Pete Ricketts, Nebraska’s Governor, has reaffirmed his objections related to the gambling expansion on the territory of the Cornhusker state. He was quoted as saying that even if the proposed ballot was successful, the attempt to legalize casinos would have an extremely negative effect on the social expenses of the state.
Gov. Ricketts also added that gambling should not be considered a major driver for the economy. He went on to say that for every dollar collected from gambling activities, the state gives $3 for social services.
The Governor stated his opinion related to gambling during an event hosted by the South Sioux City Area Chamber of Commerce. Namely that’s the city Ho-Chunk Inc has eyed for establishing a horse track as well as a sports bar. Simulcast wagering options are also to be available.
In point of fact, Ho-Chunk is known as a company interested in legalizing casinos at horse tracks. It has provided financial aid to Keep the Money in Nebraska organization, supporting the idea of constitutional amendments concerning gambling expansion.
A statewide ballot is expected to take place in November, but Gov. Ricketts has firmly stated he was against gambling expansion. He even declared his support for an anti-gambling group intended to prevent the casino legalization.
Gov. Ricketts supported his thesis that casinos would not be beneficial to the economy with the argument that as far as sales taxes were concerned, these tend to drop in states where casinos were legal as compared to counties that are yet to legalize gambling. He also clarified that he would continue to oppose the gambling expansion although it remains uncertain as to whether he would be supported by a group of lobbyists or not.
Proponents of gambling expansion say local players usually visit Iowa-based casinos, so it would be favorable to the economy if they spend their money at a Nebraska-based venue. In addition, casino expansion is expected to lead to job openings.
As for the track, that is to be located in South Sioux City, it is to be built no matter what the outcome of the referendum would be. That was confirmed by Alexcia Boggs, director of development of Ho-Chunk.
Ho-Chunk intends to establish a new track with bleachers as well as a spacious building that is to spread over 6,000 square feet. The Nebraska Racing Commission is yet to issue a license, but the first race is expected to be run in the fall of 2016. As for the restaurant, the event center, and the bar, they should be completed within a year.
