On Wednesday (February 14), the Ontario Ministry of Finance issued a statement explaining that it remains committed to the continued operations of Ajax Downs and Quarter Horse racing in Ontario.

The Ministry’s statement came in light of multiple mainstream media reports in regard to what the future holds for Ajax Downs.

The Ministry of Finance statement explains that, “No decisions have been made regarding slots at Ajax Downs. Regardless of what happens, we remain committed to the continued operations of Ajax Downs and Quarter Horse racing in Ontario. Our government recognizes that horse racing is an important part of Ontario’s heritage and plays an important role in creating jobs in communities all across the province.”

On Wednesday, Ajax Council had vented its frustration in regard to contents of a media report that was published last week. The council stated that it did not want to learn about the future of the slot machines at Ajax Downs via reports in the media.

It has been reported that, earlier this week, Ajax council unanimously endorsed a third-party review of casino proposals in Ajax and Pickering. The review would include a cost-benefit analysis, according to the report. “We need to see those numbers,” Wards 1 and 2 regional Coun. Shaun Collier was quoted as saying. “I’m sure the Ajax site will stand head and shoulders over other sites.”

Ajax MPP Joe Dickson also issued a statement on the situation, explaining, “I agree with Ajax Council that the Ajax Downs facility is one of the most important racetracks in Ontario. And while no decisions with regards to the slots have been made at this time, regardless of what happens we’re committed to the continued operations of Ajax Downs. The Premier and I recently met with the parties involved in order to come up with a plan to make that happen. Since my childhood, I have had an avid interest in horse racing. I recall as a four-year-old walking up the Picov property with my grandmother, where I saw my first horse race. I was hooked and have been involved ever since.”

Ajax Mayor Steve Parish has made it known that the Town of Ajax will fight to keep casino gaming at Ajax Downs.