Racino discussed in public hearing in Biddeford, Maine
October 5, 2010,by John Pawlak, the U.S. Trotting Association
Columbus, OH — A crowd estimated by press reports at 150, representing both sides of the question, gathered at a public hearing in Biddeford, Maine on Monday evening (Oct. 4) to discuss a proposed racino that would replace Scarborough Downs and be located in Biddeford.
The discussion came four weeks before local voters will be asked to approve the project, which is being proposed by Scarborough Downs and Ocean Properties, Ltd. — the latter founded by prominent Standardbred owner Tom Walsh.
The three-hour session featured citizen comments about jobs, gaming addition, crime and morality.
Development of the racino, which according to developers will bring 500 full-time jobs and $5 million in direct annual revenue to Biddeford, hinges on more than the November vote of that town’s citizens: A state law permitting racinos approved by local option had a sunset clause, and action from the Maine Legislature or a citizen ballot initiative would also be needed to advance the project.
Twice before, in 2003 and 2008, citizens of Scarborough voted against granting permission to build a racino at Scarborough, which has left the track to pursue other possible locations.
- Ballot referendum in Maine could lead to new racino (Thursday, August 19, 2010)
The Biddeford, Maine City Council voted this past Tuesday to put a referendum on the local November ballot: The question is whether Biddeford residents want a harness racing racino located in their town.
- New racino is proposed in Maine (Thursday, September 30, 2010)
The owners of Scarborough Downs and its partner, Ocean Properties, Ltd., are proposing the construction of a $125 million racino complex to be located near Biddeford, Maine.
- Anti-casino group forces meeting in Maine (Saturday, October 23, 2010)
Members of a group called Citizens Against a Bad Deal – No Racino, have forced the city of Biddeford, Maine to call a general meeting on the proposed Biddeford Downs racino project.
- Voters say “yes” to welcoming Scarborough Downs to a new home (Tuesday, November 2, 2010)
Residents of the City of Biddeford, Maine have said they will welcome Scarborough Downs and its planned racino.