Watson Turns Back On Racing In Ottawa

JimWatson--.jpg
Published: September 26, 2012 12:20 pm EDT

Tuesday, October 2 is an important date for the local horse-racing industry in the Ottawa region, as that will be the evening in which an Ottawa City Council committee will hear public feedback on the casino Mayor Jim Watson is now closer to backing for the city.

In a letter issued to members of the Ottawa City Council, Watson explained, going forward, what the process which could lead to an Ottawa casino will be like. He outlined a two-step process, the first process of which will begin October 2 at the Finance and Economic Development Committee (FEDCO) meeting.

"At this time we would consider the staff report, to be released on September 25, which includes a direction to staff to look at economic benefits of a gaming facility," wrote Watson, who went on to explains that City Council could then approve the staff report by October 10.

If the report is approved on October 10, Watson would then turn around and inform the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. that the City of Ottawa is a willing host community for the introduction of a casino within its borders. The second stage of the two-part process would then take place in 2013, when the OLG would present its 'prospective proponent' and location for the casino.

Continuing to explain the process, Watson's letter states that after the city is approached by the OLG in 2013, the topic would again be addressed with the public via 'public delegations.'

After having been a solid and loyal revenue producer in the area for years and years, Rideau Carleton Raceway would take a massive hit if the OLG is able to succeed in getting a casino erected in Ottawa.

Watson's letter appears below.


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