups which each year get incentives and tax breaks from the legislature and a percentage of off-track racing proceeds.

The tax revenue from horse racing is nominal when considered with the perks and incentives given the tracks.

The interest in horse racing was eroding long before casino gambling came into vogue.

While it may be an economic engine for Arlington Heights, it will cost the taxpayers of Illinois dollars that could be spent elsewhere.

The interest in horse racing has been replaced by more than 20 motor sports tracks. The interest in motor sports continues to grow as horse racing diminishes.

Putting slot machines in Arlington Park will be the first step into turning it into a year-round casino.

John Culloton

Chicago

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