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[title]Where do you stand on allowing a casino within the city limits?
Braun “I would like to initiate a dialogue about the challenges and opportunities this could create.”
Caster “I know this is a sore spot for many people, but if we can make good decisions on how we implement gambling within city limits, it could really help our economy. And let’s be real, we already have gambling within city limits…it’s called the lottery!”
Chico “I would be open to discussing the idea because of the substantial economic development that will come with such a program, including jobs and tax revenues…however, the impact on the neighborhood cultural scene, local and convention businesses, public safety, as well as individuals suffering with gambling addiction, would have to be thoroughly discussed….”
Collins “I think the people that it would attract are the people who are already broke. So that’s gonna create more problems. On the other hand, it would bring revenue to the city, but at what cost? I’d only want it if tourists could only go.”
Cooper “Absolutely. I would bring casinos to Chicago.”
Del Valle “I would prefer to generate revenue for the city through other means rather than a casino.”
Emanuel “Lawmakers in Springfield return to this issue year after year—my priority would be ensuring that the city gains a net economic benefit and that the revenue stream of any gaming within the city would benefit Chicagoans and not drain funds from our city. A casino is not a panacea—we need to create good-paying jobs in Chicago in sustainable industries.”
Hendon “I’ve already proposed putting two riverboats in Chicago. … Riverboats, when strategically placed and with an economic development program for the surrounding community, can be a win-win in terms of jobs, in terms of businesses.”
Meeks “I oppose it.”
Tyrrell “If the majority wants it. Fine.”
Walls “I oppose casinos within the city limits. Economically deprived people visit the casinos not for recreation, but out of desperation.”
White “I see tens of thousands of Chicago citizens going to Indiana, Joliet, Milwaukee and other areas where gambling is legal, and Chicago business could use the money spent in those areas at our own restaurants, hotels and local establishments.”