Mulder: Village must save racetrack
The Village of Arlington Heights treasures Arlington Park as an integral part of its history, identity and economic base. Arlington Park brings international recognition to Arlington Heights and has been a supportive business neighbor financially assisting many charitable organizations over the years.
The Arlington Heights Village Board recognizes that with a viable and financially sound Arlington Park, we are a stronger village. Conversely, this board is acutely aware of the negative impact and additional challenges ... the village would face without Arlington Park. ... It is because of its significance to the village and the state of Illinois that throughout the years, Arlington Heights village boards have repeatedly expressed support for Arlington Park and a strong desire to help keep it viable.
The Village of Arlington Heights, the state of Illinois and Arlington Park are currently faced with unprecedented economic and financial challenges. Our lawmakers are considering legislation that would allow up to 1,200 video gaming positions on Arlington Park property. While the details of any plans to allow another form of gaming at Arlington Park would be critical to determining possible additional revenue, it is equally critical that we do not misstep and lose Arlington Park. To preserve Arlington Park and all that it provides, we must support actions ... that are deemed necessary to preserve the viability of thoroughbred racing in Illinois and Arlington Heights.
The board strongly encourages its residents to contact their state legislators to express their opinions.