Following the province’s decision to not let Ottawa have two gaming zones, the city’s finance and economic development committee voted 10-1 today to support the Rideau Carleton Raceway as “the only location acceptable” for an expanded gaming facility.
The committee was all set to vote on whether to have Mayor Jim Watson officially ask the province for two sites. But on the morning of the meeting, Watson received a message from Charles Sousa, minister of finance, who said the province and the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation would not permit an additional zone.
The committee instead voted to support the raceway, with the current 1,250 slots and the approved expansion for 21 gaming tables.
Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk, who has been touting the Canadian Tire Centre as a good locale, unveiled his plans for a new casino at the meeting.
Melnyk said he plans to construct a “world class” entertainment, retail, and commercial district at the casino site to compete with the formidable Casino Lac-Leamy. Ottawa is four times the size of Gatineau, but generates less in gaming revenue, said Melnyk.
He said if he lands the deal, the city would have his assurance that social risks stemming from an expanded casino would be mitigated with the help of public health.
Melnyk made his appearance, ironically, on the 10th anniversary of his ownership of the Ottawa Senators. Since taking the reigns of the team, he said he has committed $87 million to the community. He challenged the city to find another potential casino developer who has demonstrated a stronger track record of community investment.
Melnyk said he’d consider a form of partnership with the Rideau Carleton if the latter gets the casino.
Melnyk, who has criticized council’s decision to tout the raceway, expressed disappointment at the committee’s final decision.
A recent report by Ottawa Public Health highlighted the social costs of a new casino. Several delegates at today’s meeting addressed these concerns, including Paul Welsh, executive director of Rideauwood Addiction and Family Services. Welsh told the committee that there is a high suicide rate among problem gamblers, with 20 to 25 per cent reporting attempts at suicide. Forty-four per cent of problem gamblers said they turned to crime.
The committee approved a motion from Knoxdale-Merivale Coun. Keith Egli to implement public health measures if a casino is approved. They include limiting casino hours of operation, reducing maximum bet size, and prohibiting ATMs and alcohol service on the gambling floor.
Gloucester-Southgate Coun. Diane Deans was the only one to oppose casino expansion. Still, she commended Egli for his recommendations.
Before the vote was called, Watson said that opinion will be divided on this issue, but council has to move forward and approve the motion or council will have no parameters of where the casino will be.
The casino debate will reach full council on Wednesday.