During a financial climate in which state budget deficits are more common than not, Minnesota thoroughbred racetrack Canterbury Park may have made the state government an offer it can't refuse

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According to a report on shakopeenews.com, the racetrack has offered the State of Minnesota a one-time, up front $100 million fee payable if the track this year receives a license to open a racino.

“Obviously, the state is in a dire financial situation and this upfront license fee money could go towards helping fix the budget crisis this year," Racino Now President Dick Day was quoted as saying. "Additionally, the racino would provide an estimated $200 million in revenue for the state every budget cycle."

(With files from shakopeenews.com)