MacMillan Accuses Melnyk Of Bullying

Published: June 24, 2013 03:14 pm EDT

Ottawa-area horseman John MacMillan has issued comments in regard to Eugene Melnyk's push to have casino expansion lured away from the Rideau Carleton Raceway.

It was reported earlier this month that Melnyk, one of Canada's highest-profile thoroughbred owners, is against Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson's motion to deem the raceway the only Ottawa-area location acceptable for casino expansion.

Melnyk, who is also the owner of the NHL's Ottawa Senators, had been eagerly awaiting the ability to come forth with a proposal to bring casino expansion to the area adjacent to Scotiabank Place, where the 'Sens' play their home games. Mayor Watson's new stance on the casino expansion issue has dealt a severe blow to any chance of a non-raceway casino in the Ottawa area.

In light of the situation, Melnyk has stated that he is going to have to reconsider his investment in the Greater Ottawa Area going forward.

MacMillan, who is the executive director of the National Capital Region Harness Horse Association, has been bothered by Melnyk's comments on the issue.

“One man, who doesn’t even live in the city, shouldn’t be using a bully pulpit to control council,” MacMillan has reportedly said via statement. “It should be up to all Ottawa residents to decide what’s best for the city.”

In addition to owning racing horses and his role with the NCRHHA, MacMillan is also part of Casino Choice Ottawa.

(With files from the Ottawa Business Journal)

Related Stories

MacMillan Calls For Choice

Tags
Have something to say about this? Log in or create an account to post a comment.